Social Security Programs Throughout the World: Africa, 2005 Social Security Administration Office of Policy Office of Research, Evaluation, and Statistics 500 E Street, SW, 8th Floor Washington, DC 20254 SSA Publication No. 13-11803 Released: September 2005 Preface This third issue in the current four-volume series of Social Security Programs Throughout the World reports on the countries of Africa. The combined findings of this series, which also includes volumes on Europe, Asia and the Pacific, and the Americas, are published at 6-month intervals over a 2-year period. Each volume highlights features of social security programs in the particular region. The information contained in these volumes is crucial to our efforts, and those of researchers in other countries, to review different ways of approaching social security challenges that will enable us to adapt our social security systems to the evolving needs of individuals, households, and families. These efforts are particularly important as each nation faces major demographic changes, especially the increasing number of aged persons, as well as economic and fiscal issues. Social Security Programs Throughout the World is the product of a cooperative effort between the Social Security Administration (SSA) and the International Social Security Association (ISSA). Founded in 1927, the ISSA is a nonprofit organization bringing together institutions and administrative bodies from countries throughout the world. The ISSA deals with all forms of compulsory social protection that by legislation or national practice are an integral part of a country’s social security system. Previous editions of this report, which date back to 1937, were issued as one volume and were prepared by SSA staff. With the introduction of the four-volume format, however, the research and writing has been contracted out to the ISSA. The ISSA has conducted the research largely through its numerous country-based correspondents, as well as its Social Security Worldwide Database and a myriad of other types of data that must be drawn together to update this report. Members of the ISSA’s Information System and Databases Unit analyzed the information and revised the publication to reflect detailed changes to each social security program. Social Security Programs Throughout the World is based on information available to the ISSA and SSA with regard to legislation in effect in January 2005, or the last date for which information has been received. Questions about the report should be sent to Barbara Kritzer at ssptw@ssa.gov. Corrections, updated information, and copies of relevant documentation and legislation are also welcome and may be sent to: International Social Security Association Information System and Databases Unit Case postale 1 4 route des Morillons CH-1211 Geneva 22 Switzerland This report is available at http://www.socialsecurity.gov/policy. For additional copies, please e-mail op.publications@ssa.gov or telephone 202-358-6274. SSA staff members were responsible for technical and editorial assistance and production. Barbara Kritzer served as technical consultant and provided overall project management. Staff of the Division of Information Resources edited and produced the report and prepared the electronic versions for the Web. Susan Grad Acting Associate Commissioner for Research, Evaluation, and Statistics September 2005 Contents Guide to Reading the Country Summaries Sources of Information .................................................................................. 1 Types of Programs Employment-Related .................................................................................................... 2 Universal ..................................................................................................................... 3 Means-Tested .............................................................................................................. 3 Other Types of Programs ............................................................................................. 3 Format of Country Summaries Old Age, Disability, and Survivors .............................................................................. 4 Sickness and Maternity ............................................................................................... 8 Work Injury .................................................................................................................. 10 Unemployment ............................................................................................................ 12 Family Allowances ....................................................................................................... 14 Tables 1. Types of social security programs .......................................................................... 16 2. Types of mandatory systems for retirement income ............................................... 18 3. Demographic and other statistics related to social security, 2005 .......................... 20 4. Contribution rates for social security programs, 2005 ............................................ 22 Country Summaries Algeria ........................................... 27 Madagascar ................................... 103 Benin .............................................. 32 Malawi ........................................... 108 Botswana ....................................... 37 Mali ................................................ 109 Burkina Faso .................................. 39 Mauritania ..................................... 114 Burundi .......................................... 44 Mauritius ....................................... 118 Cameroon ....................................... 47 Morocco ........................................ 123 Cape Verde ..................................... 50 Niger .............................................. 127 Central African Republic ................ 54 Nigeria ............................................ 131 Chad ............................................... 57 Rwanda .......................................... 134 Congo (Brazzaville) ........................ 60 São Tomé and Principe .................. 136 Congo (Kinshasa) .......................... 64 Senegal .......................................... 139 Côte d’Ivoire .................................. 67 Seychelles ...................................... 144 Egypt ............................................. 71 Sierra Leone ................................... 148 Equatorial Guinea ........................... 77 South Africa ................................... 150 Ethiopia .......................................... 80 Sudan ............................................. 155 Gabon ............................................. 82 Swaziland ....................................... 157 Gambia ........................................... 86 Tanzania ......................................... 159 Ghana ............................................. 88 Togo ............................................... 163 Guinea ............................................ 91 Tunisia ........................................... 167 Kenya ............................................. 95 Uganda .......................................... 172 Liberia ............................................ 