- SSNIT leads efforts to digitise Ghana’s social security services.
- The scheme covers both formal and self-employed workers nationwide.
SSNIT: Expands pension service coverage
The Social Security and National Insurance Trust (SSNIT) is Ghana’s statutory body responsible for managing the national pension scheme. SSNIT administers the First Tier of Ghana’s Three-Tier Pension Scheme under the National Pensions Act, 2008 (Act 766). It provides income security for workers by offering retirement, invalidity and survivors’ benefits.
Recently, SSNIT has focused on modernising its service delivery to address inefficiencies and boost coverage. As part of this, the Trust has implemented biometric systems and e-payment platforms, which improve the enrollment process and benefit payments. These changes are intended to attract informal sector workers, who remain largely outside the national insurance system.
The Trust also launched a self-service portal and mobile app, which allow members to access statements, update details and apply for pensions. These tools reflect an industry-wide shift to digital administration, which supports transparency and efficiency.
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SSNIT: Role in Ghana’s pension ecosystem
SSNIT plays a key role in providing social protection in Ghana. As of recent records, the scheme serves over 1.7 million active contributors and pays monthly pensions to more than 230,000 retirees. Yet, informal sector participation remains low. SSNIT aims to address this through targeted outreach and simplified registration procedures.
The pension industry across Africa faces broad challenges. Many schemes suffer from underfunding, low coverage, and delayed payments. Rising life expectancy and informal employment growth make sustainability harder.
SSNIT, by contrast, has adopted actuarial reviews and improved investment practices to remain solvent. It invests in real estate, equities, and government securities to sustain the fund. The Trust’s efforts to digitize and build public confidence set a benchmark for pension institutions across West Africa.
