By Mo Hamad Kargbo
The National Social Security and Insurance Trust (NASSIT) is set to launch a new mobile application aimed at making pension and social security services faster, easier and more accessible to pensioners and contributors across Sierra Leone.
The initiative forms part of NASSIT’s ongoing digital transformation programme and is expected to reduce the need for pensioners to endure long queues, travel long distances or spend additional money on transportation to access services.
According to a detailed video released by NASSIT on the new pension administration system, the application will provide users with a range of self-service options, allowing them to access important services from the convenience of their homes.
NASSIT described the initiative as a major change in the way it delivers services, promising a pension administration system that is “quicker, flexible and easy” to use.
Through the mobile application and self-service portal, users will be able to pay contributions, track and monitor their funds, update personal records, plan for retirement and access other NASSIT services without having to physically visit NASSIT offices.
The system will also allow pensioners and contributors to view their statements, check their list of dependents and project their expected benefits through the NASSIT mobile application.
NASSIT further explained that the new system will integrate mobile money services, enabling users to conveniently access benefits and make transactions through platforms such as Orange Money, Africell Money and QMoney.
For users without internet connectivity, NASSIT said it will provide services through USSD, allowing contributors to make payments and obtain information about their contributions using a simple mobile phone code.
The digital system is also expected to facilitate direct bank transfers, reducing the need for beneficiaries to travel to banks and wait in long queues.
Another feature highlighted by NASSIT is the introduction of regular SMS and email notifications. Users will receive updates on transactions made on their accounts, providing them with timely information about their contributions and benefits.
The new system will also introduce digital identity verification, with users expected to be able to verify their identities using biometric features such as voice recognition or fingerprints.
NASSIT said the transformation is designed with pensioners and contributors at the centre, stressing that customer satisfaction and easier access to services remain key motivations behind the initiative.
The Trust encouraged users to stay informed as it prepares to roll out the mobile application, which it says will bring its pension services closer to the people and reduce some of the challenges associated with accessing its services through traditional methods.
The launch of the application represents another step in NASSIT’s digital transformation drive, with the institution seeking to provide more convenient, efficient and technology-driven services to pensioners and contributors across the country.
