The Ministry of Finance has raised alarm over a growing number of fraudulent schemes targeting retired civil servants, urging pensioners paid through the Treasury to stay vigilant and avoid engaging with unknown individuals requesting money for pension verification or adjustments.
The warning was issued as part of a public awareness campaign during the ongoing Nane Nane National Agricultural Exhibition at Nzuguni Grounds in Dodoma, where the ministry is showcasing its services to the public.
Speaking at the Ministry’s pavilion, Ms. Joyce Chacky, Chief Accountant in the Pension Unit, clarified that there is no ongoing exercise involving verification or individual pension adjustment by the Treasury.
“We’ve received several reports from retirees who say they’ve been contacted by phone or text message and asked to pay money for pension verification or updates. These messages are false and intended to defraud,” said Ms. Chacky.
She emphasized that pensioners receiving benefits through the Treasury are not required to pay any fee for verification, adjustment, or any related service. The Ministry of Finance covers retirement and inheritance benefits for civil servants who retired under permanent terms, as well as those who did not contribute to social security schemes and retired before June 30, 2004.
“No retiree should be tricked into making payments to anyone claiming to offer verification services. These are scammers. The Ministry does not impose any charges for services provided to pensioners,” Ms. Chacky stressed.
She further urged any retiree approached with such fraudulent requests to report the matter to the nearest police station immediately.
“We strongly encourage all retirees under the Treasury to remain cautious and avoid engaging with anyone soliciting money through unofficial means. If in doubt, report it,” she added.
Pensioners and the general public are also encouraged to visit the nearest Treasury sub-office in their region or the Ministry of Finance office in Zanzibar for any inquiries, comments, or claims. Alternatively, they may contact the Ministry through its official customer service line at 026 216 0000.
The Ministry of Finance, alongside its affiliated institutions, is taking part in this year’s national Nane Nane exhibition under the theme:“Choose Quality Leaders for Sustainable Agricultural and Fisheries Development 2025.”
The exhibition, which brings together stakeholders from across sectors, provides a platform for government institutions to offer education and raise awareness on key issues affecting the public.