The Ministry of Employment, Labour and Social Security (MELSS) has initiated a review of work permit fees for foreign nationals employed in Sierra Leone.
This move, aimed at balancing the interests of expatriate workers and the nation’s Local Content Policy, was discussed at a stakeholder meeting held on Tuesday, March 25, 2025.
The meeting, convened by MELSS, brought together key players from various sectors, including managers and administrators from Leone Rock Metal Group, the Sierra Leone Chamber of Commerce, the Indian Mercantile Association, Maya Mining, and other prominent employers and associations.
Permanent Secretary of MELSS, Joseph Teckman Kamara, clarified that the review’s primary objective is not solely to increase work permit fees, but to ensure strict adherence to the government’s mandate of enforcing Local Content Policy laws. He stressed the importance of the review in maintaining regional stability and promoting the welfare of both foreign and local workers.
This review is a necessary action for the overall good of Sierra Leone, our neighboring countries, and both foreign and local workers,” Kamara stated.
Director of Labour and Employment, Sinneh Bockarie, elaborated on the rationale behind the fee review, highlighting that the current proposals are open for discussion and negotiation. “These are just proposals. We need all parties to collaborate and reach a final resolution that is acceptable to everyone,” Bockarie emphasized.
Representatives from the private sector, including Oluniyi Robbin-Coker of the Sierra Leone Chamber of Commerce, Dr. Kishor Shankerdas, President of the Indian Mercantile Association, and Sajeeya Gbala from Maya Mining, expressed their willingness to engage in constructive dialogue. They indicated that while they are not opposed to an upward review of foreign worker permits, they requested time to convene as a unified private sector body to formulate a consolidated response to the government’s proposals.
