By: Saidu Jalloh
Sierra Leone’s Minister of Employment and Labour, Mohamed Rahman Swarray, has reaffirmed the government’s commitment to strengthening workers’ rights, expanding social protection, and promoting job creation as the country marked International Workers’ Day.
Speaking at the national celebration, Swarray described the occasion as not only a time to reflect on labour issues but also an opportunity to celebrate the resilience and contributions of Sierra Leonean workers to national development.
“We celebrate the workforce of Sierra Leone—your resilience, your dedication, and your invaluable contributions to our national development,” he said, noting that workers remain the backbone of key sectors, including agriculture, construction, public service, and the growing digital economy.
The minister emphasized that the government’s development agenda places workers at its core, highlighting ongoing reforms aimed at promoting decent work, social justice, and inclusive economic growth. He pointed to the Medium-Term National Development Plan (2024–2030) as a key driver of job creation, food security, and human capital development.
Swarray announced that the national minimum wage has been increased from Le800 to Le1,200, effective April 2026, following consultations with employers and labour unions, including the Sierra Leone Labour Congress.
He also revealed plans to expand pension and social protection coverage to informal sector workers, such as traders, artisans, fishermen, and market women, describing the move as a “historic step” toward inclusivity in the labour market.
On workplace safety, the minister disclosed that two key pieces of legislation—the Occupational Safety and Health Bill and the Workers Compensation Bill—will soon be presented to Parliament to strengthen employee protections.
“No job should cost a worker their health, their life, or their future,” Swarray stated.
Addressing global technological shifts, he warned that while digital platforms and artificial intelligence present new opportunities, they also pose risks such as job displacement and inequality. He stressed the importance of policies that protect workers while embracing innovation.
The minister further urged Sierra Leoneans to seek proper guidance from the Ministry before pursuing employment abroad, cautioning against irregular migration that could expose citizens to exploitation or conflict.
Swarray called on workers, employers, and development partners to collaborate in building a fair and resilient labour market. He encouraged trade unions to engage constructively and urged employers to view decent work as an investment rather than a cost.
“Together, government, workers, employers, and partners will build a labour market that is safe, inclusive, and future-proof,” he said.
The May Day event brought together government officials, labour leaders, representatives of the informal sector, and international partners to reflect on the future of work in Sierra Leone.