Informal sector holds key to SSNIT operations

The Director General of the Social Security and National Insurance Trust (SSNIT), Kofi Osafo-Maafo, says  there is renewed efforts to onboard more informal sector workers, describing the sector as a vital component of the organisation’s future operations. 

Speaking at the inauguration of the new on the Spintex road in Accra, he said the expansion of the new branch was in furtherance to the organisations strategic direction to reach out to the informal sector across the length and breadth of the country.

“We started this initiative with about 13,000 members and have now grown to over 120,000 participants. This is significant progress and we are optimistic about further growth in this sector adding that there is no limit to the number of informal workers SSNIT will welcome into the scheme.”

“Our pension scheme is the best available in the country, offering life insurance and retirement benefits under a defined benefit structure. This means members can predict their entitlements at any point, giving them confidence in the future.”

Landmark for business growth

The new branch at Spintex, strategically located on one of Accra’s busiest roads and a hub for manufacturing and retail, is expected to serve as a crucial addition to SSNIT’s operations.

Mr Osafo-Maafo commended the efforts of SSNIT workers in bringing the project to fruition and urged residents along the Spintex road and its environs to patronise the services of the pension scheme.

“The Spintex Road is an essential commercial corridor, and having a branch here positions us closer to businesses and individuals who need our services. This move represents a significant step toward achieving our mission of extending social security coverage to all workers in Ghana,” he said.

As part of the official commissioning of the project, there was a health walk from Tema to the Spintex road branch of the organisation which saw enthusiastic participation from SSNIT staff, partners, and members of the public, emphasising the organisation’s commitment to engaging with its stakeholders, expanding its services and educating the public about Self Employed Enrolment Drive (SEED).

Looking ahead

The DG expressed optimism about SSNIT’s  future, with a vision of integrating more informal sector workers into its pension scheme. 

“We see this as a two way partnership. Informal workers contribute to our operations, and in turn, we provide them with financial security and other benefits. People should not think SSNIT is for public sector workers only but is for all Ghanaians.”

The Spintex branch, with its modern facilities and strategic location, is expected to bring substantial growth in membership and contribute significantly to SSNIT’s overarching goal of providing comprehensive social security for all Ghanaians.