98 Zambia ........................................... 174 Libya .............................................. 100 Zimbabwe ....................................... 177 Guide to Reading the Country Summaries This third issue in the current four-volume series of Sources of Information Social Security Programs Throughout the World reports on the countries of Africa. The combined Most of the information in this report was collated from findings of this series, which also includes volumes on the Social Security Programs Throughout the World Europe, Asia and the Pacific, and the Americas, are survey conducted by the International Social Security published at 6-month intervals over a 2-year period. Association (ISSA) under the sponsorship of the U.S. Each volume highlights features of social security Social Security Administration (SSA). This information programs in the particular region. was supplemented by data collected from the ISSA’s This guide serves as an overview of programs in all Developments and Trends Annual Survey. Empirical regions. A few political jurisdictions have been excluded data were also provided by numerous social security because they have no social security system or have officials throughout the world. (For a listing of countries issued no information regarding their social security and jurisdictions that responded to the survey, see page legislation. In the absence of recent information, national 2.) Important sources of published information include programs reported in previous volumes may also be the ISSA Documentation Center; the legislative excluded. The summary for Somalia was previously database of the International Labour Office; and official omitted in the 2003 volume and has similarly been omitted publications, periodicals, and selected documents from this volume for that reason. received from social security institutions. Information In this volume on Africa, the data reported are based was also received from the Organization for Economic on laws and regulations in force in January 2005 or on the Cooperation and Development, the World Bank, the last date for which information has been received.1 International Monetary Fund, and the United Nations Information for each country on types of social security Development Programme. During the compilation programs, types of mandatory systems for retirement process, international analysts at both SSA and the ISSA income, contribution rates, and demographic and other examined the material for factual errors, ambiguous statistics related to social security is shown in Tables 1–4 statements, and contradictions in material from different beginning on page 16. sources. The country summaries show each system’s major Types of Programs features. Separate programs in the public sector and specialized funds for such groups as agricultural workers, The term social security in this report refers to collective farmers, or the self-employed have not been programs established by statute that insure individuals described in any detail. Benefit arrangements of private against interruption or loss of earning power and for employers or individuals are not described in any detail, certain special expenditures arising from marriage, birth, even though such arrangements may be mandatory in or death. This definition also includes allowances to some countries or available as alternatives to statutory families for the support of children. programs. Protection of the insured person and dependents The country summaries also do not refer to interna- usually is extended through cash payments to replace at tional social security agreements that may be in force least a portion of the income lost as the result of old between two or more countries. Those agreements may age, disability, or death; sickness and maternity; work modify coverage, contributions, and benefit provisions of injury; unemployment; or through services, primarily national laws summarized in the country write-ups. Since hospitalization, medical care, and rehabilitation. Mea- the summary format requires brevity, technical terms sures providing cash benefits to replace lost income are have been developed that are concise as well as compa- usually referred to as income maintenance programs; rable and are applied to all programs. The terminology measures that finance or provide direct services are may therefore differ from national concepts or usage. referred to as benefits in kind. Three broad approaches to coverage provide cash 1 The names of the countries in this report are those used benefits under income-maintenance programs; namely, by the U.S. Department of State. The term country has been employment-related, universal, and means-tested used throughout the volume even though in some instances systems. Under both the employment-related and the the term jurisdiction may be more appropriate. universal approaches, the insured, dependents, and survivors can claim benefits as a matter of right. Under his or her working life and, in some cases, credit for means-tested approaches, benefits are based on a unpaid activity such as caregiving. A pension is calcu- comparison of a person’s income or resources against a lated by dividing that amount by the average life expect- standard measure. Some countries also provide other ancy at the time of retirement and indexing it to various types of coverage. economic factors. When benefits are due, the individ- ual’s notional account balance is converted into a periodic Employment-Related pension payment. Employment-related systems, commonly referred to as Some social insurance systems permit voluntary social insurance systems, generally base eligibility for affiliation of workers, especially the self-employed. In pensions and other periodic payments on length of some instances, the government subsidizes such pro- employment or self-employment or, in the case of family grams to encourage voluntary participation. allowances and work injuries, on the existence of the The government is, pro forma, the ultimate guarantor employment relationship itself. The amount of pensions of many benefits. In many countries, the national gov- (long-term payments, primarily) and of other periodic ernment participates in the financing of employment- (short-term) payments in the event of unemployment, related as well as other social security programs. The sickness, maternity, or work injury is usually related to the government may contribute through an appropriation from level of earnings before any of these contingencies general revenues based on a percentage of total wages caused earnings to cease. Such programs are financed paid to insured workers, finance part or all of the cost of entirely or largely from contributions (usually a percent- a program, or pay a subsidy to make up any deficit of an age of earnings) made by employers, workers, or both insurance fund. In some cases, the government pays the and are in most instances compulsory for defined contributions for low-paid workers. These arrangements categories of workers and their employers. are separate from obligations the government may have The creation of notional defined contributions (NDC) as an employer under systems that cover government is a relatively new method of calculating benefits. NDC employees. Social security contributions and other schemes are a