By Emma Black

The Ministry of Employment, Labour and Social Security (MELSS), in partnership with the Sierra Leone Labour Congress (SLLC), the Sierra Leone Employers Federation (SLEF), and the International Organisation for Migration (IOM), has launched a series of regional consultations to revise the National Labour Migration Policy, first established in 2018.

The consultations began with a workshop in Kenema City for the Eastern Region on June 23, 2025, engaging representatives from key public and private institutions, the session focused on:

Workshop objectives Key provisions of the Overseas Employment and Migrants Workers Act 2023 Core elements of the 2018 National Labour Migration Policy

Speakers from MELSS, IOM, SLLC, and SLEF emphasized the role of managed migration in fostering economic growth while addressing its challenges. Laura Nicol of IOM highlighted the dual nature of migration as both an opportunity and a risk if not properly governed. Mr. A.J.P. Lebbie from MELSS detailed Sierra Leone’s advancements in labour migration governance.

Participants contributed valuable insights for the policy review through group discussions. The consultations continued across other regions, concluding in Port Loko, as part of a broader effort to refine the policy framework.

Through these inclusive workshops, MELSS and its partners aim to develop a robust, comprehensive National Labour Migration Policy that supports individuals, employers, and Sierra Leone’s socioeconomic development.

Copyright –Published in Expo Times News on Wednesday, 2nd July, 2025 (ExpoTimes News – Expo Media Group (expomediasl.com)