United Boda-Boda Riders Cooperative , Union Boda, has launched a campaign dubbed “Zuukuka Join Union – NSSF Smart Life” aimed at encouraging drivers to save part of their daily earnings.
The advisor to Union Boda, Fred Ssenoga, says the initiative seeks to ensure that every public transport driver, including boda boda riders, taxi drivers, bus operators and truck drivers, saves 500 shillings every day through the National Social Security Fund (NSSF) to support their future development.
Many people working in the informal sector are known to earn money on a daily basis or work for hand-to-mouth survival, and only a few manage to save for future development due to their limited income.
This concern has prompted leaders of Union Boda, representing boda boda riders, taxi drivers, bus drivers and truck operators, to launch the Zuukuka Join Union – NSSF Smart Life initiative.
Through this program, public transport drivers are encouraged to contribute 500 shillings daily to the NSSF savings scheme to help them improve their livelihoods and secure their future.
Officials responsible for member relations explain that the Smart Life savings plan has flexible terms, and savers are not restricted by strict regulations. Members can withdraw their money whenever they need it.
Leaders of public transport drivers say that since there are age limits set for driving certain public service vehicles, the savings plan under NSSF will help many drivers prepare for life after they stop working.
The State Minister of Finance for Investment and Privatization Evelyn, has however cautioned officials in NSSF to avoid corruption in the implementation of the Zuukuka Join Union – NSSF Smart Life initiative.
Union Boda says it represents over eight million public transport drivers across the country.