Full Video: Webinar on Turning Love into a Lifetime of Old Age Financial Security

The Ghana Netherlands Business and Culture Council (GNBCC) recently hosted an engaging and informative webinar titled, “Turning Love into a Lifetime of Old Age Financial Security.” The session brought together experts from the People’s Pension Trust (PPT) and the National Pensions Regulatory Authority (NPRA) to discuss practical ways individuals and families can build long-term financial stability through effective pension planning.

The webinar opened with remarks from Tracy Abbey Mensah of GNBCC, who welcomed participants and highlighted the importance of financial literacy and retirement planning in today’s changing economic environment. The session also reaffirmed GNBCC’s commitment to providing platforms that equip businesses and individuals with knowledge and resources to strengthen their financial future.

The Role of the NPRA

Rosina Akrofi from the National Pensions Regulatory Authority provided an overview of the NPRA’s role as Ghana’s pensions regulator, established under the National Pensions Act, 2008 (Act 766). She explained that the authority is responsible for regulating and supervising the pension industry, protecting contributors and pensioners, and ensuring transparency and accountability across pension schemes.

Participants learned about the key criteria that determine whether a pension trustee is in “good standing,” which include:

• Strong governance structures
• Compliance with investment guidelines
• Timely reporting
• Ethical administration of pension funds

Mrs. Akrofi emphasized that a well-regulated pension system depends on collaboration between a vigilant regulator and responsible trustees who prioritize contributors’ interests.

Innovative Solutions from People’s Pension Trust

Kofi Eba-Miezah Polley, Chief Operations Officer at People’s Pension Trust, highlighted the growing importance of retirement planning in Ghana. With changing family structures, increasing life expectancy, and rising costs of living, individuals must take proactive steps to secure financial independence in their later years.

Mr. Polley introduced PPT’s informal sector pension scheme, designed to make retirement savings accessible and flexible. The scheme allows contributors to split their savings between a retirement account and a savings account, providing both long-term security and short-term financial flexibility. Contributions can be made daily, weekly, monthly, or seasonally, making the scheme suitable for workers in the informal sector.

Key Highlights & Technological Advancements

• The “iCare” Feature: A major highlight of the discussion was the “iCare” feature, which allows individuals to contribute directly to the pension accounts of loved ones, such as parents, siblings, employees, or friends. This enables families and organizations to support the long-term financial security of others while reducing the risk of financial strain during old age.
• Digital Accessibility: The speakers demonstrated how technology is making pension services more accessible through digital platforms. Mobile applications, USSD codes, and online portals now allow users to track contributions, access statements, and manage withdrawals with ease.

Connecting Businesses for Over Two Decades

Beyond pension planning, the webinar also showcased the GNBCC’s ongoing work in promoting trade, investment, and business collaboration between Ghana and the Netherlands. For over two decades, the organization has served as a trusted bridge connecting businesses across both countries through services such as market research, business matchmaking, advocacy, and training programmes.

The session concluded with an interactive discussion, where participants asked questions on retirement planning, pension contributions, and financial security strategies. Attendees were encouraged to take proactive steps in planning for retirement and to explore available pension options that support both personal and family financial stability.

The full webinar recording is available below for those who would like to revisit the discussions or share the insights with colleagues and family members.