MELSS Puts Commercial Banks on Notice Over Labour Law Compliance

 FREETOWN, Sierra Leone – July 28, 2026 — The Ministry of Employment, Labour and Social Security (MELSS) has intensified its push to enforce Sierra Leone's labour laws, engaging commercial banks on workers' rights, outsourcing practices, severance benefits and workplace safety.

The high-level meeting brought together Managing Directors and Human Resource leaders from commercial banks, alongside representatives of the Sierra Leone Labour Congress (SLLC), the Sierra Leone Employers' Federation and senior officials from MELSS. The engagement forms part of the Ministry's ongoing efforts to strengthen labour law enforcement while encouraging voluntary compliance across the private sector.

Speaking at the meeting, Minister of Employment, Labour and Social Security, Hon. Mohamed Rahman Swaray, stressed that although Sierra Leone has modernised its labour legislation to address evolving workplace challenges, effective enforcement remains the key to protecting workers.

"Even with the best legislation, enforcement will always be the real deal," the Minister said, adding that the Ministry will intensify inspections while working closely with employers to improve compliance.

Minister Swaray explained that the banking sector was selected because of concerns surrounding labour practices, particularly the increasing use of outsourced workers and the need to ensure employers fulfil their obligations regarding severance and end-of-service benefits.

Referring to the recent transition involving Union Trust Bank (UTB), he said the Ministry is determined to prevent situations that could negatively affect employees during corporate restructuring or ownership changes.

He also reminded employers of their obligations under Section 25 of the Employment Act, warning that businesses must make adequate provision for severance payments and other statutory benefits owed to employees.

During the engagement, Director of Labour and Employment Idrissa Dumbuya presented key provisions of the Employment Act and the Work Permit Act 2023, while officials from the Directorate of Occupational Safety and Health outlined workplace safety standards expected within the banking industry.

Sierra Leone Labour Congress Secretary General Marx Conteh described the engagement as a significant step towards ensuring banks comply fully with the Employment Act, particularly the provisions protecting workers' rights.

Project Officer of the Sierra Leone Employers' Federation, Ivette Kargbo, reaffirmed employers' commitment to complying with labour laws, noting that respect for the law promotes decent work, safeguards employees' rights and strengthens a fair and transparent labour market.

The engagement concluded with discussions on strengthening collaboration between Government, employers and financial institutions to improve compliance, protect workers' entitlements and promote safer workplaces across Sierra Leone's banking sector.

Source: Ministry of Employment Labour and Social Security