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Government has directed workers in the transport sector, including commuter omnibus drivers and conductors, to register with the National Social Security Authority (Nssa) as part of social protection measures being adopted to cater for them when they reach retirement age.
This is part of a robust social protection system that Government is adopting as it realises that informal sector players miss out on cushioning grants when they reach retirement age.
By law, every employee in formal employment should be registered with Nssa, have the requisite contributions and premiums paid for them to Nssa and be able to benefit from the National Pension Fund and Workers’ Compensation Fund when they retire or are injured in a work-related accident.
Already, Government is remodelling and professionalising the transport sector which has seen all commuter omnibuses (kombis) operating in the cities now required to join the Zimbabwe United Passenger Company ambit.
The new measures can also address unfair labour practices that are common in the sector where drivers and conductors can be fired willy-nilly without any recourse.
The Public Service, Labour and Social Welfare Ministry through Nssa and the Transport and Infrastructural Development Ministry have rolled out the programme to ensure that players in the transport sector are registered with Nssa, as a prerequisite for operating licences.
“Following a new policy directive to enhance safety and social security of the employees in this sector, the National Social Security Authority (Nssa) in partnership with the Transport and Infrastructure Development would like to advise all public and commercial road transport operators, that they are now required to be holders of a valid Nssa Clearance Certificate prior to the renewal of application of an operating transport permit or licence,” read a statement.
“All public and commercial road transport operators are therefore mandated to regularise their standing with Nssa to avoid delays in the issuance of their licences by the Ministry of Transport and Infrastructural Development.” Chronicle
