Strategic Social Protection Forum Led by VP Jalloh Focuses on Coordinated Efforts and Livelihood Enhancement

In a move that underscores Sierra Leone’s commitment to enhancing social welfare, the Vice President of the Republic, Dr. Mohamed Juldeh Jalloh, presided over the “Inter-Agency Forum Meeting on Social Protection” held at the District Council in Kenema City from the 9th to the 10th of August, 2024. The forum gathered representatives from various government agencies, international development partners, non-governmental organizations (NGOs), and civil society groups to discuss the critical need for coordinated social protection efforts that address the root causes of poverty and vulnerability in Sierra Leone.

A Platform for Strategic Dialogue and Collaboration

The forum served as a vital platform for stakeholders to engage in strategic dialogue on the future of social protection in Sierra Leone. With the Vice President at the helm, discussions focused on enhancing coordination among the diverse actors involved in social protection initiatives. Dr. Jalloh stressed the importance of avoiding the duplication of resources, a challenge that has historically impeded the effectiveness of social protection programs.

In his keynote address, Vice President Jalloh highlighted that the forum was not merely an administrative meeting but a crucial opportunity to forge stronger partnerships and streamline efforts to maximize the impact of social protection across the country. “This forum provides us with a unique opportunity to align our efforts, eliminate redundancies, and ensure that our collective resources are utilized efficiently to bring about meaningful change,” he stated.

Linking Social Protection to National Development Goals

One of the key themes of the forum was the integration of social protection with the Government’s “Big Five Game Changers,” a strategic framework aimed at propelling Sierra Leone’s socio-economic development. Dr. Jalloh articulated the government’s vision of transitioning from short-term consumption-based aid to long-term livelihood enhancement, which is central to the success of the “Big Five” initiatives. These initiatives focus on critical areas such as agriculture, education, health, energy, and infrastructure, all of which are essential for sustainable development.

The Vice President emphasized that while cash transfers and other forms of direct aid are important, they must be complemented by initiatives that provide the vulnerable with the tools and opportunities to build sustainable livelihoods. “Social Protection is indeed a pro-poor instrument, but transitioning people out of vulnerabilities requires far more than cash handouts. We must focus on creating sustainable livelihood opportunities that empower individuals to lift themselves out of poverty,” he remarked.

A Holistic Approach to Addressing Vulnerability

Throughout the two-day forum, participants engaged in in-depth discussions on the various dimensions of social protection. Key topics included the role of social safety nets in poverty alleviation, the importance of targeting the most vulnerable populations, and the integration of social protection with broader economic policies. The forum also explored innovative approaches to social protection, including the use of technology to improve the delivery and monitoring of social welfare programs.

Vice President Jalloh called for a holistic approach to social protection that goes beyond immediate relief and addresses the structural factors that contribute to vulnerability. He urged stakeholders to consider how social protection can be linked to broader development goals, such as job creation, skills development, and access to essential services like healthcare and education. “We must ensure that our social protection programs are not only effective in the short term but also sustainable in the long term. This requires a comprehensive approach that integrates social protection with our broader national development strategies,” he asserted.

Strengthening Coordination and Accountability

A key outcome of the forum was the recognition of the need for stronger coordination among the various agencies and organizations involved in social protection. Participants agreed that improved coordination would help to avoid overlaps and ensure that resources are directed where they are most needed. The Vice President highlighted the importance of establishing clear mechanisms for accountability and monitoring to track the progress of social protection initiatives and measure their impact on the ground.

The discussions also touched on the need for sustainable financing for social protection programs. Dr. Jalloh emphasized that while external support is important, there must also be a focus on developing domestic funding mechanisms to ensure the continuity and sustainability of social protection efforts. “We must think creatively about how we can mobilize resources domestically to support our social protection programs. This is crucial for ensuring that these programs can continue to serve the most vulnerable in our society, even in the face of external shocks,” he noted.

A Renewed Commitment to Social Protection

The forum in Kenema concluded with a renewed commitment from all stakeholders to work together towards a more coordinated and effective approach to social protection in Sierra Leone. The Vice President’s leadership in this initiative reflects the government’s dedication to reducing poverty and enhancing the quality of life for all Sierra Leoneans, particularly the most vulnerable.

Dr. Jalloh’s closing remarks underscored the government’s vision of a Sierra Leone where social protection is not just a safety net but a ladder to greater economic security and social mobility. He urged all participants to carry forward the discussions and agreements from the forum, translating them into concrete actions that will make a tangible difference in the lives of those they aim to serve.

“The work we have begun here in Kenema must continue beyond these walls. We have the opportunity to create lasting change, but it will require sustained effort and unwavering commitment from all of us,” the Vice President concluded, setting the stage for the next phase of Sierra Leone’s social protection agenda.