In a statement, Atwoli clarified that NSSF is not a tax but a savings scheme aimed at providing workers with financial support during retirement. “Unfortunately, many of those politicizing NSSF benefit from superior pensions or enjoy income from their numerous business ventures. Any attempts to politicize or misrepresent the revised NSSF contribution rates, which were legally enacted in 2013, only mislead the public, hinder compliance, and jeopardize workers’ long-term financial security,” he said. Atwoli urged Kenyans to ignore any opposition to contributions to the social security fund.
He also highlighted that social security is a fundamental human right as outlined by both the International Labour Organization and Kenya’s constitution. “Anyone who genuinely cares about workers should fully support NSSF in its mission to eliminate old-age poverty by ensuring that every Kenyan saves for retirement,” Atwoli emphasized.
Trade unions in Kenya have also pointed out that the country lags behind its East African Community (EAC) counterparts in social security contributions. Kenya’s NSSF contribution rate is set at 12% (6% from the employer and 6% from the employee), while Uganda mandates 15% (10% from the employer and 5% from the employee), and Tanzania sets a contribution rate of 20% (10% from both the employer and employee).
Atwoli’s statement was a response to recent remarks from Deputy President Rigathi Gachagua, who called for a push to remove certain deductions from Kenyan payslips, including the recent doubling of NSSF contributions for salaried workers. Atwoli emphasized that those who genuinely support workers’ interests advocate for better social protection, particularly after retirement.
