AYV News, January 27, 2025
Sierra Leone’s Parliament has unanimously passed the country’s first-ever Social Protection Bill, marking a major milestone in strengthening social protection systems. The legislation establishes a comprehensive legal framework under the Ministry of Employment, Labour, and Social Security, addressing critical gaps in existing programmes and enhancing coordination across sectors.
The Bill’s journey began in 2022 with regional consultations led by the Ministry and social partners, followed by a legal draft from the Attorney-General’s Office. After further consultations requested by President Julius Maada Bio and funded by the World Bank, the legislation reflects diverse stakeholder input, ensuring inclusivity.
A key highlight of the Bill is the creation of a Social Protection Authority, which will coordinate activities across public and private agencies, reducing overlaps and improving efficiency. The Authority will also manage the Social Protection Breadbasket Fund to support targeted initiatives.
Building on the 2018 Social Protection Policy and the 2022-2026 Strategy, the new law aligns with the African Union’s framework on social protection. It provides Sierra Leone with a unified system to better serve vulnerable populations nationwide.
