The Director General of the National Social Security and Insurance Trust (NASSIT), Mohamed Fuad Daboh, has officially presented the draft policy also referred to as the blueprint for the Informal Sector Scheme to the Minister of Labour and Social Security, Mohamed Rahman Swarray. The presentation took place at the Ministry’s Conference Hall in New England Ville, Freetown.
The blueprint represents an important step in expanding social security coverage to informal sector workers across Sierra Leone.
In his statement, DG Daboh emphasized the importance of the scheme in promoting social inclusion and securing the livelihoods of workers outside the formal employment sector.
“We are here to present the blueprint for the payment switch of the informal sector,” DG Daboh said.
He disclosed that since Mr. Swarray’s appointment by His Excellency President Julius Maada Bio, Mr. Swarray made it clear that developing a scheme for the informal sector was a priority.
He noted that the draft policy was developed through nationwide consultations with key stakeholders and informal workers from diverse backgrounds. “My team has gone the length and breadth of this country to gather views and ensure this scheme reflects the true needs of our people, though the policy is still in draft form, but am sure it will represent the will of the people,’’ Dabor stated.
The DG underscored that since it’s reflects the voices of the people it is expected to yield long term benefits. He expressed optimism that the Ministry would now guide the policy through the legal and legislative process to become law.
Receiving the blueprint document, Minister Swarray commended NASSIT for the initiative and reaffirmed the government’s dedication to social protection for all workers. “Under the leadership of DG Daboh, NASSIT has addressed critical social protection challenges,” he said.
He pointed out that Sierra Leone is now ahead in enrolling an informal sector scheme, and we are taking practical steps to make it a reality.
He further pledged to work closely with the Law Officers Department to ensure the policy is legally sound and ready for implementation, while also congratulating the Steering Committee for their diligent efforts.
The Minister concluded by noting that President Bio would be pleased with the progress made, describing the policy as a key blueprint for national development.
