The Social Security and National Insurance Trust (SSNIT) has stepped up its efforts to improve service delivery through digitalization while simultaneously targeting the enrollment of individuals in the informal sector.
This strategic move follows SSNIT’s successful efforts to scale up its operations, resulting in a significant increase in enrollment numbers since last year.
During the launch of its new digital platforms at the Mobile Service Week in the Central Region, SSNIT’s Director General, Kofi Bosompem Osafo-Maafo, announced that a total of 100,000 new informal contributors have registered with SSNIT in the past year.
This achievement marks a significant milestone compared to the 13,000 informal contributors who were registered in the previous year following the rollout of the Self-Employed Enrollment Drive (SEED) program.
“The SEED program is specifically designed to facilitate the enrollment of informal sector workers. [This is] to ensure that they have access to the same security and benefits as their counterparts in the formal sector.”
Kofi Bosompem Osafo-Maafo, SSNIT’s Director General
Mr. Osafo-Maafo emphasized that while the informal sector currently represents just one percent of SSNIT’s total contributors, the organization is committed to increasing this figure significantly.
Digitalization is at the core of SSNIT’s strategy to enhance service delivery and make its services more accessible to all Ghanaians.
According to Mr. Osafo-Maafo, the introduction of digital platforms is expected to facilitate a range of services, including self-enrollment, tracking of contributions, and access to other essential SSNIT services. These digital tools are intended to streamline processes and ensure that contributors can manage their accounts with ease, whether they are part of the formal or informal sector.
“The new digital platform will empower contributors to take control of their contributions and benefits, providing them with the tools they need to ensure their financial future,” Mr. Osafo-Maafo said.
Structural Reforms and Improved Service Delivery
Mr. Osafo-Maafo also noted that SSNIT has undergone significant structural reforms aimed at improving service delivery. These reforms have resulted in the prompt payment of benefits, which has been a key concern for many contributors.
By addressing these issues, SSNIT is working to build trust with both current and potential contributors, particularly those in the informal sector who may have previously been hesitant to join.
“SSNIT now offers the best pension benefits with the assurance of secure investments. We encourage all workers, particularly those in the informal sector, to join SSNIT and secure their future.”
Kofi Bosompem Osafo-Maafo, SSNIT’s Director General
The success of SSNIT’s recent enrollment efforts and the launch of the new digital platform signal a positive future for the organization. With the SEED program and digital tools in place, SSNIT is well-positioned to continue expanding its reach within the informal sector.
The organization’s commitment to improving service delivery through digitalization and structural reforms underscores its dedication to providing all Ghanaians with the security and benefits they deserve.
Felix Joseph Bruce-Smith, SSNIT’s Senior Manager for IT Applications Development, outlined the key features of the new digital platform during a media briefing. He highlighted that the platform offers a variety of services designed to make SSNIT’s services more accessible and user-friendly.
One of the standout features of the digital platform is the integration with the Ghana Card, which streamlines the enrollment process. This integration allows new members to sign up quickly and securely, eliminating much of the paperwork and time-consuming processes previously associated with SSNIT enrollment.
SSNIT’s push towards digitalization and its focus on the informal sector are crucial steps in ensuring that all Ghanaians have access to a reliable and secure pension system. As these initiatives continue to roll out, they hold the promise of transforming the landscape of social security in Ghana, offering hope and security to millions of workers in the informal economy.
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