By Sabri Dibaco
The Ministry of Labour has pledged to work with the National Social Insurance Fund (NSIF) and other stakeholders to address misunderstandings surrounding contributions and protect the interests of employees.
The commitment was made by the newly appointed Under-Secretary of the Ministry of Labour, Deborah Akech Koucnin, during a handover ceremony in Juba, where she said concerns linked to the NSIF require consultation and dialogue rather than confrontation.
Deborah acknowledged that the issuance of Section No. 5 has created confusion among some employees and contributors and said the ministry is prepared to engage the relevant institutions to find a solution.
“There has been some misunderstanding among employees or contributors,” Deborah said.
She added that the Ministry of Labour and the NSIF institution would work together to address the matter while ensuring that the interests of workers and contributors are protected.
“This matter will be addressed through consultation and dialogue; our objective is to protect the interests of employees and contributors while ensuring that all institutions work together in accordance with the law,” Deborah stated
The National Social Insurance Fund is part of the wider social protection system intended to provide health-related insurance support to eligible contributors. However, concerns over contributions and the implementation of Section No. 5 have reportedly raised questions among some employees and contributors.
The new Labour Ministry leadership says it will use consultation, dialogue, and existing administrative mechanisms to address labour-related concerns while awaiting the establishment of specialised labour courts.
The ministry has also identified peaceful labour relations, protection of workers, decent work, and stronger cooperation between employers and employees as key areas of focus.
The under-secretary called on staff and relevant institutions to work together to strengthen labour administration and resolve outstanding issues within the framework of the law.