The highest paid pensioner in Ghana currently receives 213000 cedis monthly, while the oldest male pensioner is 115 years old and the oldest female pensioner is 100 years old. The revelation was made in Takoradi by Lord Koroama, Public Affairs Manager of the Social Security and National Insurance Trust, during a public engagement on pension sustainability. He said the figures reflect contribution history and longevity of beneficiaries.
Lord Koroama disclosed that the 213000 cedis monthly payout goes to a highly consistent contributor who earned high salaries and contributed for many years without breaks. He explained that the 115 year old male and 100 year old female pensioners continue to receive monthly benefits because SSNIT pensions are for life. The Trust pays over 250000 pensioners nationwide each month.
The announcement has sparked debate on social media about pension equity and the value of long term social security planning. Many young workers questioned whether current salaries can ever produce such high pensions. SSNIT officials used the platform to urge informal sector workers to join and top up contributions, noting that low contributions lead to low pensions.
SSNIT is Ghana mandatory social security scheme established under Act 766 which requires employers to contribute 13 percent and employees 5.5 percent of basic salary monthly. The Trust operates a defined benefit scheme where pension is calculated using average best 3 years salary times years of service. Like the Computerized School Selection and Placement System which determines second cycle school placement, WASSCE grading from A1 to F9 for academic progression, Free SHS policy which funds secondary education, Energy Commission licensing for certified electricians and Galamsey laws under the Minerals and Mining Act 2006, SSNIT depends on compliance and verification to sustain payouts, and according to Lord Koroama Public Affairs Manager of SSNIT the 213000 cedis figure proves that consistency pays.
The Trust has faced public scrutiny over low minimum pensions which currently stand around 300 cedis for many retirees who earned low wages. Management says it is rolling out the Self Employed Enrolment Drive to expand coverage to market women, drivers and artisans. Actuarial reviews are also conducted every 3 years to ensure long term solvency as life expectancy rises.
Pensioners at the forum called for faster biometric verification and improved health support for aged members. SSNIT said it will continue monthly verification through Ghana Card linkage and mobile payment to reduce delays. The 100 year old female and 115 year old male pensioners were cited as examples of lifetime security the scheme guarantees.
Source: #Howedey.com
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Author: Korkor Anumu
