Sierra Leone's Minister of Employment, Labour, and Social Security, Mohamed Rahman Swaray, recently convened with Sierra Leonean students and nationals in Riyadh on December 14, 2023. In the wake of the attempted coup on November 26th, Minister Swaray reassured the Sierra Leoneans in Saudi Arabia about the normalcy, stability, and safety prevailing in Sierra Leone under President Julius Maada Bio's leadership.

Expressing condolences for the 18 security personnel who lost their lives defending the nation during the coup attempt, Swaray emphasized President Bio's control over the situation. He urged Sierra Leoneans abroad not to alter their plans, assuring them of the government's commitment to justice for those responsible.

During a sideline meeting at the Global Labour Market Conference, the Minister disclosed that 8,000 jobs were allocated for Sierra Leone's labor sector in Saudi Arabia, with only 18 spaces filled. Swaray pledged to address this gap and respond to concerns raised by students, promising to convey their requests to the government and highlighting President Bio's commitment to their welfare.

Saidu Barrie, the Secretary General of Sierra Leone students in Riyadh, appealed for monthly allowances, waiving new airport charges, and shipment support. Minister Swaray assured the students that their requests would be tabled before the government, emphasizing President Bio's dedication to their well-being.

In opening remarks, Mohamed Sulaiman Sankoh thanked Minister Swaray and Presidential Adviser Alpha Osman Timbo for attending the Embassy's familiarization meeting. Deputy Ambassador Mohamed Hassan Koroma expressed gratitude for the town hall meeting, underscoring the longstanding bilateral relationship between Sierra Leone and Saudi Arabia.

Sheikh Gibril Sesay, Secretary General of the Sierra Leone National Union in the Kingdom, welcomed Swaray and Timbo, commending the government's efforts. He requested the Minister to negotiate for the inclusion of teachers, students, and nurses in the employment opportunities provided by Saudi Arabia.

The meeting concluded with the presentation of the Embassy's Newsletter and a vote of thanks by Alhaji Ibrahim Koidouwi, the Senior Liaison of the Embassy. The event highlighted the government's commitment to addressing the concerns of Sierra Leoneans abroad, fostering a sense of unity and collaboration.