By Amin Kef (Ranger)
In a positive move towards recognizing the efforts of private business establishments, the Minister of Employment, Labour and Social Security, Mohamed Rahman Swaray, embarked on an inspection and familiarization tour to Jolaks (Wellington Industrial Estate), a notable manufacturer of Padi Products in Freetown.
During the visit on Friday, October 27, 2023, Minister Swaray and his team conducted a comprehensive inspection of the Jolaks factories. They also engaged with the dedicated workforce to gain firsthand insights into their welfare and working conditions. In addition, the Minister held discussions with the Management to explore opportunities for further enhancing employees’ conditions of service.
Minister Swaray fostered an environment of open communication by assuring the workers that their voices were valued. He encouraged them to speak freely, emphasizing that no one would face repercussions for expressing their concerns.
“I want us to talk like brothers and sisters, that is why I have asked everyone on the Management team to excuse us. So please feel free to talk to me,” he encouraged them.
The workers expressed their gratitude to the Minister and his team for the visit and their commitment to dialogue. They also commended the Management of Jolaks for their exemplary treatment.
Workers highlighted various benefits of working for Jolaks, including skill training, a monthly supply of rice for all employees, occasional provision of assorted necessities, daily financial stipends, and assistance during personal challenges. However, they requested an increase in ‘Compassionate Leave’ days and improvements in medical facilities.
Employees from rural communities also urged the Management to consider expanding their operations to the provinces to create job opportunities for the youth in Sierra Leone’s rural areas.
Minister Swaray encouraged the workers to maintain their positive spirit and strive for greater efficiency and diligence in their work. He pledged to work towards improving their conditions.
In discussions with the Management, Minister Swaray applauded Jolaks for promoting gender equality in the workplace, their employee treatment, and the overall work environment.
“This is the decent work that the President spoke about when he promised to create 500,000 jobs for his people,” he added.
Minister Swaray encouraged the Management to address the challenges raised by their workers promptly and assured them that the Ministry’s team would continue engaging with Jolaks in the coming days to ensure that issues were resolved.
Jolaks, a company that currently employs approximately 400 Sierra Leoneans, is notably progressive, with at least 30% of its workforce comprising women.
