Gov’t clears SSNIT arrears, boosts funding for free SHS

Finance Minister Dr. Cassiel Ato Forson assured the new Board of Trustees of SSNIT. He stated that the government has met all financial obligations to the pension fund.

At an inauguration ceremony in Accra, Dr. Forson emphasized the government's commitment to Ghana's pension system. He said, “We are current on all payments due to SSNIT.” He added that they will continue honoring these obligations for Ghanaian workers' pensions.

SSNIT Director-General Kwesi Afreh Biney supported the Minister’s statements. He confirmed that the government cleared inherited arrears and is up to date on current payments.

This announcement comes amid increased public scrutiny over pension fund management. Many people are calling for greater transparency in SSNIT’s investment decisions.

The assurance aims to calm concerns and boost public confidence in SSNIT's financial health. The newly inaugurated SSNIT Board is chaired by Nana Ansah Sasraku III. It includes representatives from government, labor unions, and employer associations. Their role is to provide strategic direction and ensure good governance of the Fund.

In other news, it was announced that GETFund received a GHS2.7 billion allocation for early 2025. This funding aims to support the long-term sustainability of the Free Senior High School (Free SHS) program.

Dr. Forson revealed that GETFund received GHS2,710,227,947 for January through April 2025. This amount will serve as the main financial support for Free SHS policy changes formalized in the 2025 Budget.

He noted this funding addresses concerns about student feeding and resource supply issues in public senior high schools.