NAIROBI, Kenya – The Central Organisation of Trade Unions (COTU) has thrown its weight behind the new National Social Security Fund (NSSF) deductions set to take effect this month, arguing that the increased contributions will benefit workers in the long run.
The changes, which will see both employees and employers contribute more to NSSF, have sparked public concern over reduced take-home pay.
However, COTU Secretary-General Francis Atwoli insists the adjustments are necessary to safeguard workers’ financial security after retirement.
“As the voice of Kenyan workers, we affirm that the full implementation of this Act is essential for securing workers’ financial futures,” Atwoli said.
He dismissed claims that the deductions amount to an additional tax burden, clarifying that NSSF is a structured, mandatory savings scheme designed to ensure a dignified retirement.
“Unfortunately, many of those politicizing NSSF contributions enjoy superior pension benefits or have assured income streams through their business ventures,” he said. “Attempts to misrepresent or politicize the revised NSSF rates only serve to mislead the public, hinder compliance, and jeopardize workers’ long-term financial security.”
Atwoli underscored that social security is a fundamental human right, citing International Labour Organization (ILO) Convention No. 102 (1952), which sets global minimum standards for social security.
He also referenced Kenya’s Constitution, which guarantees every citizen the right to pension and social security under Article 43.
He urged the government, employers, and other stakeholders to support and strengthen social security measures, arguing that anyone who genuinely cares about workers should endorse NSSF’s role in eliminating old-age poverty.
“A well-structured pension system provides both a lump sum payout and a monthly pension, allowing retirees to maintain a decent standard of living,” he said, adding that the ILO recommends retirees receive at least 40-60% of their pre-retirement income.
CONTINUOUS IMPLEMENTATION OF THE NSSF ACT(2013) IS BENEFICIAL TO WORKERS The Central Organization of Trade Unions (Kenya), COTU (K)has noted with concern the misinformation and political narratives surrounding the continued implementation of the National Social Security Fund…
COTU further called on workers to disregard opposition to the NSSF Act (2013), warning that such resistance threatens their financial well-being in retirement.
“Kenyan workers must recognize that true allies are those advocating for a better future, particularly their social protection after retirement,” COTU stated.
Atwoli also noted that Kenya lags behind its East African counterparts in social security contributions.
While Kenya’s NSSF rates are set at 12% (6% employer, 6% employee), Uganda mandates a 15% contribution (10% employer, 5% employee), and Tanzania requires an even higher rate of 20% (10% employer, 10% employee).
With the implementation of the revised deductions now in effect, the debate over the balance between immediate earnings and long-term financial security is likely to continue.
