By Binta Jaiteh
The Social Security and Housing Finance Corporation (SSHFC) has presented food stuff worth over D734,160 to its pensioners as part of its annual support during the Muslim fasting month of Ramadan.
The items, which include 120 bags each of rice, sugar, Irish potatoes and onions, were distributed to 115 pensioners across the country. The initiative marks the fourth consecutive year the corporation has provided food assistance to pensioners during Ramadan.
Speaking at the presentation ceremony, the Managing Director of SSHFC, Saloum Malang, described the event as another memorable moment in the history of the institution.
He said the corporation remained committed to supporting pensioners and other vulnerable groups in line with its social protection mandate.
“These are pensioners who worked tirelessly and contributed to the socio-economic development of the country which we are enjoying today. We value them and want them to know that we are always behind them,” Malang said.
He explains that the support particularly targets pensioners suffering from ill health or disabilities who are unable to engage in economic activities.
Malang added that since the institution started food provisions to pensioners, its income and productivity have increased significantly over the past three years.
“We have recorded the highest income and productivity within the past three years and we foresee continued growth. We therefore encourage everyone to continue contributing to Social Security for the sustainability of such initiatives,” he said.
He noted that the corporation recorded significant growth in revenue collection from members’ contributions, amounting to D1,017,571,203.60 in 2024 and D986,073,104.43 in 2025.
Representing the pensioners, Alieu Faal commended the management of SSHFC for extending the distribution to pensioners in various regions of the country.
He says the gesture reflects the institution’s concern for retired workers who contributed to the country’s development.
“We thank the management of Social Security for their dedication and for remembering pensioners, especially during Ramadan,” Faal said.
Also speaking, the Public Relations Officer of the pensioners, Alfon Mendy, said many pensioners suffer from ill health and therefore depend on such support.
He disclosed that the number of beneficiaries has increased significantly compared to last year, when 67 pensioners benefited, while this year 115 pensioners across the country received the assistance.