By Abass Mahmoud Sillah Jr
The Secretary-General of the Sierra Leone Labour Congress, Max K. Conteh, has commended the government for its ongoing labour reforms while calling for the institutionalization of social dialogue mechanisms to address workers’ concerns more effectively. Delivering his statement at the National Labour Conference and Social Dialogue Forum, Conteh described the gathering as a critical step toward fostering understanding and cooperation among key stakeholders in the labour sector. He noted that the forum represents more than a routine engagement, emphasizing that it is a strategic platform for identifying and addressing challenges affecting workers and the broader population.
“The holding of this second Social Dialogue Forum is not just symbolic, but a step in the right direction toward addressing the concerns of workers and the general populace,” Conteh said. He urged the government to formalize the National Labour Conference and Social Dialogue Forum as a permanent annual structure, drawing inspiration from similar institutionalized engagements in countries such as South Africa. According to Conteh, such platforms provide a unique opportunity for stakeholders—including government, employers, and workers—to deliberate on labour market issues and collectively develop solutions.
“The sustenance and institutionalization of this forum cannot be overemphasized,” he stated, adding that the Labour Congress and its affiliate unions fully support efforts to strengthen the initiative. Conteh expressed appreciation to the Vice President for initiating the dialogue platform, describing it as a significant milestone in promoting inclusive governance and labour relations. Highlighting the role of the Sierra Leone Labour Congress, he noted that the organisation represents thousands of workers and remains a key stakeholder in the country’s socio-economic and political development.
He underscored the importance of social dialogue as a globally recognised mechanism for resolving industrial disputes peacefully, referencing International Labour Organization (ILO) Convention 144, which promotes tripartite consultation. “We believe in dialogue at the highest level. It is through continuous engagement that we can resolve issues amicably without resorting to conflict,” Conteh affirmed. He further pointed to existing mechanisms such as the Joint Consultative Committee and the Joint National Negotiating Board as vital tools for dispute resolution and the promotion of social justice.
Citing the ILO principle that “poverty anywhere is a threat to prosperity everywhere,” Conteh stressed the need for sustained collaboration to improve workers’ living conditions and deepen public understanding of economic realities. Addressing this year’s conference theme—focused on the challenges and opportunities of decent work in the digital era—he called for a shift from traditional industrial relations practices to more modern, technology-driven approaches. “We cannot continue to operate industrial relations in the traditional way in a rapidly evolving digital environment,” he said, noting that the shift presents opportunities for capacity building and improved labour standards across sectors.
Conteh also commended the Minister of Employment, Labour and Social Security for maintaining an open-door policy, which he said has strengthened engagement between government and workers’ representatives. “The Ministry has remained accessible and responsive to the concerns of workers, and we appreciate this level of cooperation,” he added. He concluded by expressing optimism that continued dialogue and collaboration would lead to improved labour conditions and a more equitable working environment for all Sierra Leoneans. The National Labour Conference and Social Dialogue Forum forms part of activities marking International Workers’ Day, bringing together stakeholders to deliberate on pressing labour issues and chart a path forward in an evolving economic landscape.
