The Ministry of Employment, Labour and Social Security is exploring ways to expand health insurance

The Ministry of Employment, Labour and Social Security is exploring ways to expand health insurance and social protection for workers across Sierra Leone. The move focuses especially on informal sector workers, who make up more than 80 percent of the workforce.

The issue was discussed during a meeting between government officials and the United Nations Economic Commission for Africa in Freetown on Tuesday, October 13, 2026.

The discussions focused on sustainable healthcare funding, workplace safety and measures to improve access to healthcare. Officials noted that reduced support from international partners has increased the need for countries to raise more funds locally.