NASSIT Holds Key Meeting with MELSS and Indebted Subvented Institutions

By Abdul Rahman Bah

On Thursday, August 15th, 2024, the National Social Security and Insurance Trust (NASSIT) convened a significant meeting at the Radisson Blu in Aberdeen, Freetown. The event brought together representatives from the Ministry of Employment, Labour and Social Security (MELSS) and several highly indebted subvented institutions, including NatCA, EGTC, Sierra Leone Housing Corporation, SLPTA, FCC, the Ministry of Finance, Tourism Board, Ministry of Mines and Minerals, SLRSA, Ministry of Health, Guma Valley, the Ministry of Labour, and Saratell.

The meeting focused on addressing the pressing issue of social security contributions and ensuring compliance with national laws.

Minister Mohamed Rahman Swaray delivered a powerful address, underscoring the critical importance of fulfilling social security obligations. He emphasized that timely payment of social security contributions is essential for reducing vulnerability and enhancing resilience among Sierra Leoneans. Swaray urged those in positions of authority to take their responsibilities seriously and ensure that contributions are made promptly.

He also highlighted the importance of understanding and adhering to relevant legal provisions, such as the National Social Security Act and the International Labour Organization (ILO) Convention 102. Swaray stressed that these laws are in place to protect all workers, particularly those in the informal sector, and called for increased coverage in the formal sector. His message was clear: social security is a vital component of financial stability, especially in later years, and must be upheld to protect the rights and well-being of all citizens.

Edwin Mohamed Kamara, the Deputy Director General of Operations at NASSIT, delivered a presentation that served as a crucial reminder of employers’ obligations under the law. Kamara’s presentation covered key aspects such as the definition of an employer, the registration process, contribution requirements, enforcement of compliance, and the penalties for non-compliance.

He emphasized that employers must adhere to the legal definitions and requirements outlined in the law, ensuring that all employees, regardless of their role or employment status, are properly registered for social security. Kamara also stressed the importance of accurate employee data, the use of national identification numbers, and proper documentation for marital status in the registration process.

Kamara reminded attendees that failure to comply with social security obligations could result in violations of national laws. He urged employers to take their responsibilities seriously, emphasizing that upholding these obligations is crucial for the protection and well-being of Sierra Leoneans.

The meeting highlighted the collective responsibility of both government institutions and employers to ensure that social security contributions are made accurately and on time. The discussions emphasized the need for a comprehensive understanding of legal requirements and the critical role of social security in safeguarding the future of Sierra Leone’s workforce. The engagement between NASSIT, MELSS, and the subvented institutions represents a significant step toward improving compliance and protecting the rights of all Sierra Leoneans.