Retirees welcome digital pension verification

DODOMA: THE pension funds have improved their ICT systems, which facilitates the verification of retirees using fingerprint technology instead of travelling long distances for the same.

Deputy Minister for Land, Housing and Settlements Development, Mr Geofrey Pinda said in the National Assembly yesterday that the new system is a relief to the retirees since it saves time and cost of traveling. He was responding to a question posed by Liwale MP, Zuber Kuchauka regarding the matter.

Mr Pinda responded the question on behalf of the Minister of State in the Prime Minister’s Office (Labour, Youth, Employment and Persons with Disabilities).

In his basic primary question, the lawmaker wanted the government to explain when the verification of retirees’ exercise would be conducted at the district level instead of regional level as is currently the case.

ALSO READ: UDOM, ICT Commission agree to establish digital innovation hub

He wanted the government to relieve retirees from the burden of traveling long distances. In response, the deputy minister said in ensuring that retirees receive quality services, Pension Funds have improved their ICT systems, which facilitates the verification of retirees using fingerprint technology.

According to Pinda, the improvements have enabled retirees to verify themselves using smartphones without having to visit pension fund offices.

“For retirees who do not have smartphones, verification continues to be conducted at Pension Fund offices located in both regions and districts,” the deputy minister added.

He explained that for the retirees facing health challenges, verification is done at their homes. Moreover, MP Kuchauka expressed gratitude to the government answers and promised to pass information and education to the retirees regarding the matter.

“The explanations are perfect but I would like to congratulate the government for taking a good care of the retirees,” he said.