By: Audrey Raymonda John
The Ministry of Employment, Labour and Social Security (MELSS), in collaboration with its tripartite partners the Sierra Leone Labour Congress (SLLC) and the Sierra Leone Employers Federation (SLEF) and with support from the International Organization for Migration (IOM), has commenced regional consultations aimed at reviewing the National Labour Migration Policy, initially developed in 2018.
The first consultation session was held in Kenema City on Monday, June 23, 2025, for stakeholders from the Eastern Region. The event brought together participants from both public and private institutions across the region.
At the workshop, the team from MELSS presented key thematic areas, including:
The Objectives of the Consultation, selected provisions from the Overseas Employment and Migrant Workers Act, 2023, highlights from the National Labour Migration Policy, 2018
Statements were delivered by representatives from MELSS, IOM, SLLC, and SLEF. In her address, Laura Nicol, IOM’s representative, emphasized the dual nature of migration its role in fostering economic growth and the risks it poses if poorly managed. Similar views were echoed by other speakers, underscoring the need for robust migration governance.
Mr. A.J.P. Lebbie, representing MELSS, provided a comprehensive overview of labour migration governance in Sierra Leone, highlighting the strides made by the government in collaboration with various stakeholders.
The session concluded with group discussions, during which participants contributed recommendations for the policy review process.
This regional consultation marks the beginning of a nationwide effort to gather diverse perspectives to ensure the revised National Labour Migration Policy addresses current realities and challenges. The goal is to create a well-rounded framework that supports workers, employers, and the country’s overall development.
The Ministry team concluded this phase of the consultations with a final session in Port Loko, covering the Northern Region, signalling the end of the regional outreach.