By Saidu Jalloh, Reporter D.S
Geneva, Switzerland – Hon. Mohamed Rahman Swaray, the Minister of Labour and Social Security of Sierra Leone, addressed the 113th Session of the International Labour Conference (ILC) on June 10, 2025, calling for stronger global partnerships and innovative strategies to combat informality in labor markets, particularly in developing countries.
In his speech, Minister Swaray emphasized the pressing need for global solidarity and technology-driven solutions to tackle informality, which affects over 80% of Sierra Leone’s workforce. “Informality is not just a labour market characteristic in Sierra Leone; it is a reality for the majority of our people,” he stated, addressing a diverse audience that included global leaders, labor organizations, employers, and civil society representatives. “From agriculture to small-scale industries, informality is both vibrant and precarious, leaving millions without social protection or access to opportunities available in the formal sector.”
The Minister also highlighted Sierra Leone’s recent milestone in hosting its first-ever National Labour Conference, which brought together a broad coalition of stakeholders to discuss the future of work in the country. This landmark event showcased the government’s commitment to engaging various partners in shaping labor policies.
To address the challenges of informality, Minister Swaray outlined three key areas of intervention by the Government of Sierra Leone. First, he spoke about Strengthening Social Protection Systems. The government is actively reforming its social security systems to better serve workers in the informal sector. Following an actuarial valuation in 2024, Sierra Leone is expanding coverage through digital payment systems and simplified enrollment processes. “Social protection is not a privilege—it is a right and a catalyst for formalization,” he affirmed.
Second, he discussed Leveraging Technology for Formalization. The government is implementing digital platforms, e-registration systems for businesses, mobile-based tax filing, and social protection enrollment apps to create pathways for informal workers and businesses to transition into the formal economy.
Lastly, Minister Swaray emphasized the importance of Promoting Labour Rights and Standards. The government is working closely with the Sierra Leone Labour Congress and the Employers’ Federation to improve compliance with labor laws and standards. Strengthened labor inspection systems and public awareness campaigns are central to this initiative, ensuring that formalization brings dignity, equity, and opportunity, rather than exploitation.
The International Labour Organisation (ILO) has been at the forefront of global efforts to promote decent work and social justice. The timing of the 113th ILC session is significant as economies worldwide navigate post-pandemic recovery and accelerate efforts toward the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), particularly SDG 8 on decent work and economic growth.
Sierra Leone’s interventions at the conference reflect the country’s commitment to aligning national efforts with global labor priorities, especially in driving innovation for inclusive economic transformation.
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