By Alpha Abu
The Deputy Director of the National Social Security and Insurance Trust (NASSIT) Mohamed Kondoh noted compliance from would- be subscribers to the scheme as a key challenge facing the institution.
Kondoh, who was addressing Journalists and Civil Society Activists in Bo, at a retreat by the Ministry of Information and Communications, said there was need to enforce compliance. He said in a bid to address the problem, NASSIT has set up a special Saturday Court that specifically handles cases related to employers reneging on honouring payment of workers’ contributions.
He stated that individuals and institutions have been prosecuted for default from which billions of Leones have been retrieved. The deputy director admitted NASSIT still faces problems with some government offices as well, as the issue of compliance.
Kondoh highlighted the steps taken by the leadership of the Trust such as establishing of Mobile Clinics and Street Campaigns to create greater public awareness on the services offered and the essence of joining the scheme. He also spoke about how NASSIT has ensured the availability of a reconstituted Medical Board to address cases of invalidity of clients, which helps the NASSIT management determine the right decisions in dealing with cases. There is also the presence of an Appeal Tribunal headed by a Judge that sits on cases.
According to Kondoh, the number of people registered with NASSIT as at 21 October, 2021 stood at 259,042. He explained to the media practitioners and activists, about steps being taken to have offices in various parts of the country and used the opportunity to disclose that the construction of NASSIT’s North-West regional office in Port Loko has been completed, and that the new structure will be opened soon.
He also spoke about the start of construction of a NASSIT Sub- Office in Moyamba in the south of the country.
NASSIT was the brainchild of late President Ahmad Tejan Kabba who wanted an improved scheme for workers in post-war Sierra Leone. The establishment came into existence through the National Social Security and Insurance Trust Act of 2001. The scheme addresses benefits issues of Pensioners, Workers and their Dependants, which are related to retirement, invalidity or death.
Copyright © Politico Online 06/12/21
