Social security funds faulted over benefits

By The guardian reporter
3rd May 2011

Civic United Front (CUF) national chairman Prof Ibrahim Lipumba has raised concerns over deep-rooted bureaucracy in social security funds, saying they make the members unable to benefit from their own contributions.

The politician, who was giving his views on Sunday on a local TV station on marking the International Workers Day (May Day), said it was difficult for the workers to reclaim their contributions after resigning or retiring from work.

“When one resigns from work, retires or dies, it is extremely difficult for his funds to be obtained from the respective social security fund,” said Lipumba.

He further said that while members of the funds were living in a hard way, those working in the funds were wallowing in luxury.

“It is as if these funds are meant to benefit the few who run the funds and not the workers who contributes to them,” the Prof said.

He said the funds were very important and critical for the social well-being of the world's community.

Lipumba cited benefits workers in Singapore enjoy from their social security funds, saying the members have benefited a lot, with the majority having modern homes, enjoys excellent heath services and are able to fund their children’s education.

He said political interference was the major bottleneck in the efficient functioning of the funds in Tanzania.
SOURCE: THE GUARDIAN