World Bank, UNICEF Visit Employment Minister After Social Protection Act 2025 Enacted

Following the enactment of the Social Protection Act on January 23, 2025, a delegation from the World Bank, UNICEF, and the National Commission for Social Action (NaCSA) paid a courtesy visit to the Minister of Employment, Labour and Social Security, Mr. Mohamed Rahman Swarray, at his New England Ville office.

The meeting aimed to congratulate the Minister and discuss strategies for the effective implementation of the new law.

Dr. Abu Kargbo, representing the World Bank, lauded the Ministry for its dedication to achieving the legislation, which has long been anticipated. Dr. Kargbo announced that the World Bank and UNICEF had jointly developed a framework to launch the Act, envisioning high-level participation, including attendance by the President or Vice President. He emphasized the importance of setting up a technical working committee to chart the roadmap for the Act’s implementation and disclosed that the World Bank has secured additional funding for the second phase of cash transfer payments to senior citizens. Funds are also allocated to support transforming the National Ageing Policy into legislation.

Madam Munar of UNICEF sought updates on the establishment of the authority mandated by the Act, describing it as a critical feature of the new legislation. She emphasized UNICEF’s commitment to ensuring the successful enforcement of the law.

Senior Director of the National Social Protection Secretariat at NaCSA, Idris Turay, commended the Ministry’s efforts and highlighted the need for a thorough understanding of the new law to ensure effective execution.

Minister Mohamed Rahman Swarray expressed gratitude for the collaborative efforts of development partners during the drafting and enactment stages. He reaffirmed the Ministry’s readiness to work closely with all stakeholders, particularly the World Bank and UNICEF, to ensure the smooth implementation of the Act.

The meeting concluded with an agreement to establish a technical working committee to finalize preparations for the Act’s launch and develop regulations to guide its enforcement. All parties committed to continued collaboration to ensure the success of the new Social Protection Act.