The Ministry of Labour has honored eleven (11) of its former employees who were officially retired in 2024 after fulfilling the requirements set forth by the Civil Service Standing Orders. At a special Recognition and Honoring Ceremony held at the EJS Ministerial Complex in Congo Town, Labour Minister Cllr. Cooper W. Kruah, Sr. praised the retirees for their dedicated service and peaceful transition from government, describing their retirement as “honorable and dignified.”
“It is important because this is an honorable retirement for these dedicated and committed former employees of the Ministry,” Minister Kruah stated. “Even though you have received your handshake from the Civil Service Agency (CSA), we instructed our HR Division to organize this program to honor and appreciate you for your years of service.
We are certifying you and providing US$250.00 each to assist with transportation,” he added. Minister Kruah emphasized that although the retirements were effected by the CSA in 2024, it was equally necessary for the Ministry to recognize and appreciate the retirees’ contributions. He further assured that the Ministry would continue to call on their expertise when needed. Representing CSA Director General, Mr. Rufus M. Johnson, Director of Welfare at CSA, lauded the retirees for their commitment, discipline, and patriotism, which he said had meaningfully advanced both the Ministry’s mission and the employment goals of national development.
He, however, noted that retirement in Liberia and other African countries often comes with challenges due to low or delayed pensions. Speaking on behalf of the honorees, Madam Emma L. Benson, former Director of the HIV/AIDS Division at the Ministry, expressed heartfelt gratitude to Minister Kruah and his team for the recognition. She also made recommendations aimed at strengthening the civil service, including:
1. Merit-based promotions to ensure vacancies are filled by qualified staff in line rather than outsiders. 2. Addressing salary disparities so that directors and assistant directors with similar qualifications are equally compensated.
3. Establishing a uniform retirement age across all ministries and agencies.
4. Expanding training opportunities for all civil servants.
5. Providing buses to ease employees’ transportation challenges. The program was attended by officials and employees of the Ministry of Labour, representatives of the Civil Service Agency (CSA), the National Social Security and Welfare Corporation (NASSCORP), family members, and friends of the honorees.