variant of contributory social insurance earmarked income are kept in a dedicated fund and are that seek to tie benefit entitlements more closely to shown as a separate item in government accounts. (For contributions. A hypothetical account is created for each further details on the government’s role in financing insured person that is made up of all contributions during social security, see Source of Funds under Old Age, Disability, and Survivors.) Countries in Africa that Responded to the Social Security Programs Throughout the World Survey Algeria Mauritania Benin Mauritius Botswana Morocco Burkina Faso Niger Burundi Nigeria Cameroon Rwanda Cape Verde Senegal Central African Republic Seychelles Ethiopia Sierra Leone Ghana Sudan Guinea Tanzania Kenya Togo Madagascar Tunisia Mali Uganda Malawi Zambia 2 ♦ SSPTW: Africa, 2005 Universal and mandatory private insurance), publicly operated Universal programs provide flat-rate cash benefits to provident funds, and employer-liability systems. residents or citizens, without consideration of income, Programs Delivered by Financial Services Providers employment, or means. Typically financed from general revenues, these benefits may apply to all persons with Mandatory individual account. Applies to a program sufficient residency. Universal programs may include where covered persons and/or employers must contribute old-age pensions for persons over a certain age; pensions a certain percentage of earnings to the covered person’s for disabled workers, widow(er)s, and orphans; and individual account managed by a contracted public or family allowances. Most social security systems private fund manager. The mandate to establish mem- incorporating a universal program also have a second-tier bership in a scheme and the option to choose a fund earnings-related program. Some universal programs, manager lie with the individual. The accumulated capital although receiving substantial support from income taxes, in the individual account is normally intended as a source are also financed in part by contributions from workers of income replacement for the contingencies of retire- and employers. ment, disability, ill health, or unemployment. It may also be possible for eligible survivors to access the accumu- Means-Tested lated capital in the case of the insured’s death. Means-tested programs establish eligibility for benefits by Contributions are assigned to an employee’s individual measuring individual or family resources against a account. The employee must pay administrative fees for calculated standard usually based on subsistence needs. the management of the individual account and usually Benefits are limited to applicants who satisfy a means purchase a separate policy for disability and survivors test. The size and type of benefits awarded are deter- insurance. mined in each case by administrative decision within the Mandatory occupational pension. Applies to a program framework of the law. where employers are mandated by law to provide The specific character of means, needs, or income occupational pension schemes financed by employer, and tests, as well as the weight given to family resources, in some cases, employee contributions. Benefits may be differ considerably from country to country. Such paid as a lump sum, annuity, or pension. programs, commonly referred to as social pensions or equalization payments, traditionally are financed primarily Mandatory private insurance. Applies to a program from general revenues. where individuals are mandated by law to purchase Means-tested systems constitute the sole or principal insurance directly from a private insurance company. form of social security in only a few jurisdictions. In Provident Funds. These funds, which exist primarily in other jurisdictions, contributory programs operate in developing countries, are essentially compulsory savings tandem with income-related benefits. In such instances, programs in which regular contributions withheld from means- or income-tested programs may be administered employees’ wages are enhanced, and often matched, by by social insurance agencies. Means-tested programs employers’ contributions. The contributions are set aside apply to persons who are not in covered employment or and invested for each employee in a single, publicly whose benefits under employment-related programs, managed fund for later repayment to the worker when together with other individual or family resources, are defined contingencies occur. Typically, benefits are paid inadequate to meet subsistence or special needs. Al- out in the form of a lump sum with accrued interest, though means-tested programs can be administered at the although in certain circumstances drawdown provisions national level, they are usually administered locally. enable partial access to savings prior to retirement or In this report, when national means-tested programs other defined contingencies. On retirement, some supplement an employment-related benefit, the existence provident funds also permit beneficiaries to purchase an of a means-tested program is generally noted, but no annuity or opt for a pension. Some provident funds details concerning it are given. When a means-tested provide pensions for survivors. program represents the only or principal form of social security, however, further details are provided. Employer-Liability Systems. Under these systems, workers are usually protected through labor codes that Other Types of Programs require employers, when liable, to provide specified payments or services directly to their employees. Speci- Three other types of programs are those delivered, in the fied payments or services can include the payment of main, through financial services providers (mandatory lump-sum gratuities to the aged or disabled; the provision individual accounts, mandatory occupational pensions, of medical care, paid sick leave, or both; the payment of SSPTW: Africa, 2005 ♦ 3 maternity benefits or family allowances; the provision of of the system, and the degree of economic development. temporary or long-term cash benefits and medical care in A program may provide coverage for the entire country the case of a work injury; or the payment of severance or some portion of the workforce. indemnities in the case of dismissal. Employer-liability In principle, universal systems cover the entire popula- systems do not involve any direct pooling of risk, since tion for the contingencies of old age, disability, and the liability for payment is placed directly on each em- survivorship. A person may have to meet certain condi- ployer. Employers may insure themselves against liability, tions, such as long-term residence or citizenship. Many and in some jurisdictions such insurance is compulsory. countries exclude aliens from benefits unless there is a reciprocal agreement with the country of which they are Format of Country Summaries nationals. Each country summary discusses five types of programs: The extent of employment-related benefits is usually determined by the age of the system. Historically, social • Old age, disability, and survivors; security coverage was provided first to government • Sickness and maternity; employees and members of the armed forces, then to • Work injury; workers in industry and commerce, and eventually • Unemployment; and extended