Labour Ministry Inspects Factories Along Masiaka-Waterloo HighwayThe Ministry of Employment, Labour and Social Security has intensified efforts to enforce labour laws following an inspection exercise along the Masiaka–Waterloo Highway that uncovered work permit and workplace safety violations at several companies.
The inspection, conducted on Monday, 22 June 2026, was led by the Commissioner of Labour and Employment alongside senior ministry officials. The exercise formed part of ongoing monitoring efforts aimed at ensuring compliance with the Work Permit Act, 2023, and other labour regulations.
During a visit to Brama GQ Trading Limited, inspectors discovered that a number of foreign employees were working without valid work permits.
The Commissioner issued a warning to the company and directed that the affected workers regularise their status within seven days.
Officials cautioned that failure to comply with the directive could result in the suspension of the company’s operations and other penalties provided under the law.
The inspection team also carried out spot checks at Roklyn and Co. and Shop Slipper Manufacturing, where concerns were raised over compliance with occupational health and safety standards.
Following the assessment, one of the factories was served with an Improvement Notice requiring management to address identified deficiencies and implement corrective measures to provide a safer and healthier working environment for employees.
Speaking during the exercise, the Commissioner stressed that adherence to Sierra Leone’s work permit regulations is mandatory and remains a key component of government efforts to regulate the employment of foreign nationals while safeguarding opportunities for local workers.
He urged employers to ensure that all foreign employees possess valid work permits and that such permits are renewed in accordance with national laws.
The Ministry said the inspections are part of broader initiatives to promote decent work, strengthen workplace safety standards, and ensure compliance with employment regulations across the country.
It further warned employers and business establishments nationwide that stricter enforcement measures will be implemented in the coming months. Companies found employing foreign nationals without valid documentation could face fines, administrative sanctions, suspension of operations, and other legal consequences under the Work Permit Act, 2023.
According to the Ministry, the government remains committed to ensuring that all foreign workers operating in Sierra Leone are properly documented and lawfully employed.
