Africa-Press – Sierra-Leone. Senior All People’s Congress (APC) member Dr. Sylvia Olayinka Blyden has engaged the Ministry of Employment, Labour and Social Security over concerns that taxation on Sierra Leone’s proposed new minimum wage could reduce its intended benefit to workers.
In a statement shared on her social media on Friday, 2 January 2026, Blyden disclosed that she held discussions with the Minister of Employment, Labour and Social Security, Mohamed Rahman Swaray, regarding deductions that may apply to the proposed monthly minimum wage of NLe 1,200. The new wage, which represents an increase from the current NLe 800, is expected to take effect in April 2026.
According to Blyden, both the Labour Ministry and the Ministry of Finance have agreed to work with Parliament to review the taxation framework associated with the proposed wage adjustment. She indicated that her engagement is aimed at ensuring the wage increase translates into meaningful improvements in workers’ take-home pay.
The proposed minimum wage hike has generated public discussion, with labour groups and citizens expressing concerns that existing taxes and statutory deductions could significantly reduce net earnings, thereby limiting the impact of the increase.
The Ministry of Employment, Labour and Social Security has confirmed that it is collaborating with the Ministry of Finance to develop proposals for parliamentary consideration.
Any changes to tax measures related to wages would require approval by Parliament, in line with constitutional procedures.
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