On 31st March 2020 the Government of Sierra Leone announced the first confirmed COVID-19 case in Sierra Leone. Consequent upon the said announcement, several measures have been taken by the Government to contain the spread and this includes but not limited to the imposition of a curfew, movement of goods, services and persons restricted, a ban on international travel both in and out of Sierra Leone, phased lockdowns and the declaration of a state of public health emergency pursuant to section (29)(1) of the Constitution of Sierra Leone Act No. 6 of 1991 (as amended). The debilitating effect on the economy continues to be felt and the squeeze on businesses large and small grows exponentially with each new day. In simple terms, the health pandemic has brought on a financial crisis and the combination of both is most unpleasant. The ramifications of the unholy duo in less robust economies such as Sierra Leone and its lingering effect will undoubtedly be far reaching and long lasting, perhaps even more than Ebola. Medium and small-scale businesses will feel the weight of the moment even more than others with time. Failing to prepare for what lies ahead will be preparing to fail. Unlike other jurisdictions that have instituted far reaching measures to cushion the effect of the pandemic such as holidays or deferment of payment with regards to statutory compliance obligations, Sierra Leone is behind that curve. With regards to social security, understanding one’s obligations as an employer and preparing for what lies ahead in the era of COVID-19 will be an advantage.
