Sierra Leone’s National Social Security and Insurance Trust (NASSIT) has affirmed its commitment to enhancing social security coverage and promoting sustainable investments at the inaugural Africa Social Security Summit, held from 29 to 30 October 2026 in Addis Ababa, Ethiopia.
The delegation included Madam Jenneh Jabati, Chairperson of the Board of Trustees, and Director General Mr. Chernor Mamoud Jalloh, along with other senior officials.
The summit, organised by the Africa Social Security Association (ASSA), brought together policymakers, social security executives, and industry experts under the theme “Harmonisation of Social Security Systems for Infrastructure and Economic Transformation in Africa.” Attendees discussed pressing challenges such as low social security coverage for informal workers, administrative inefficiencies, and the portability of benefits across borders.
Participants considered solutions like digital innovation, flexible contribution options, improved regulatory frameworks, and collaborative approaches to make social security systems more inclusive and efficient.
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, moderated by Mr. Timothy Mukoba, 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, which aligns with NASSIT’s mission to enhance social security participation and service delivery.
Another significant topic was how social security institutions can support Africa’s infrastructure development, discussing the collective management of over $800 billion in pension assets. The conversation focused on balancing investment with the need for strong governance and safeguarding contributors’ funds.
Additionally, 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.
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. The participation of NASSIT’s leadership underscores its commitment to collaborating with continental partners and improving social security administration.
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.
