On September 17, 2024, a delegation from the U.S. Department of Labor, led by the Deputy Chief of Mission from the U.S. Embassy, met with Sierra Leone’s Minister of Employment, Labour, and Social Security, Hon. Mohamed Rahman Swaray. The purpose of the meeting was to deepen the collaboration between the two countries in their efforts to eliminate child labor, particularly its most severe forms.

Minister Swaray underscored Sierra Leone’s dedication to eradicating child labor and improving labor conditions, stressing the vital role of international cooperation with the U.S. in these efforts. The U.S. delegation reaffirmed their commitment to providing technical assistance to bolster Sierra Leone's labor inspection systems and uphold labor standards. They emphasized the importance of global collaboration in tackling this critical issue.

The discussions also touched on broader topics, such as workforce development, with both parties recognizing the need for vocational training to equip young Sierra Leoneans with skills for sustainable employment in areas like agriculture, construction, and services. These initiatives are seen as key to reducing child labor and offering better economic opportunities for the country's youth.

In addition to addressing child labor, Minister Swaray highlighted that the partnership extends to promoting youth employment and enforcing labor laws. The U.S. delegation echoed these sentiments, outlining plans to enhance technical support for labor inspections and compliance in Sierra Leone.

This visit marks a new phase in the partnership between the two nations, with both committed to eradicating child labor and fostering long-term economic growth through workforce development programs.