to the vast majority of wage earners and • Family allowances. salaried employees through a general system. As a result, public employees (including military personnel and Old Age, Disability, and Survivors civil servants), teachers, and employees of public utilities, Benefits under old age, disability, and survivor programs corporations, or monopolies are still covered by occupa- usually cover long-term risks, as distinct from short-term tion-specific separate systems in many countries. risks such as temporary incapacity resulting from In many countries, special occupational systems have sickness and maternity, work injury, or unemployment. been set up for certain private-sector employees, such as The benefits are normally pensions payable for life or for miners, railway workers, and seamen. Qualifying a considerable number of years. Such benefits are conditions and benefits are often more liberal than under usually provided as part of a single system with common the general system. The risk involved in an occupation, financing and administration as well as interrelated its strategic importance for economic growth, and the qualifying conditions and benefit formulas. economic and political strength of trade unions may have The laws summarized under Old Age, Disability, and had a role in shaping the type and size of benefits offered Survivors focus first on benefits providing pensions or by the particular program. lump-sum payments to compensate for loss of income Groups that might be considered difficult to adminis- resulting from old age or permanent retirement. Such ter—family workers, domestics, day workers, agricultural benefits are usually payable after attaining a specified workers, and the self-employed—were often initially statutory age. Some countries require complete or excluded from coverage. The trend has been to extend substantial retirement in order to become eligible for a coverage to these groups under separate funds or to pension; other countries pay a retirement pension at a bring them gradually under the general system. In some certain age regardless of whether workers retire or not. countries, noncovered workers become eligible for the The second type of long-term risk for which pensions right to an eventual pension if they make voluntary are provided is disability (referred to in some countries as contributions at a specified level. Some systems also invalidity). Disability may be generally defined as long- provide voluntary coverage for women who leave the term and more or less total work impairment resulting labor force temporarily to have children or to raise a from a nonoccupational injury or disease. (Disability family, or for self-employed persons not covered by a caused by a work injury or occupational disease is usually mandatory program. Some developed countries with compensated under a separate program; see Work Injury, younger programs have constructed a unified national below.) program, thus largely bypassing the need for developing The third type of pension is payable to dependents of separate industrial or agricultural funds. insured workers or pensioners who die. (Pensions for Most developing countries have extended coverage survivors of workers injured while working are usually gradually. Their first steps toward creating a social provided under a separate Work Injury program.) security system have commonly been to cover wage and salary workers against loss of income due to work injury, Coverage. The extent of social security coverage in any and then old age and, less commonly, disability. given country is determined by a number of diverse In a number of developing countries, particularly in factors, including the kind of system, sometimes the age those that were once British colonies, this initial step has 4 ♦ SSPTW: Africa, 2005 come via the institutional form of provident funds. Most ing several contingencies. Benefits for sickness, work provident funds provide coverage for wage and salary injury, unemployment, and family allowances as well as workers in the government and private sector. A few pensions may be financed from this single contribution. funds have exclusions based on the worker’s earnings or General revenue financing is the sole source of income in the size of the firm. Funds that exclude employees with some universal systems. The contribution of the resident earnings above a certain level from compulsory coverage or citizen may be a percentage of taxable income under a may in some cases give them the option to affiliate or national tax program. General revenues finance all or continue to participate voluntarily. part of the means-tested supplementary benefits in many Source of Funds. The financing of benefits for old-age, countries. disability, and survivor programs can come from three Contribution rates, as a rule, are applied to wages or possible sources: salaries only up to a statutory ceiling. A portion of the wage of highly paid workers will escape taxation but will • A percentage of covered wages or salaries paid by also not count in determining the benefit. In a few cases, the worker, an earnings ceiling applies for the determination of • A percentage of covered payroll paid by the em- benefits but not for contribution purposes. In some ployer, and countries, contribution rates are applied not to actual • A government contribution. earnings but to a fixed amount that is set for all earnings Almost all pension programs under social insurance (as falling within a specified range or wage class. distinct from provident funds or universal systems) are Qualifying Conditions. Qualifying to receive an old-age financed at least in part by employer and employee benefit is usually conditional on two requirements: contributions. Many derive their funds from all three attainment of a specified age and completion of a sources. Contributions are determined by applying a specified period of contributions or covered employment. percentage to salaries or wages up to a certain maxi- Another common requirement is total or substantial mum. In many cases the employer pays a larger share. withdrawal from the labor force. In some instances, The government’s contribution may be derived from eligibility is determined by resident status or citizenship. general revenues or, less commonly, from special ear- Old-age benefits generally become payable between marked or excise taxes (for example, a tax on tobacco, ages 60 and 65. In some countries, length-of-service gasoline, or alcoholic beverages). Government contribu- benefits are payable at any age after a certain period of tions may be used in different ways to defray a portion of employment, most commonly between 30 and 40 years. all expenditures (such as the cost of administration), to In recent years, several countries have increased the age make up deficits, or even to finance the total cost of a limit for entitlement, in part because of budgetary program. Subsidies may be provided as a lump sum or an constraints arising as a consequence of demographic amount to make up the difference between employer/ aging. employee contributions and the total cost of the system. Many programs require the same pensionable age for A number of countries reduce or, in some cases, eliminate women as for men. Others permit women to draw a full contributions for the