Niël Terblanché
The Government Institutions Pension Fund (GIPF) is set to launch its innovative Regional Stakeholder Engagement Forum in Otjozondjupa on 12 September 2024.
According to the fund’s spokesperson, Edwin Tjiramba, this initiative, which will be held at Paresis Hall in Otjiwarongo, aims to enhance member knowledge and engagement through collaboration with key financial institutions.
He added that partnering with entities such as the Namibia Revenue Agency (NAMRA), Public Service Medical Aid Scheme (PSEMAS), Namibia Financial Institutions Supervisory Authority (NAMFISA), Allan Gray First Capital Namibia, and the Bank of Namibia, the GIPF is creating an opportunity for members to better understand their benefits and services.
“The forum is a significant step towards fostering transparent dialogue between GIPF and its members, addressing important issues like pension fund rules, housing, medical aid after retirement, and tax-related concerns,” he said.
Tjiramba stressed the importance of empowering members through knowledge, saying, “A knowledgeable member is a powerful member.”
He added that this engagement model seeks to ensure that members have a clear understanding of their rights and options, fostering stronger ties between the fund and its beneficiaries.
The event will be officially opened by James Unomasa Uerikua, the Governor of the Otjozondjupa region who is set to reiterate the importance of such initiatives for regional development.
Tjiramba indicated that the forum will provide members with ample time to engage with experts and raise any concerns.
“This Otjozondjupa forum is just the beginning of a broader outreach initiative. GIPF plans to host similar forums in other regions, including Oshikoto and Ohangwena,” he said.
On 17 September, the engagement will move to Tsumeb at the Etosha Secondary School Hall, followed by an event at the Monte Carlo Guesthouse in Eenhana on 19 September 2024.
These events also run from 08:00 to 16:00, allowing members from these regions to gain valuable insights and participate in discussions aimed at improving their experience with the GIPF.
Tjiramba said that by collaborating with several financial institutions, the GIPF is adopting a holistic approach to member engagement, ensuring that members not only understand the pension fund itself but also how broader financial systems, medical aid, and tax regulations affect their benefits.
“This model of collaborative stakeholder engagement is expected to become a template for future interactions across the country,” he said.
He added that the GIPF is determined to strengthen regional outreach efforts and that it is a substantial development in addressing concerns raised by members.
“By holding these forums, the GIPF aims to build stronger, more informed member relationships, ensuring that concerns are addressed promptly and with expert guidance,” he said.
