NASSIT Presents Informal Sector Scheme Status Report

The National Social Security and Insurance Trust (NASSIT) presented a comprehensive status report on the Informal Sector Scheme Project to the Ministry of Labour, Employment, and Social Security. The presentation took place at the Radisson Blu in Aberdeen and highlighted significant developments and future plans for the scheme.

Key Highlights from the Presentation:

Mr. Joseph Teckman Kanu, Ministry Secretary and Chairman:

Experience: With over 30 years of service in the ministry, Mr. Kanu shared his personal anticipation of benefiting from NASSIT upon his retirement.
Informal Sector Size: He underscored that the informal sector is the largest in Sierra Leone, necessitating focused attention and tailored schemes.

Mohamed Fuaad Daboh, Director General of NASSIT:

Gratitude: Expressed appreciation to the Ministry of Labour for its efforts in improving the lives of Sierra Leoneans.
NASSIT’s Role: Emphasized the organization’s duty to ensure citizens join NASSIT, highlighting the act that allows voluntary participation for informal sector workers.
Separate Scheme: Stressed the importance of creating a distinct scheme for the informal sector, addressing the unique challenges and ensuring comprehensive coverage.

Mohamed Rahman Sawaray, Minister of Labour, Employment, and Social Security:

Importance of the Report: Acknowledged the significance of receiving the informal sector status report.
Coverage Statistics: Noted that only 9% of the working population is covered by the formal sector, highlighting the critical need for NASSIT to expand its reach.
Presidential Legacy Project: Emphasized the importance of fulfilling President Julius Maada Bio’s legacy project within months, having previously discussed the matter with the NASSIT DG during the 100th session of Labour in Geneva.

Cyril Jalloh, Coordinator of the Informal Sector:

Attracting Citizens: Stressed the design of the informal sector scheme to attract more citizens to participate.
Operational Challenges: Acknowledged the difficulties since NASSIT’s inception in 2002 in reaching those not mandated to join.
Contribution Requirements: Mentioned the previous requirement for informal sector individuals to contribute for 15 years to become members, indicating potential revisions to make the scheme more accessible.

Summary: The presentation and subsequent discussions highlighted the critical need to expand NASSIT’s coverage to the informal sector, which constitutes the majority of the workforce in Sierra Leone. The meeting underscored the collective efforts required to improve social security access for all citizens and the importance of government and institutional collaboration to achieve these goals.

Future Steps

Scheme Expansion: Focus on developing a separate, accessible scheme for informal sector workers.
Public Engagement: Enhance efforts to attract and inform citizens about the benefits of joining NASSIT.
Policy Revisions: Consider revising contribution requirements to facilitate easier access for informal sector workers.
Continuous Monitoring: Implement ongoing monitoring and evaluation to ensure the effectiveness and reach of the scheme.

This initiative reflects a broader commitment to social security reform and the enhancement of labor welfare in Sierra Leone, aligning with national development objectives and the president’s vision for inclusive growth.