lowest-paid wage earners, financing pension at an earlier age, even though women generally their benefits entirely from general revenues or by the have a longer life expectancy. Although the norm has employer’s contribution. been for the differential to be about 5 years, there is now The contribution rate apportioned between the sources an emerging international trend toward equalizing the of financing may be identical or progressive, increasing statutory retirement age. with the size of the wage or changing according to wage Many programs offer optional retirement before the class. Where universal and earnings-related systems statutory retirement age is reached. A reduced pension, exist side by side, and the universal benefit is not financed in some instances, may be claimed up to 5 years before entirely by the government, separate rates may exist for the statutory retirement age. Some countries pay a full each program. In other instances, flat-rate weekly pension before the regular retirement age if the applicant contributions may finance basic pension programs. meets one or more of the following conditions: work in an These amounts are uniform for all workers of the same especially arduous, unhealthy, or hazardous occupation age and sex, regardless of earnings level. However, the (for example, underground mining); involuntary unem- self-employed may have to contribute at a higher rate ployment for a period near retirement age; physical or than wage and salary workers, thereby making up for the mental exhaustion (as distinct from disability) near employer’s share. retirement age; or, occasionally, an especially long period For administrative purposes, a number of countries of coverage. Some programs award old-age pensions to assess a single overall social security contribution cover- workers who are older than the statutory retirement age SSPTW: Africa, 2005 ♦ 5 but who cannot satisfy the regular length-of-coverage employment or to the maximum age for a family allow- requirement. Other programs provide increments to ance benefit. The upper age limit is frequently the workers who have continued in employment beyond the statutory retirement age, when disability benefits may be normal retirement age. converted to old-age benefits. Universal old-age pension systems usually do not For survivors to be eligible for benefits, most programs require a minimum period of covered employment or require that the deceased worker was a pensioner, contributions. However, most prescribe a minimum completed a minimum period of covered employment, or period of prior residence. satisfied the minimum contribution conditions. The Some old-age pension systems credit periods during qualifying contribution period is often the same as that for which persons, for reasons beyond their control, were not the disability benefit. The surviving spouse and orphans in covered employment. Credits can be awarded for may also have to meet certain conditions, such as age reasons such as disability, involuntary unemployment, requirements. military service, education, child rearing, or training. Old-Age Benefits. The old-age benefit in most countries Other systems disregard these periods and may propor- is a wage-related, periodic payment. However, some tionately reduce benefits for each year below the re- countries pay a universal fixed amount that bears no quired minimum. Persons with only a few years of relationship to any prior earnings; others supplement their coverage may receive a refund of contributions or a universal pension with an earnings-related pension. settlement in which a proportion of the full benefit or Provident fund systems make a lump-sum payment, earnings is paid for each year of contribution. usually a refund of employer and employee contributions The majority of old-age pensions financed through plus accrued interest. In programs that have mandatory social insurance systems require total or substantial individual accounts, options for retirement include pur- withdrawal from covered employment. Under a retire- chasing an annuity, making withdrawals from an account ment test, the benefit may be withheld or reduced for regulated to guarantee income for an expected lifespan those who continue working, depending on the amount of (programmed withdrawals), or a combination of the two earnings or, less often, the number of hours worked. (deferred annuity). Universal systems usually do not require retirement from Benefits that are related to income are almost always work for receipt of a pension. Provident funds pay the based on average earnings. Some countries compute the benefit only when the worker leaves covered employ- average from gross earnings, including various fringe ment or emigrates. benefits; other countries compute the average from net Some countries provide a number of exemptions that earnings. Alternatively, some countries have opted to use act to eliminate the retirement condition for specified wage classes rather than actual earnings. The wage categories of pensioners. For instance, the retirement classes may be based on occupations or, for administra- test may be eliminated for workers who reached a tive convenience, on earnings arranged by size using the specified age above the minimum pensionable age or for midpoint in each step to compute the benefit. pensioners with long working careers in covered employ- Several methods are used to compensate for averages ment. Occupations with manpower shortages may also that may be reduced by low earnings early in a worker’s be exempted from the retirement test. career or by periods without any credited earnings due, The principal requirements for receiving a disability for example, to unemployment or military service, and for benefit are loss of productive capacity after completing a the effects of price and wage increases due to inflation. minimum period of work or having met the minimum One method is to exclude from consideration a number of contribution requirements. Many programs grant the full periods with the lowest (including zero) earnings. In disability benefit for a two-thirds loss of working capacity many systems the period over which earnings are in the worker’s customary occupation, but this require- averaged may be shortened to the last few years of ment may vary from one-third to 100 percent. coverage, or the average may be based on years when The qualifying period for a disability benefit is usually the worker had his or her highest earnings. Other shorter than for an old-age benefit. Periods of 3 to 5 systems revalue past earnings by applying an index that years of contributions or covered employment are most usually reflects changes in national average wages or the common. A few countries provide disability benefits in cost of living. Some assign hypothetical wages before a the form of an unlimited extension of ordinary cash certain date. Alternatively, others have developed sickness benefits. mechanisms for automatic adjustment of workers’ wage Entitlement to disability benefits may have age limita- records based on wage or price changes. tions. The lower limit in most systems is in the teens, but A variety of formulas are used in determining the it may be related to the lowest age for social insurance or benefit amount. Instead of a statutory minimum, some 6 ♦ SSPTW: Africa, 2005 systems pay a percentage of average earnings—for Survivor Benefits. Most systems provide periodic instance, 35 percent or 50 percent—that is unchanged by benefits for survivors of covered persons or pensioners, length of coverage once the qualifying period is met. A although some pay only lump-sum benefits. Survivor more common practice is to provide a basic rate—for benefits are generally a percentage of either the benefit example, 30 percent of average earnings—plus an paid to the deceased at death or the benefit to which the increment of 1 percent or 2 percent of earnings either for insured would have been entitled if he or she had attained each year of coverage or for each year in excess of a pensionable age or become disabled at that time. minimum number of years. Several countries have a Survivor benefits are paid to some categories of weighted benefit formula that returns a larger percentage widows under nearly all programs. The amount of a of earnings to lower-paid workers than to higher-paid widow’s benefit usually ranges from 50 percent to workers. 