Redesigning Social Security Systems in Some Selected Sub-Saharan African Countries

Abstract

In recent years, social security policy has been re-evaluated as a crucial weapon in the struggle against social injustice and poverty. The livelihoods of many people in sub-Saharan Africa (SSA) have largely been affected by a lack of financial resources. Many people in the region have social security. Contestably, the plight of many people in parts of this region has been exacerbated by rising unemployment. The purpose of this study is to assess the relevance and applicability of the existing social security arrangements. Existing social security strategies are fragmented and have not been inclusive enough to cater for all segments of society. The informal sector remains largely excluded from formal social security systems. A qualitative research methodology anchored on the analysis of secondary data was utilised. Collected data was analysed thematically. Findings from the systematic literature review revealed that social security systems in SSA need to evolve over time to ensure that some social security systems do not become redundant. Reforming social security systems is essential given that the environment is constantly changing. The strategies should address the emerging socio-economic challenges if they are to improve the welfare of the people. Thus, the social security needs to be reviewed and realigned with the prevailing economic situation. Progressive society has a duty to periodically assess current social security programmes to determine their applicability to current economic realities. Keywords: Social security system, Informality, Unemployment, Social exclusion, Sub-Saharan African countries