Sierra Leone’s Parliament has made history by enacting the country’s first Social Protection Law, marking a significant milestone in the nation’s efforts to support vulnerable populations.
Passed unanimously following its third reading, the legislation establishes a comprehensive legal framework for social protection under the Ministry of Employment, Labour, and Social Security.
The new law addresses long-standing gaps in the coordination and implementation of social protection programmes, bringing together public and private sector efforts under a unified system.
During the parliamentary debate, lawmakers emphasized the transformative potential of the legislation to improve the lives of marginalized groups, reduce poverty, and enhance social equity.
The journey toward this landmark achievement began in 2022, with the Ministry of Employment, Labour, and Social Security and its social partners spearheading regional consultations.
A legal draft was initially produced by the Attorney-General’s Office, but further consultations were requested by His Excellency President Julius Maada Bio and his Cabinet to incorporate diverse perspectives.
These additional engagements, completed in 2024 with funding from the World Bank, ensured that the final Bill reflects the needs of all stakeholders.One of the key features of the legislation is the creation of a Social Protection Authority, which will serve as the coordinating body for all social protection agencies across Sierra Leone.
This Authority aims to streamline operations, eliminate overlaps, and improve efficiency in programme delivery. Additionally, the Social Protection Breadbasket, a dedicated fund established by the law, will provide financial support for various social protection initiatives.
The Social Protection Law builds on the foundations laid by the 2018 Social Protection Policy and the 2022–2026 Social Protection Strategy, aligning with the African Union’s Strategy on Social Protection. By introducing a unified framework, the law enhances Sierra Leone’s ability to deliver targeted interventions and expand the reach of social protection programmes to underserved communities.
This landmark legislation signifies Sierra Leone’s commitment to promoting social justice and uplifting its vulnerable populations. With the enactment of the Social Protection Law, the country is poised to take significant strides toward poverty reduction and inclusive development.
