Labour Minister Ends Sierra Tropical Strife.

Minister Swaray Holds Talks with Sierra Tropical Workers Over Labour Grievances & Workplace Improvements

Freetown, April 13, 2026 (SLENA)-Minister Mohamed Rahman Swaray convened an emergency consultative meeting where aggrieved Sierra Tropical Limited workers raised labour grievances; after government intervention, the industrial dispute was resolved, with key challenges identified and practical solutions proposed to strengthen worker welfare and labour relations.

Swaray disclosed his second Sumbuya visit. “Unfortunate incidents followed my previous trip, never officially communicated,” he told assembled workforce. President Bio mandated this high-powered delegation balancing investment growth with fair labour practices. Early dialogue prevents industrial unrest, the Minister emphasised.

Workers voiced three major complaints. Plant Mechanic Augustine M. Frank described compulsory Saturday arrangements. Management allegedly persuaded employees accepting extra compensation promises, then submitted agreement documents to Labour Congress without full consent. Staff tried reviewing that deal, but there was no success. Some employees fear victimisation for speaking up.

Maintenance’s Patrick Mani John highlighted safety failures: multiple workplace and transport accidents. Overloaded trucks and tractors carry personnel, causing serious injuries. Excessive dust pollution affects nearby communities. Missing speed bumps, narrow bridges, and absent road signage compound risks.

Security Officer Morrison K. Lahai criticised poor employer-employee communication. Irregular salary payments and wrongful deductions for alleged absenteeism plague staff. Many fear reprisal voicing complaints.

Deputy Director Abdulai Conteh clarified that leave entitlement depends on service length plus contract terms. Section 26(1) of Sierra Leone’s 1991 Constitution grants every employee union formation rights. Lawful procedures, clear governance structures, and ministry registration secure formal recognition.

Minister Swaray tackled localisation. The government strengthens monitoring mechanisms, ensuring qualified Sierra Leoneans fill positions currently held by foreign experts. “Roles our people competently perform won’t go unnecessarily to expatriates,” he affirmed. Work permit enforcement intensifies.

Managing Director Kwame Waife acknowledged all grievances. “Not every issue finds immediate resolution – we await Ministry’s comprehensive report and will respond decisively.” Management will strengthen relationships with both workforce and community despite operational challenges.

The session ended positively. Handshakes exchanged. Renewed optimism for safer, more productive working environment at Sierra Tropical Limited.

Senior Correspondent-Komba P. Mattia