This initiative aims to make sure that all workers, especially those who are self-employed, have access to social security coverage.

To promote the initiative, SSNIT staff have been touring the country to raise awareness about SEED and to educate potential members on the benefits and value of the SSNIT Scheme.

Part of this effort involves the ongoing nationwide campaign dubbed "Operation-A-Thon," which aims to sensitize self- employed individuals about the advantages of joining the Scheme.

Last Friday, a vibrant float organized in Somanya garnered significant attention as self-employed workers from the area, including those from surrounding towns such as Agormanya, were informed about the benefits of the SSNIT Scheme. The float concluded at the Lower Manya Krobo Municipal Assembly grounds, where participants were encouraged to enroll in the programme and take advantage of its benefits.

During the event, SSNIT staff from Accra, Koforidua, and Somanya actively engaged potential members by distributing flyers and showcasing placards with messages highlighting key benefits of the SSNIT Scheme.

Some of the messages included, "The only scheme that provides you with life insurance at no extra cost," "Bring 13.5 per cent of your income and get up to 60 per cent of your income," and "Join SSNIT and get free National Health Insurance."

The float was enlivened by brass band music and provided opportunities for one-on-one discussions about the various advantages of the SSNIT programme.

Mr. Joseph Poku, SSNIT Chief Actuary, addressed the media, pointing out the significance of ensuring that self- employed individuals can secure a pension upon retirement.
He said that prior to the introduction of SEED, approximately 14,000 self-employed individuals had enrolled in the scheme.

However, as of October 2024, that number had risen to 120,000, with projections suggesting that over 200,000 individuals could sign up by next year due to increasing awareness.

"The awareness has a multiplier impact," he noted. "Once people hear about it, they go out and spread the good word, leading to more sign-ups."
He further explained that by enrolling in the SSNIT Scheme, individuals could secure their financial future and alleviate the burden on their families after retirement.

Additionally, he stated that the government's poverty alleviation efforts would benefit from increased enrolment. Highlighting the unique offerings of the SSNIT Scheme, Mr. Poku indicated that no other organization in Ghana provided the range of benefits and contributions offered by SSNIT.

With 67 per cent of the workforce in the informal sector or self-employed, he urged individuals to take advantage of the protective safety net provided by the Scheme.

"Once you join the system and qualify for a pension, we will pay you until you die," he stated, affirming the Scheme's commitment to reliable benefit payments. "SSNIT has never failed on benefit payments."

Operation-A-Thon is part of SSNIT's broader efforts to raise awareness about the importance of social security for self- employed individuals and has already taken place in cities including Wa, Techiman, Tarkwa, Koforidua, and Obuasi.