By: Elizabeth A. Kaine
In a significant move to combat child labor, the United States and Sierra Leone have joined forces to protect the nation’s most vulnerable youth. A U.S. Department of Labor delegation, led by the Deputy Chief of Mission of the U.S. Embassy, met with Sierra Leone’s Minister of Employment, Labour, and Social Security, Hon. Mohamed Rahman Swaray, on September 17, 2024.
The meeting marked a new chapter in the partnership between the two nations, aimed at eradicating child labor and improving labor conditions in Sierra Leone. Minister Swaray emphasized his country’s commitment to eliminating child labor, citing the importance of international cooperation with the U.S. Department of Labor.
“We are resolute in our efforts to protect Sierra Leone’s children from exploitation,” Minister Swaray stated. “Our partnership with the U.S. will strengthen our labor inspection systems, uphold labor standards, and provide vital vocational training for our youth.”
The U.S. delegation pledged technical assistance to enhance Sierra Leone’s labor inspection capabilities and enforce labor laws. Discussions also focused on workforce development, recognizing the critical role vocational training plays in equipping youth with skills for sustainable employment.
“This partnership goes beyond combating child labor,” Minister Swaray noted. “It’s about fostering youth employment, enforcing labor laws, and promoting long-term economic growth through workforce development.”
As Sierra Leone continues its efforts to address child trafficking, this collaboration offers hope for a brighter future for the nation’s youth.
