The National Commission for Social Action (NaCSA) recently organized a consultative workshop on February 27th, 2024, to assess the development and progress of social protection initiatives in Sierra Leone over the past two decades. The workshop convened a diverse group of experts from government agencies, non-governmental organizations (NGOs), and the private sector to analyze and evaluate the nation's social protection policies and programs.

Ambassador Ernest Mbaimba Ndomahina, the Commissioner for NaCSA, underscored the government's unwavering commitment to social protection, particularly highlighting the flagship Social Safety Net program. Launched in 2014, this program has been instrumental in providing regular cash transfers to more than 190,000 severely impoverished households.

Commissioner Ndomahina also emphasized the government's broader vision of establishing a robust national social protection system. He cited key initiatives such as the Medium-Term National Development Plan (2019-2023) and the ongoing development of an integrated National Social Protection Strategy as pivotal steps towards this goal.

Mona Korsgard, Acting Deputy Representative of Programmes at UNICEF, praised Sierra Leone's resilience and dedication to strengthening its social protection system, especially in terms of support for women and children.

The workshop aimed to provide a comprehensive analysis of Sierra Leone's social protection system and initiatives over the past two decades. It sought to evaluate programmatic, structural, and policy evolution, identify significant milestones, and draw lessons learned to inform future policy directions.

Commissioner Ndomahina provided an overview of the progress made by NaCSA, highlighting the findings of a 2008 study that emphasized the need for targeted interventions for vulnerable groups, including those with disabilities, and strategies for job creation and economic security.

As the social protection sector continues to evolve, NaCSA is conducting a documentation and stocktaking exercise to review the progress of social protection in Sierra Leone. This initiative aims to document the evolution of the sector, capture lessons learned, and formulate strategic recommendations for future interventions.

In conclusion, the workshop was a crucial platform for stakeholders to reflect on the achievements and challenges of social protection in Sierra Leone and chart a course for its future development. The commitment of the government, supported by international partners like UNICEF, underscores the importance of social protection as a cornerstone of inclusive and sustainable development in Sierra Leone.