75 percent of the deceased worker’s benefit or, in some Most systems limit the size of the benefit. Many do so cases, 100 percent. In some countries, lifetime benefits by establishing a ceiling on the earnings taken into are payable to every widow whose husband fulfills the account in the computation. Others establish a maximum necessary qualifying period. More commonly, the cash amount or a maximum percentage of average provision of widows’ benefits is confined to widows who earnings set, for example, at 80 percent. Some systems are caring for young children, are above a specified age, combine these and other, similar methods. or are disabled. Most systems supplement the benefit for a wife or Lifetime benefits are ordinarily payable to aged and child. The wife’s supplement may be 50 percent or more disabled widows. Those awarded to younger mothers, of the basic benefit, although in some countries the however, are usually terminated when all children have supplement is payable only for a wife who has reached a passed a certain age, unless the widow has reached a specified age, has children in her care, or is disabled. It specified age or is disabled. Most widows’ benefits also may also be payable for a dependent husband. terminate on remarriage, although a final lump-sum grant Minimum benefits are intended to maintain a minimum may be payable under this circumstance. Special provi- standard of living in many countries, although that objec- sions govern the rights of the divorced. Age limits for tive is not always achieved. A maximum that reduces the orphan’s benefits are in many cases the same as for effect large families have on benefits is commonly used children’s allowances. Many countries fix a somewhat to limit total benefits, including those of survivors, in the higher age limit for orphans attending school or undergo- interest of the financial stability of the program. ing an apprenticeship or for those who are incapacitated. In some countries, benefits are automatically adjusted The age limit is usually removed for disabled orphans as to reflect price or wage changes. In other countries, the long as their incapacity continues. Most survivor pro- process is semiautomatic—the adequacy of pensions is grams distinguish between half orphans (who have lost reviewed periodically by an advisory board or other one parent) and full orphans (who have lost both par- administrative body that recommends a benefit adjust- ents), with the latter receiving benefits that are ment to the government, usually requiring legislative 50 percent to 100 percent larger than those for half approval. orphans. Special payments are also made to orphans Under most programs, provisions under the family allowance programs of some countries.Disability Benefits. for disability benefits for persons who are permanently Benefits are payable under a number of programs to disabled as the result of nonoccupational causes are very widowers of insured workers or pensioners. A widower similar to those for the aged. The same basic formula usually must have been financially dependent on his wife usually applies for total disability as for old age—a cash and either disabled or old enough to receive an old-age amount usually expressed as a percentage of average benefit at her death. A widower’s benefit is usually earnings. Increments and dependents’ supplements are computed in the same way as a widow’s benefit. generally identical under the total disability and old-age Many systems also pay benefits to other surviving programs. For the totally disabled, a constant-attendance close relatives, such as parents and grandparents, but supplement, usually 50 percent of the benefit, may be only in the absence of qualifying widows, widowers, or paid to those who need help on a daily basis. Partial children. The maximum total benefit to be split among disability benefits, if payable, are usually reduced, survivors is usually between 80 percent and 100 percent according to a fixed scale. The system may also provide of the benefit of the deceased. rehabilitation and training. Some countries provide higher Administrative Organization. Responsibility for benefits for workers in arduous or dangerous administration generally rests with semiautonomous employment. institutions or funds. These agencies are usually subject to general supervision by a ministry or government SSPTW: Africa, 2005 ♦ 7 department but otherwise are largely self-governing, developed separate programs. Where the social security headed by a tripartite board that includes representatives program operates its own medical facilities, both types of of workers, employers, and the government. Some benefits are usually administered jointly. boards are bipartite with representatives of workers and Benefits designed to assist in the provision of long- employers only or of workers and the government. term care, often at home, are generally supported by a Where coverage is organized separately for different special tax. Benefit levels are normally set to the level of occupations, or for wage earners and salaried employees care required. These benefits may be payable in cash, as or self-employed workers, each program usually has a care services, or as a combination of the two. separate institution or fund. In a few cases, the Coverage. The proportion of the population covered by administration of benefits is placed directly in the hands sickness programs varies considerably from country to of a government ministry or department. country, in part because of the degree of economic Sickness and Maternity development. Coverage for medical care and cash benefits is generally identical in countries where both Sickness benefit programs are generally of two types: types of benefits are provided through the same branch cash sickness benefits, which are paid when short-term of social insurance. In a number of systems, particularly illnesses prevent work, and health care benefits, which in developing countries, health care insurance extends are provided in the form of medical, hospital, and only to employees in certain geographic areas. A pharmaceutical benefits. Some countries maintain a common procedure is to start the program in major urban separate program for cash maternity benefits, which