Sidumisile Mabena
Mbulelo Mpofu, Zimpapers Reporter
RESPONDING to questions from the Zimbabwe National Pensioners Forum Trust (ZNPFT), the National Social Security Authority (NSSA) has informed pensioners that an internal actuarial department has been established to expedite scheme evaluations and improve pension management efficiency.
This came out during a meeting that was held in Bulawayo last Monday, which was attended by the Minister of Public Service, Labour and Social Welfare, Edgar Moyo, alongside the executive management of the NSSA.
During deliberations, NSSA also committed to recapitalising the loan fund to enable more pensioners to access financial support simultaneously.
Discussions are also underway regarding the provision of mobility devices for pensioners, subject to individual assessments.
The meeting reaffirmed the ongoing Quarterly Review of Payouts based on actuarial evaluations to ensure the pension scheme’s sustainability.
Minister Moyo provided an update on the NSSA Amendment Bill, emphasising that while progress requires time, stakeholders will be kept informed throughout the process.
NSSA General Manager, Mr Charles Shava, addressed concerns about the pensioner loan facility.
“The loans function as a revolving fund and would soon reopen for applications, alleviating fears about limited access to necessary financial resources. Participating banks in this initiative include POSB, NBS, ZB, and Ecocash, with advanced discussions underway with CBZ for further collaborations,” he said.
Both Minister Moyo and NSSA management acknowledged pensioners’ requests for increased benefits, including adjustments to the funeral grant, promising to communicate outcomes once evaluations are complete.
The meeting, themed “Dialogue for dignified living for pensioners,” brought together government officials, NSSA executives, and pension representatives to engage in meaningful dialogue aimed at enhancing the quality of life for Zimbabwe’s retirees.
Attendees included NSSA General Manager Charles Shava, NSSA Director of Benefits, Actuarial and Schemes Development Shepherd Muperi, Acting Director Occupational Safety and Health (OSH) Betty Nyereyegona, National Chairperson of the Pensioners Forum Winos Dube, and eleven other executive members of the Forum. – Follow on X @MbuleloMpofu
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