World Bank and UNICEF Visit Minister Swarray to Discuss Act Implementation

Following the enactment of the Social Protection Act on Thursday, January 23, 2025, by the Sierra Leone House of Parliament, a delegation comprising officials from the World Bank, UNICEF, and the National Commission for Social Action (NaCSA) paid a courtesy visit to the Minister of Employment, Labour, and Social Security, Mr. Mohamed Rahman Swarray, at his New England Ville office. The purpose of the visit was to congratulate the Minister and his ministry, as well as to discuss the next steps for the successful implementation of the new law.

Dr. Abu Kargbo, representing the World Bank, commended the Minister and his team for their relentless efforts in achieving the enactment of the Social Protection Act. He emphasized the World Bank’s satisfaction with this milestone, which had long been anticipated. Dr. Kargbo revealed that the World Bank and UNICEF had developed a framework for the launch of the Act, with expectations of high-profile attendance, including either the President or Vice President.

Dr. Kargbo further proposed the establishment of a technical working committee to map out a roadmap for the official launch. He also disclosed the World Bank’s readiness to provide additional funds for the second phase of cash transfer payments to the elderly and to support the development of the National Ageing Policy into a formal bill.

Representing UNICEF, Madam Munar inquired about progress made in establishing the Social Protection Authority, a key component of the Act. Her inquiry highlighted the importance of operationalizing critical structures to ensure the law’s effectiveness.

Senior Director Idris Turay of the National Social Protection Secretariat at NaCSA also addressed the gathering. He congratulated the Ministry for its dedication and hard work in facilitating the passage of the Act. Mr. Turay underscored the need for stakeholders to fully understand the provisions of the new law to ensure its effective implementation.

In response, the Hon. Minister, Mr. Mohamed Rahman Swarray, expressed gratitude to the delegation for their support and congratulatory remarks. He acknowledged the invaluable contributions of development partners, including the World Bank and UNICEF, throughout the process of formulating and enacting the law. The Minister reiterated his ministry’s commitment to collaborate with all stakeholders for the successful enforcement of the Social Protection Act.

The Minister assured the delegation of the Ministry’s readiness to support the launch and implementation phases, emphasizing the importance of coordinated efforts to achieve the Act’s objectives.

The meeting concluded with a collective agreement to establish a technical working committee to plan the launch of the Act and develop regulations necessary for its successful implementation. All parties reaffirmed their commitment to ensuring that the Social Protection Act (2025) serves as a critical tool for advancing social welfare and development in Sierra Leone.