The Social Security and National Insurance Trust (SSNIT) has cautioned pensioners to comply with the mandatory annual pensioner certificate renewal exercise or risk being deactivated from the pension payroll.
According to SSNIT, the annual certification exercise is part of measures to protect the integrity of Ghana’s pension system and ensure that payments are made only to eligible beneficiaries.
Speaking to the media, Deputy Director-General in charge of Operations and Benefits at SSNIT, Adams Sulley, said the exercise is designed to strengthen beneficiary verification and prevent invalid pension payments.
“The annual pensioner certificate renewal is an important part of our efforts to ensure that only eligible beneficiaries remain on the pension payroll,” Mr. Sulley said.
He explained that the system would help SSNIT identify and prevent payments to ineligible beneficiaries while improving the efficiency of pension administration.
“We are using technology to make the verification process more efficient and convenient for pensioners, while also protecting the sustainability of the pension fund,” he added.
Virtual Branch to Ease Access
As part of its digital transformation drive, SSNIT has also introduced a Virtual Branch to enable contributors and pensioners to access selected services remotely. The platform allows users to update personal information and conduct certain transactions without necessarily visiting a physical SSNIT office.
SSNIT says the initiative is expected to improve access to its services, particularly for pensioners who may face challenges travelling to its offices.
Medical Support Programme Welcomed
Meanwhile, the Regional Chairman of the Ghana National Pensioners Association in the Western Region, Anthony Essien, said SSNIT has enrolled pensioners onto a medical support programme to assist with their healthcare needs.
He noted that the initiative is especially significant because some medicines prescribed for pensioners are not covered under the National Health Insurance Scheme (NHIS).
“There are some medicines that doctors prescribe for pensioners which are not covered by the National Health Insurance Scheme. This support therefore comes as a relief to many of our members,” Mr. Essien said.
He added that the medical support would help ease the financial burden on pensioners, many of whom require regular medication and healthcare services.
The pensioners’ association has welcomed the initiative and called for continued support to improve the welfare of retired workers.
By Portia Cudjoe
