By Amin Kef Sesay
Mohamed Fuaad Daboh, the Director General of the National Social Security and Insurance Trust (NASSIT), has been awarded the prestigious Most Outstanding Excellence in Social Security Administration by The Business Executive. The accolade was presented during the 3rd edition of the African Public Service Optimum Awards, a significant event held on Wednesday June 5, 2024 in Accra, Ghana, attended by high-profile dignitaries including Ambassadors and senior Ghanaian Government officials.
The Director General was also invited to deliver a keynote address on “Transforming Africa Through Public Service Professionalism and Excellence.” In his acceptance speech, he expressed his gratitude for the award, attributing it to his dedication and the unwavering support from the Board, Management and Staff of NASSIT. He dedicated the award to President Julius Maada Bio and the people of Sierra Leone, emphasizing its collective significance.
“This award does not belong to me only; it belongs to the President, His Excellency Rtd Brigadier General Julius Maada Bio, and the people of Sierra Leone,” Mohamed Fuaad Daboh stated.
During his address, the NASSIT Director General highlighted the critical role of public service in Africa’s development. He discussed the continent’s challenges, including corruption, poverty, inequality and inadequate infrastructure, while underscoring Africa’s boundless potential. He advocated for public service transformation which he believes is key to unlocking this potential, given Africa’s rich resources, youthful population and innovative spirit.
Amidst applause from over 250 attendees, Mohamed Fuaad Daboh outlined essential pillars for Africa’s transformation, such as strengthening legal and institutional frameworks, fostering capacity building and training, encouraging civic participation and transparency, promoting ethical standards and accountability, leveraging technology through e-government initiatives and enhancing regional and international cooperation.
“By focusing on these pillars, we can create a public service that will not only meet the demands of the present but also anticipate future needs,” Mr. Daboh asserted. He emphasized the importance of professionalism and excellence in public service as crucial to achieving the continent’s aspirations.
He further elaborated on civic participation, noting its importance in empowering citizens and ensuring that public policies reflect their needs and aspirations. Transparency, he added, reduces corruption and ensures that public officials act in the public’s best interests. Mohamed Fuaad Daboh advocated for the enactment and enforcement of freedom of information laws and the use of technology to broaden civic engagement.
He expressed optimism about Africa’s future, citing its vibrant youth and abundant natural resources as catalysts for growth. He pledged Sierra Leone’s commitment to fostering a professional and excellent public service, aligned with the continent’s development goals.
“Africa is at a crossroads of development and our opportunities are boundless. Our youthful population is vibrant and our natural resources are abundant. These are catalysts for growth and development. What we require is the right mindset, visibility and a stronger regional integration that will foster this much-needed development,” he concluded.
