By Fatima Kpaka
Kigali, Rwanda – January 30, 2026: The Director General of Sierra Leone’s National Social Security and Insurance Trust (NASSIT), Mohamed Fuaad Daboh, has been elected Vice Chairman of the Africa Social Security Association (ASSA) at the Association’s 30th Governing Council meeting held at the Serena Hotel in Kigali, Rwanda.
Mr. Daboh, who was elected unopposed, expressed gratitude for the confidence reposed in him and pledged to work diligently to advance social security across Africa and beyond.
Commitment to Social Security Reform
In his acceptance speech, Daboh highlighted the pressing challenges facing social security systems in Africa, including unregulated informal economies, limited coverage, inadequate funding, and shifting demographic trends. He urged ASSA members to view these challenges as opportunities for innovation and collaboration.
“Consider these challenges as an opportunity to innovate, collaborate and build systems that will serve the hearts of the African community,” he said.
He further pledged his commitment to millions of Africans whose livelihoods depend on effective social security systems, calling for accelerated digitisation to expand access and streamline administration. Daboh also emphasized the importance of regional cooperation, sharing best practices, and developing harmonised approaches tailored to Africa’s realities.
Focus on the Informal Sector
The new Vice Chairman encouraged African social security institutions to engage more deeply with the informal sector, exploring innovative pathways to extend meaningful coverage to every worker and family. “I am ready to roll up my sleeves and work hand in hand with you to change the pension landscape in Africa,” he concluded.
Regional and International Recognition
Congratulating Daboh, ASSA Secretary Meshech Bandawe described his election as a testament to his statesmanship, dedication, and leadership at national, continental, and global levels. He noted that Daboh’s role would be crucial in steering ASSA’s transformation and harmonisation efforts, particularly as the substantive Chairman is currently indisposed.
Daboh’s election adds to his growing list of international accolades. In January 2020, he was appointed Vice-Chairperson of the Technical Commission on Investment of Social Security Funds of the International Social Security Association (ISSA) for a three-year term. In 2022, he was elected member of the Bureau of ISSA, further cementing his reputation as a leading voice in social security reform.
About ASSA
The Africa Social Security Association (ASSA) was originally established in March 2007 in Kigali, Rwanda, as the East and Central Africa Social Security Association (ECASSA). In April 2023, during its 27th Governing Council meeting in Livingstone, Zambia, ECASSA was renamed ASSA to reflect its expanded continental mandate.
ASSA was officially registered in Tanzania on July 18, 2023, with a mission to foster cooperation and promote the management and development of social security systems across Africa. The African Union has formally endorsed ASSA as a continental institution dedicated to strengthening social protection for all.