are centers, then extend coverage gradually to other areas. paid to working mothers before and after childbirth. In Both cash sickness and health care programs may most countries, however, maternity benefits are exclude agricultural workers, who, in some countries, administered as part of the cash sickness program. account for a major proportion of the working population. (Benefits provided as a result of work injury or Where a health insurance system (as distinguished from a occupational disease are provided either under work national health service program) exists, most workers injury or sickness programs. Details of the benefits are earning below a certain ceiling participate on a discussed under Work Injury.) compulsory basis. Others, such as the self-employed, Cash sickness and maternity benefits as well as health may be permitted to affiliate on a voluntary basis. In care are usually administered under the same branch of several countries, higher-paid employees are specifically social security. For this reason, these programs are excluded from one or both forms of sickness insurance, grouped together in the country summaries. although some voluntary participation is usually permitted. An important reason for grouping these numerous Many countries include pensioners as well as other benefits together is that each deals with the risk of social security beneficiaries under the medical care temporary incapacity. Moreover, in most instances, such programs, in some cases without cost to the pensioner. benefits are furnished as part of a single system with Elsewhere, pensioners pay a percentage of their pension common financing and administration. Most countries or a fixed premium for all or part of the medical care provide medical care services for sickness and maternity coverage. Special sickness insurance systems may be as an integral part of the health insurance system and link maintained for certain workers, such as railway employ- those services directly with the provision of cash benefits. ees, seamen, and public employees. In some instances, however, maternity cash grants are Where medical care coverage is provided through a covered under family allowance programs. Occasionally, national health service rather than social insurance, the medical care services are provided under a public health program is usually open in principle to virtually all resi- program, independent of the social insurance system. dents. However, restrictions on services to aliens may Where this dual approach is followed, it has been indi- apply. cated in the summaries. Where health care is dispensed directly by the govern- Source of Funds. Many countries have merged the ment or its agencies and the principal source of funds is financing of sickness programs with that of other social general revenue, the cash benefit program usually insurance benefits and collect only a single contribution continues to be administered on an insurance basis, from employees and employers. More commonly, funded by payroll contributions, and merged in some however, a fixed percentage of wages, up to a ceiling, is instances with other aspects of the social insurance contributed by employees and employers directly to a system such as old age and disability. However, coun- separate program that administers both health care and tries that deliver health care primarily through private cash benefits for sickness and maternity. Some countries facilities and private funding are also likely to have also provide a government contribution. Where medical 8 ♦ SSPTW: Africa, 2005 care is available to residents, generally through some type cases. In most countries, when cash sickness benefits of national health service, the government usually bears are exhausted, the recipient is paid a disability benefit if at least the major part of the cost from general revenues. the incapacity continues. Qualifying Conditions. Generally, a person becoming ill Cash maternity benefits are usually payable for a must be gainfully employed, incapacitated for work, and specified period, both before and after childbirth. A not receiving regular wages or sick-leave payments from woman is almost always required to stop working while the employer to be eligible for cash sickness benefits. receiving maternity benefits, and usually she must use the Most programs require claimants to meet a minimum prenatal and postnatal medical services provided by the period of contribution or to have some history of work system. In some countries, cash maternity benefits are attachment prior to the onset of illness to qualify. Some also payable to working men who stay home to care for a countries, however, have eliminated the qualifying period. newborn child while the mother returns to work. Cash The length of the qualifying period for cash sickness payments may also be available for a parent, usually the benefits may range from less than 1 month to 6 months or mother, who is absent from work to care for a sick child more and is ordinarily somewhat longer for cash mater- under a specified age. nity benefits. Usually the period must be fairly recent, The proportion of earnings payable as a cash maternity such as during the last 6 or 12 months. In the case of benefit differs considerably from country to country but, medical benefits, a qualifying period is usually not re- like cash sickness benefits, is usually between 50 percent quired. In instances where such a requirement does and 75 percent of current earnings. However, in a exist, it is generally of a short duration. Most programs number of countries, maternity benefits are set at providing medical services to dependents of workers, as 100 percent of wages. Benefit payments usually start well as to the workers themselves, do not distinguish in approximately 6 weeks before the expected date of their qualifying conditions between the two types of childbirth and end 6 to 8 weeks afterward. beneficiaries. A few programs require a longer period of A nursing allowance—usually 20 percent or 25 percent covered employment before medical services are pro- of the regular maternity benefit and payable for up to vided to dependents. 6 months or longer—may be provided in addition to the basic cash maternity benefit. A grant for the purchase of Cash Benefits. The cash sickness benefit is usually a layette—clothes and other essentials for the new-born 50 percent to 75 percent of current average earnings, baby—or the provision of a layette itself is furnished frequently with supplements for dependents. Most under some programs. Finally, a lump-sum maternity programs, however, fix a maximum benefit amount or do grant may be paid on the birth of each child. The wives so implicitly through a general earnings ceiling for of insured men may be eligible for this grant. Similar contributions and benefits. Benefits may be reduced benefits may be provided under the family allowance when beneficiaries are hospitalized at the expense of the program. social insurance system. A waiting period of 2 to 7 days is imposed under most Medical Benefits. Medical services usually include at cash sickness programs. As a result, benefits may not be least general practitioner care, some hospitalization, and payable if an illness or injury lasts for only a few days. essential drugs. Services of specialists, surgery, Similarly, in