Dar es Salaam. Journalists have been urged to join the National Social Security Fund (NSSF) Hifadhi Scheme to secure their financial future and protect themselves against uncertainties after their working years.
The call was made by Tanzania Trade Union Congress (TUCTA) Treasurer Dr James Kalanje during a one-day training session on the NSSF Hifadhi Scheme organised by NSSF in collaboration with the Tanzania Journalists Workers Union (JOWUTA) in Dar es Salaam.
Dr Kalanje said many journalists, especially those working in private media outlets and those who are self-employed, continue to work without social security protection despite the demanding nature of their profession.
He said journalists play a critical role in informing society but often face risks and challenges, including irregular income and limited protection when they fall sick, become unable to work or retire.
“Journalists work day and night, under difficult conditions, to ensure citizens receive timely and accurate information. However, many, particularly those in the private sector and self-employed, still lack formal social security protection,” Dr Kalanje said.
He said the NSSF Hifadhi Scheme provides an opportunity for workers outside the formal employment sector to save based on their ability while building financial security for the future.
“Saving today is an investment in tomorrow. Hifadhi Scheme gives workers a chance to prepare for life after employment and provides a safety net during difficult times,” he said.
Dr Kalanje also highlighted access to health insurance benefits as one of the advantages of joining social security schemes, saying it would help members manage healthcare costs.
He challenged journalists to use their influence through newspapers, radio, television and digital platforms to educate the public on the importance of social security contributions.
“Before encouraging others to join social security schemes, journalists should first ensure they are registered themselves. You cannot effectively advocate for something you have not embraced,” he said.
He further called on media owners and editors to support their employees by ensuring they are enrolled in social security funds.
JOWUTA Chairman Mussa Juma praised NSSF for reaching out to journalists and workers in the informal sector, saying the initiative would help increase awareness about the importance of social protection.
He said wider participation in social security schemes would contribute to building financially secure communities.
JOWUTA Secretary General Suleiman Msuya said the union has about 500 members across the country, with journalists represented in regions including Dar es Salaam, Dodoma, Geita, Mara, Kigoma, Mbeya, Iringa, Lindi, Mtwara and Morogoro.
He said the programme should be expanded to reach journalists in all regions.
“This initiative should not end in Dar es Salaam. We will continue encouraging journalists in other regions to participate in similar training so they can understand the benefits of social security,” Mr Msuya said.
He said although about 3,500 journalists are registered with the Journalists Accreditation Board, many are yet to join social security schemes.
“About 80 percent of registered journalists are not members of any social security fund. Through cooperation between NSSF and JOWUTA, this group can be reached and encouraged to secure their future,” he said.
