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Story by, Paul Mensah Nsor
The Ablekuma Branch of the National Pensioners Association (NPA-SSNIT) marked a significant milestone today, celebrating its 10th anniversary with a Thanksgiving Service at the Ablekuma-Abease Presbyterian Church in Accra. The event brought together a number of retired men and women in a spirit of gratitude, reflection, and celebration.
The anniversary celebration highlighted the organization's journey and commitment to its members over the past decade. Through a series of inspiring events, the Ablekuma Branch NPA-SSNIT demonstrated its dedication to providing support and services to its members.
The Thanksgiving Service was a heartwarming celebration of perseverance and community spirit, showcasing the organization's ability to bring people together and provide a sense of belonging. The event was a testament to the power of community and the importance of supporting one another in retirement.
As the Ablekuma Branch NPA-SSNIT looks to the future, it is poised to continue its commitment to its members, providing support and services that promote their well-being and quality of life. The organization's 10-year anniversary celebration is a testament to its dedication to its members and its role in fostering a sense of community among retirees.
Led by Chairman Emmanuel Patterson, the association traced its roots back to a time when local pensioners traveled to Kaneshi for meetings. A pivotal moment came when six dedicated members, including the late Reverend Kudom, established a local meeting place at St. Johns Anglican School, a location they continue to use to this day.
The anniversary celebration was more than just a commemorative event; it was a testament to the association's core values of unity, mutual support, and empowerment. The month-long festivities began in March, featuring a diverse range of activities designed to engage and uplift its members.
Health emerged as a central theme, with specialized talks focusing on nutrition and wellness for seniors. Interactive fun games provided opportunities for socialization, allowing members to laugh, connect, and build stronger community bonds. The events were carefully crafted to address the holistic needs of retired individuals.
A significant highlight of the celebration was the recognition of long-standing members. Special awards were presented to those who joined the association since its inception in 2014, as well as members aged 80 and above who continue to demonstrate remarkable resilience. A particularly moving moment came with the recognition of a visually impaired member who consistently attends meetings,symbolizing the association's inclusive spirit.
Patterson emphasized the critical importance of unity, noting that the association's strength lies in its members' collective contributions. "We are not like other welfare organizations with external funding," he explained. "Our power comes from our members' unity and shared commitment."
He therefore call on workers, especially the self-employed, to prioritise the future by enrolling on the SSNIT Scheme
The anniversary also served as a platform for a broader membership drive. The association is actively reaching out to various institutions, including churches and mosques, to encourage more people to participate in the pension scheme. Patterson shared a compelling narrative about the importance of pension planning, using a touching story about children observing their grandmother's monthly pension benefits.
Looking forward, the association continues to advocate for improved pension benefits and expanded healthcare coverage. Their goals include securing higher pension contributions and increasing access to government hospitals for retired members.
The 10th-anniversary celebration was more than a milestone; it was a powerful statement about the dignity, resilience, and ongoing relevance of pensioners in society. It demonstrated that retirement is not an end, but a new chapter filled with opportunities for growth, community, and continued contribution.
As the Ablekuma Branch National Pensioners Association looks to the future, it remains committed to supporting its members, promoting financial security, and challenging societal perceptions about aging and retirement.