The Social Security Commission (SSC) on Thursday launched the construction for a new building in Otjiwarongo in the Otjozondjupa Region, valued at N.dollars 20 million.
Speaking at the launch, the Chairperson of the SSC Board of Commissioners, David /Uirab, said SSC’s principal goal is to extend coverage to the uninsured, ensuring that social security protection is available to all Namibians.
He stated that the opening of this office in Otjiwarongo is significant since it serves as a centre for not only the town, but also five other settlements in the surrounding area, including Outjo, Khorixas, Kamanjab, Okakarara and Kalkveld, where SSC has a significant number of active registered employees, employers, and other interest groups.
With a combined tally of close to 60 000 registered active employees and employers, these communities rely on the services and support provided by the SSC, he said.
“By bringing our services closer to these communities, we are bridging the gap and creating opportunities for individuals who may not have had access to social security coverage before,” he said.
/Uirab stated that with the new office, SSC would be able to improve service delivery by providing easier access to information, faster claim processing and personalized assistance for beneficiaries, as it is constantly striving to innovate and improve its processes in order to meet the evolving needs of those it serves.
Deputy Minister of Labour, Industrial Relations and Employment Creation, Hafeni Ndemula, said that the construction of the SSC’s new office building once again demonstrates the practical steps that the commission is taking in addressing the decentralisation programme in services delivery to the Namibian public.
‘’The Social Security Commission has taken a multi-faceted approach in ensuring that the flow of public at the SSC head office in Windhoek will see a reduction, and in so doing, assist the public effectively and timely in the area of Otjiwarongo,’’ he said.
On his part, Otjiwarongo Mayor, Gottlieb Shivute said that the new office will serve as a beacon of support, offering assistance, protection and empowerment to its citizens during times of need.
“This initiative aligns perfectly with our commitment to building a more inclusive and prosperous Otjiwarongo,” he said.
Source: The Namibian Press Agency