The Ministry of Employment, Labor, and Social Security has unveiled its proposed budget for the fiscal year 2025. The budget, presented during the annual budget hearings on 21 August 2024, outlines strategic plans to boost employment opportunities, enhance labour market governance, and expand social security programs.

The Deputy Minister, Mr. Mohamed Lassanah Dumbuya, highlighted the ministry’s critical role in Sierra Leone’s socio-economic development. The proposed budget emphasizes the importance of investing in workforce development, mainly focusing on skills training for youth and women to drive sustained economic growth.

Key allocations include pension funds and unemployment benefits increases, reinforcing the government’s unwavering commitment to social protection for vulnerable populations. This commitment is further solidified with the proposed enhanced funding for labor inspections, worker rights initiatives, and mediation services to improve compliance with labor laws.

The budget also includes p
rovisions for administrative and operational costs, with a focus on ensuring efficient resource use. A contingency reserve is proposed to provide flexibility in responding to unforeseen events or emergencies.

The Deputy Minister emphasized that the budget represents a comprehensive strategy to address current challenges while planning for future growth, reflecting the ministry’s commitment to creating a more skilled and adaptable workforce in Sierra Leone.

Source: Sierra Leone News Agency