By: Thaimu Bai Sesay
In the wake of the recent enactment of the Social Protection Act 2025 by the Sierra Leone House of Parliament, a high-level delegation from the World Bank, UNICEF, and NaCSA has paid a courtesy visit to the Minister of Employment, Labour, and Social Security, Mohamed Rahman Swarray, at his office in New England Ville on Monday 27th January 2025.
The visit aimed to congratulate the Minister and his team on the historic achievement and to discuss the next steps for the effective implementation of the new law.
Dr. Abu Kargbo, representing the World Bank, expressed heartfelt congratulations to the Minister, commending his relentless efforts in ensuring the successful passage of the Social Protection Act.
He noted that the World Bank has long awaited the enactment of this law, highlighting its importance in enhancing the country’s social protection systems. Dr. Kargbo further disclosed that the World Bank, alongside UNICEF, has developed a framework for the launch of the new Act. He mentioned that they expect high-level participation, with the President or Vice President potentially attending the launch event.
As part of the ongoing collaboration, Dr. Kargbo proposed the establishment of a technical working committee to help map out a clear roadmap for the official launch. Additionally, he informed the Minister that the World Bank is ready to provide funding for the second phase of cash transfer payments to the elderly, as well as support the development of the National Ageing Policy into a formal bill.
Madam Munar, representing UNICEF, also congratulated the Minister on the successful enactment of the Social Protection Act. She raised a key question regarding the steps taken so far in establishing the authority mandated by the Act, stressing its significance for the law’s full implementation.
In attendance was Senior Director Idris Turay of the National Social Protection Secretariat (NaCSA), who also took the opportunity to commend the Minister and his team for their unwavering commitment to passing the Social Protection Act. Mr. Turay emphasised the need to fully understand the law’s provisions to ensure its successful implementation and long-term impact.
In his response, Minister Mohamed Rahman Swarray expressed gratitude to the visiting delegation, thanking them for their consistent support throughout the development of the new law. He reassured the team that the Ministry, under his leadership, is fully committed to collaborating with all development partners, especially the World Bank and UNICEF, to ensure the successful implementation of the Social Protection Act.
The meeting concluded with a strong commitment from all parties to establish a technical working committee that will oversee the launch and development of the regulations necessary for the effective enforcement of the Social Protection Act 2025.
This collaborative effort marks a significant step forward in the country’s social protection landscape, aiming to improve the welfare of vulnerable populations and ensure sustainable, inclusive development.