Sierra Leone's National Social Security and Insurance Trust (NASSIT) has reaffirmed its dedication to improving social security coverage and promoting sustainable investments at the inaugural Africa Social Security Summit. The summit, held in Addis Ababa, Ethiopia, from 29 to 30 October 2026, brought together policymakers, social security executives, and industry experts. The event was organised by the Africa Social Security Association (ASSA) and focused on harmonising social security systems for infrastructure and economic transformation in Africa.
The Sierra Leonean delegation to the summit included Madam Jenneh Jabati, Chairperson of the Board of Trustees, and Director General Mr. Chernor Mamoud Jalloh, along with other senior officials. The summit addressed pressing challenges such as low social security coverage for informal workers, administrative inefficiencies, and the portability of benefits across borders. Participants discussed potential solutions, including digital innovation, flexible contribution options, and improved regulatory frameworks.
A key moment in the summit was Mr. Jalloh's role in a panel discussion on expanding social security coverage to the informal sector. The session explored how to design affordable and flexible social security schemes for those with irregular incomes. Mr. Jalloh's involvement highlighted Sierra Leone's position in shaping critical continental policies regarding social protection for millions outside the formal economy.
The summit also discussed how social security institutions can support Africa's infrastructure development, with a focus on the collective management of over $800 billion in pension assets. The conversation centred on balancing investment with the need for strong governance and safeguarding contributors' funds. This topic is crucial for NASSIT, as it seeks to enhance its investment goals and informal sector coverage.
Mr. Jalloh concluded his tenure as ASSA Vice Chairman, officially handing over the role to the Director General of Côte d'Ivoire's social security institution. This shift marks the end of Sierra Leone's leadership in the ASSA Governing Council. The change in leadership may bring new perspectives and approaches to the association's future initiatives.
Representatives from NASSIT, including Mr. Jonathan Lamboi and Mr. Cyril Jalloh, emphasised the importance of these discussions for advancing the Trust's investment goals and informal sector coverage. Their participation underscores NASSIT's commitment to collaborating with continental partners and improving social security administration. The summit provided a platform for NASSIT to engage with international stakeholders and share best practices.
As Africa moves towards more integrated social protection systems, NASSIT is focused on transforming international cooperation into real improvements in coverage and efficiency for Sierra Leonean contributors and beneficiaries. The Trust's leadership is committed to building on the summit's outcomes and implementing changes that will positively impact the lives of Sierra Leoneans, particularly those in the informal sector.
Key points
- NASSIT promotes informal sector inclusion and sustainable investments at the Africa Social Security Summit.
- The summit addressed pressing challenges such as low social security coverage for informal workers and administrative inefficiencies.
- Mr. Jalloh concluded his tenure as ASSA Vice Chairman, marking the end of Sierra Leone's leadership in the ASSA Governing Council.
