The World Bank’s Senior Social Protection Specialist, Dr. Abu Kargbo, has on behalf of the Bank, made a courtesy call on the Minister of Employment, Labour and Social Security, Honourable Mohamed Rahman Swaray, to further build on their friendship and partnership ties.
Dr Abu, while congratulating the minister on his appointment, noted that he has no doubts about what the latter would do at the ministry given his background and drive for results.
He noted that the Bank has over the years enjoyed cordial and fruitful relationship with the ministry, adding that the ministry has been a consistent and supportive partner, not just in labour issues, but to the Bank itself.
“We have worked with the ministry in the area of policy and targeting the aged, amongst others. I hope that this partnership will be further strengthened,” Dr Abu said.
The World Bank Social Protection Specialist stated that he was specifically impressed with the Labour ministry’s dedication and performance at the Inter-Agency Forum (IAF) which is co-chaired by the Minister of Employment, Labour and Social Security.
The IAF is a body comprising of all social protection agencies across Ministries, Departments and Agencies.
The Forum meets once yearly to receive updates on agencies’ social protection activities, discuss successes, challenges and map the way forward in implementing social protection activities across the country.
It is chaired by the Vice President, alongside the Minister of Labour.
Dr Abu reaffirmed the World Bank’s commitment to supporting the Government in any possible way and at all times.
In his response, the minister observed that he was not surprised about the conduct of the ministry at the IAF because “my predecessor is a passionate man when it comes to social protection and social security issues.”
He expressed gratitude to the Bank for its support to government initiatives across all sectors.
“If an award were to be given, you will be an automatic awardee because your support has been tremendous to the social protection arm of the ministry, and generally, the government,” Minister Rahman said.