Design of Gender-Specific Benefits in Social Security Schemes: Experience from Tanzania

Abstract

This study aimed to investigate designing and challenges of the implementing gender-specific benefits in social security schemes (NSSF and PSSSF) in Dar es Salaam, Tanzania. Twenty-four (24) respondents were involved in this study. Face-to-face Semi-structured interviews were the main method used in data collection. Data collected were analyzed through Thematic and Content analysis. The findings revealed that the Maternity benefit is the only gender-sensitive benefit included in social security schemes. Additionally, the findings revealed that policies, programs, strategies, and laws concerning social protection are gender blind while social security benefits are characterized by the exclusion of paternity benefits and informal sectors.  The study concludes that gender-centered social security benefits can be viewed in the design and implementation of social security benefits. The study recommends that the government should reform social security policies to suit gender as a primary factor in its design. The study recommends that members should demand changes in benefits because members’ contribution is a great source of income in social security schemes.