By Jariatu S Bangura
Members of Parliament (MPs) have urged the Ministry of Labour and Social Security to refine the Social Protection Bill to create a more focused and effective framework that prioritizes vulnerable populations.
A key element of the proposed legislation is the establishment of a Social Protection Authority, tasked with managing the Social Protection Bread Basket a fund aimed at supporting various welfare initiatives.
The measure seeks to enhance coordination between public and private sectors, reinforcing Sierra Leone’s commitment to social welfare.
During the parliamentary session, legislators expressed concerns over the shortcomings of existing programs, which often fail to adequately serve marginalized communities.
They called for improvements in the design and implementation of social safety nets to better address the needs of low-income families, the elderly, and persons with disabilities.
The MPs emphasized the need for a data-driven approach to identify and target the right beneficiaries, reducing inefficiencies, waste, and fraud. They also stressed the importance of increasing collaboration among government agencies, non-governmental organizations, and local authorities to strengthen the impact of social protection programs.
Additionally, the lawmakers recommended greater transparency in the allocation and distribution of resources to ensure accountability. This comes amid broader discussions on national poverty reduction strategies, with Parliament pushing for reforms to create a more inclusive and sustainable social welfare system.
The Social Protection Bill has been committed to the Legislative Committee under Standing Order 51 for amendments and corrections. House Leader Hon. Matthew
Nyuma assured the House that further consultations will be held to refine the bill and address pressing concerns. The debate is expected to continue in the coming weeks as MPs seek comprehensive solutions to better serve Sierra Leone’s most vulnerable citizens
