As Ghana’s Social Security and National Insurance Trust (SSNIT) marks its 60th anniversary, the institution is making a bold call for the country’s pension laws to evolve with the changing world of work.
The Director-General of SSNIT, Mr. Kwesi Afreh Biney, has urged policymakers to revise the National Pensions Act, 2008 (Act 766), to capture modern employment trends such as gig work, digital entrepreneurship, and remote jobs.
According to him, Ghana’s current pension framework remains too rigid to accommodate the growing diversity of labour in today’s economy—particularly among young Ghanaians who are earning a living through online platforms, freelancing, or self-employment.
“We must ensure that the National Pensions Act evolves to reflect new forms of work such as the gig economy, digital entrepreneurship, and remote employment. A more adaptive legal framework will help us protect all workers, regardless of where they work.”
Mr. Kwesi Afreh Biney
The Missing Millions: Gig Workers Outside the Pension Net
In Ghana, a significant number of people now operate outside traditional employment systems. From ride-hailing drivers and delivery personnel to social media influencers and software developers, the rise of gig work and digital entrepreneurship has transformed the labour market.
However, under the existing law, these individuals often do not contribute to or benefit from SSNIT’s pension scheme. The result is that millions of active workers may reach retirement age without any form of social protection or guaranteed income.
Mr. Biney warned that this gap poses a long-term social and economic risk, as the absence of structured savings mechanisms for these groups could increase old-age poverty and strain public welfare systems in the future.
“The world of work is evolving, and our laws must evolve with it. A modernised pension system is key to ensuring that no Ghanaian worker is left behind.”
Mr. Kwesi Afreh Biney
SSNIT’s proposal to revise the National Pensions Act is more than just an administrative adjustment—it represents a reimagining of social security in the digital age. By advocating for amendments to Act 766, the Trust aims to expand the definition of eligible contributors to include individuals who operate outside traditional employer-employee relationships.
This could involve flexible contribution plans tailored to the irregular income patterns typical of gig and freelance work. Such reform would make it easier for self-employed and remote workers to participate in the national pension scheme without facing undue financial burden.
Legal experts and labour economists agree that Ghana’s pension framework must adapt quickly if it is to remain relevant in a global economy increasingly shaped by technology and non-standard work arrangements.
SSNIT’s Drive Toward Inclusion and Innovation
Beyond pushing for legislative changes, SSNIT is already implementing measures to widen pension coverage across the informal sector. The Trust has intensified efforts to engage traders, artisans, farmers, and other self-employed Ghanaians who traditionally fall outside the pension bracket.
Mr. Biney revealed that SSNIT is leveraging technology to simplify registration, payment, and data management systems, ensuring that contributors—regardless of location or profession—can conveniently access and manage their pensions.
“As we celebrate 60 years of service, we acknowledge the challenges that remain and commit to building a future defined by innovation, inclusion, and sustainability.”
Mr. Kwesi Afreh Biney
The Trust’s focus on digital transformation aligns with its broader strategy to enhance customer service, improve contributor confidence, and make pensions accessible to all workers—formal or informal.
Ghana’s labour market remains dominated by the informal sector, which accounts for more than 80 percent of total employment. Many of these workers earn daily or weekly incomes, often without structured savings or social insurance.
By integrating gig workers and digital entrepreneurs into the pension system, SSNIT seeks to create a safety net that not only guarantees income security in retirement but also promotes national financial stability. The move is expected to improve savings culture, reduce poverty in old age, and enhance social cohesion.
“The next 60 years must see an even stronger SSNIT—one that protects the Ghanaian worker, supports families, and strengthens the fabric of our society.”
Mr. Kwesi Afreh Biney
As SSNIT celebrates six decades of safeguarding the future of Ghanaian workers, a reformed National Pensions Act that embraces digital entrepreneurs, freelancers, and gig workers will ensure that social protection in Ghana keeps pace with economic transformation.
READ ALSO:Farmers Can Now Use Maize and Rice as Collateral — SEC Promotes GCX Advantage
