COTU Endorses New Higher NSSF Deductions

The Central Organisation of Trade Unions (COTU) has spoken in favor of the increased National Social Security Fund deductions set to take effect this month, arguing that they are beneficial for workers.
According to COTU Secretary-general Francis Atwoli, the deductions are not only necessary but also vital in ensuring workers' financial security in retirement.
"As the voice of Kenyan workers, we affirm that the full implementation of this Act is essential for securing workers' financial futures," Atwoli stated.
Atwoli also emphasized that NSSF is not a tax but a structured, mandatory savings scheme designed to help workers retire with dignity.
"Unfortunately, many of those politicizing NSSF contributions enjoy superior pension benefits or have assured income streams through their business ventures. Any attempts to misrepresent or politicize the revised NSSF rates, legally enacted in 2013, only serve to mislead the public, hinder compliance, and jeopardize workers' long-term financial security."
Atwoli further insisted that social security is a fundamental human right meant to protect individuals from uncertainties such as old-age poverty.
COTU has therefore urged Kenyan workers to disregard anyone opposing the full implementation of the NSSF Act (2013), warning that such opposition threatens their retirement security.
As the new NSSF rates come into effect, both employer and employee contributions will increase, resulting in reduced take-home pay for salaried Kenyans.