Sierra Leone is a beautiful and developing country in West Africa. Freetown, the capital of Sierra Leone, is a busy and colorful place with more than one million people. English is the official language, and Krio, an English-based creole, is spoken by more than 87% of Leoneans. Sierra Leone’s primary exports are fish and seafood, which represent 20.2% of the country’s total exports. The country also exports minerals, cocoa, wood for machinery, food products, as well as minerals and precious stones such as gold, diamonds and iron.
Employment Contracts
In Sierra Leone, employment contracts can either be verbal or in writing. Verbal contracts cannot exceed six months and the employee must understand the terms of the contract in their local language.
Employment contracts can be for a definite (fixed) or an indefinite term. A fixed-term contract cannot exceed one year. A written employment contract should include the identity of the parties, the place of work, job description, starting date of employment, duration of the contract, remuneration and working hours. In a written, fixed-term contract the employee must be able to read and understand the terms. Alternatively, the contract terms can be read to the employee and attested to by a magistrate.
If the contract does not specify a duration or end date, it will be deemed to be an employment contract for an indefinite period.
The probation period is usually determined by collective or employment agreement.
Public Holidays
- New Year’s Day
- International Women’s Day
- Good Friday
- Easter Monday
- Independence Day
- Eid al-Fitr
- Eid al-Adha
- Mawlid
- Christmas
- Boxing Day
Compensation
Bonuses are not required. Sierra Leone has a minimum wage.
Working Hours
Paid at a rate of 25% over the standard wage. Overtime performed during rest days and holidays will be paid at a rate of 50%. Women and employees less than 18 years old are prohibited from working at night.
Vacation Leave
Employees are entitled to 19 days paid annual leave, which increases to 22 days after five years of service and then 28 days after 10 years.
Sick Leave
Entitlement to sick leave is generally governed by collective agreement or the employment contract. Employees generally receive at least five paid sick leave days annually.
Maternity / Paternity Leave
Female employees are entitled to 12 weeks of paid maternity leave. The employer pays the leave unless otherwise agreed in a collective agreement.
There is no paternity leave in Sierra Leone.
Employment Termination / Severance
An employment contract in Sierra Leone can be terminated at the end of the contract period (if for a fixed term) by the employer or the employee. Fixed-term employment contracts terminate at the end of the term. There is no notice period.
An employer and employee can terminate an employment contract without providing notice during the probation period unless there is an individual or collective agreement that requires notice. The probation period cannot exceed six months. Severance is generally determined by individual and collective bargaining agreements.
Health Insurance Benefits
Private healthcare insurance is recommended.