Kenema, Sierra Leone – The Director General of the National Social Security and Insurance Trust (NASSIT), Mohamed Fuaad Daboh, joined staff of the NASSIT Eastern Region Office to commemorate the Trust’s 22nd Annual Thanksgiving Services on Friday, February 20, and Sunday, February 22, 2025.
The celebrations took place at both the Kenema Central Mosque and St. Paul’s Cathedral Church, under the theme “Moving into the Informal Sector.”
Thanksgiving as a Tradition
Speaking at both services, Director General Daboh expressed gratitude for life, well-being, and the continued progress of NASSIT, attributing these blessings to God. He highlighted that thanksgiving is deeply embedded in NASSIT’s culture, stating:
“At the beginning of every year, NASSIT observes moments of thanksgiving in gratitude to God for a year spent and to seek His guidance for the coming year.”
Key Achievements and Strategic Focus
Reflecting on NASSIT’s achievements over the past year, Daboh outlined several milestones, including: Enforcing compliance and boosting contributions collection Overhauling ICT infrastructure for improved efficiency Ensuring seamless benefits payment to beneficiaries Expanding coverage to include more workers Conducting critical investment audits for accountability Enhancing service delivery for contributors and pensioners
Looking ahead, he emphasized that NASSIT’s strategic focus for 2025 would be on extending social security coverage to the informal sector, ensuring that workers outside the formal economy gain access to social protection.
“Social security is a fundamental human right, and inclusivity remains a top priority,” Daboh stated.
He stressed that informal sector workers are among the most vulnerable during crises, citing the devastating impact of the Ebola and COVID-19 pandemics on Sierra Leone’s workforce.
Alignment with National Development Goals
Daboh aligned NASSIT’s mission with President Julius Maada Bio’s “Big Five” agenda, recognizing the significant contributions of informal sector workers to Sierra Leone’s socio-economic development.
Religious Leaders Commend NASSIT’s Mission
At the Kenema Central Mosque, Imam Sheik Alhaji Conteh praised NASSIT for its resilience over 22 years, emphasizing that institutions that entrust their work to God are destined for success. He urged the congregation to pray for NASSIT, as its mission benefits the entire nation.
At St. Paul’s Cathedral, Bishop Henry Aruna of the Kenema Diocese described the Thanksgiving Service as an opportunity to reflect on God’s blessings. He highlighted the critical role of NASSIT in ensuring dignity in old age, encouraging young people to secure their future by enrolling in the scheme.
Sharing a personal testimony, Bishop Aruna stated:
“I have never been on a payroll, but because I joined the scheme, today I enjoy a dignified pension.”
Looking Ahead
The 22nd Annual Thanksgiving Services reaffirmed NASSIT’s commitment to expanding social security and ensuring that no worker—formal or informal—is left behind. As the Trust moves forward, its vision of inclusivity, sustainability, and social protection for all remains at the core of its mission.
