The Social Security and National Insurance Trust (SSNIT) is ramping up efforts to enrol self-employed individuals in the Upper West Region in its pension scheme, the Self-Employed Enrollment Drive (SEED).
This initiative is part of SSNIT’s broader strategy to extend social security benefits to the informal sector, which has traditionally been underserved.
Victoria Gifty Abaidoo, SSNIT’s Corporate Affairs Manager, is leading the campaign, assuring potential enrollees that the registration process is simple.
“If you want to register, you just need to come with your NIA card or Ghana card, and we will register you,” Abaidoo stated.
The SEED scheme is available to individuals aged 15 to 45 and aims to include a wide range of self-employed workers.
This initiative addresses the lack of pension coverage for a significant portion of Ghana’s informal workforce.
Since its launch, the scheme has seen notable success. “When we launched the scheme in Kumasi last year, just about 13,000 self-employed individuals enrolled,” Abaidoo noted.
“But as of today, we have over 100,000 self-employed people enrolled in the scheme.”
This growth underscores the increasing awareness and interest among self-employed workers in securing their financial future through SSNIT.
SSNIT has established registration points across various regions to streamline the enrolment process, making it easier for self-employed individuals to sign up.
Abaidoo emphasized the convenience of the process, urging more people to participate.
“We are here, settled, and ready to help anyone who wants to join the scheme. All you need is your Ghana card, and we’ll take care of the rest,” she said.
The SSNIT pension scheme provides several key benefits, including a lifetime pension after retirement, an invalidity pension for those who can no longer work due to illness, and survivors’ benefits for dependents in the event of a member’s death.
Abaidoo highlighted the importance of regular contributions to maximize these benefits.
“It is not only important for you to register. After you have registered, ensure that your contributions come in every month. That is what will secure your future,” she advised.