the case of a prolonged inability to work, maternity care, some dental care, a wider range of benefits may not be payable for the first few days. medicines, and certain appliances are commonly added. Under some programs, however, benefits are retroac- Transportation of patients and home-nursing services may tively paid for the waiting period when the disability be included. continues beyond a specified time, commonly 2 to 3 There are three principal methods of meeting the cost weeks. A waiting period reduces administrative and of health care: direct payment to providers by the public benefit costs by excluding many claims for short illnesses system or its agents, reimbursement of patients, and or injuries during which relatively little income is lost and direct provision of medical care. These methods may be can also help reduce the potential for the inappropriate used in different combinations and may be varied for use of the system by workers. different kinds of services. The period during which a worker may receive Under direct payment, the social security or public benefits for a single illness or injury, or in a given medical care system pays providers directly for services. 12-month period, is ordinarily limited to 26 weeks. In Patients usually have little or no direct financial dealings some instances, however, benefits may be drawn for with the care provider. Payments for care are commonly considerably longer and even for an unlimited duration. made on the basis of contracts with service providers or A number of countries permit the agency to extend the the professional groups representing them, such as maximum entitlement period to 39 or 52 weeks in specific practitioner or hospital associations. Remuneration may SSPTW: Africa, 2005 ♦ 9 take the form of a specified fee for each service, a In some countries, however, medical services available capitation payment in return for providing all necessary to dependents are more limited than those provided to services to a given group of persons, or a salary. insured workers or heads of families. Dependents may Under the reimbursement method, the patient makes be subject to a shorter maximum duration for hospital the initial payment and is reimbursed by social security stays, for example, and may have to pay a larger per- for at least part of the cost. A maximum is sometimes centage of the cost of certain services such as medi- placed on the refund, expressed as a percentage of the cines. bill or a flat amount that can vary with the nature of the Administrative Organization. The administrative service as stipulated in a schedule of fees. The ceiling on organization for the sickness and maternity program is medical bills can be placed on the provider when present- similar to that of the old-age, disability, and survivor ing the bill or on the patient when applying for reimburse- program in many countries. Most commonly, such ment. In the latter case, the patient may be reimbursed programs are administered by some form of national for only a small portion of the bill. social security institution. Under some systems, social Under the direct-provision method, the social security security agencies own and operate their own medical system or the government owns and operates its own facilities, furnishing at least part of the services available medical facilities, largely manned by salaried staff. under their programs. Countries using this method may contract for services of In most countries with a national health insurance public or private providers. The patient normally pays no program, responsibility for detailed administration lies fee for most of these services, except insofar as part of with semiautonomous, nongovernment health funds or the social security contribution may be allotted toward associations. All workers covered by the program must health care funding. join one of these funds. Regardless of the funding method used, all national Each health fund usually requires government approval health care programs provide for at least a small degree and must satisfy certain requirements. Workers and, in of cost-sharing by patients, usually on the assumption that some countries, employers participate in the election of such charges discourage overuse. Thus, the patient governing bodies. The funds normally collect contribu- either pays part of the cost to the provider or social tions within minimum and maximum limits. Funds may security agency or receives less than full reimbursement. also receive government subsidies related to their expen- Even under the direct-provision method, with its emphasis ditures or to the number of affiliated members. on basically free medical services to the whole popula- National law usually prescribes the minimum (and, in tion, patients are generally required to pay a small fixed some cases, the maximum) cash benefits and medical fee per medical treatment or prescription or per day of services the health funds may provide. In a few coun- hospitalization. tries, individual funds may determine what specific health Some health care systems have no limit on how long care benefits and services to provide and arrange to medical care may be provided. Other systems fix a furnish medical care to their members. This arrangement maximum, such as 26 weeks, for services provided for can involve delivery through contracts with care and any given illness. Some set limits only on the duration of service providers in the region. hospitalization paid for by social security. Where time Less commonly, government departments are respon- limits are imposed, they may be extended. sible for the actual provision of medical services, usually Maternity Care. Prenatal, obstetric, and postnatal care through a national health service program. The adminis- for working women is provided in most countries under trative responsibility for delivering medical services in the medical services program. Obstetric care is some countries is often separated from the administration sometimes limited to the services of a midwife, although of cash benefit programs, which tend to be linked with a doctor is usually available in case of complications. other types of social security benefits. Care in a maternity home or hospital, as well as essential drugs, are ordinarily furnished where necessary. Work Injury Medical Care for Dependents. When medical benefits The oldest type of social security—the work injury for insured workers are provided through social program—provides compensation for work-connected insurance, similar services are typically furnished to their injuries and occupational illnesses. Such programs spouse and young children (and, in some cases, other usually furnish short- and long-term benefits, depending adults or young relatives living with and dependent on the on both the duration of the incapacity and the age of insured). Maternity care is generally provided to the wife survivors. Work injury benefits nearly always include of an insured man. cash benefits and medical services. Most countries 10 ♦ SSPTW: Africa, 2005 attempt to maintain separate work injury programs that government. Another exception occurs in countries that are not linked directly with other social security provide medical treatment for work-connected illnesses measures. In some countries, however, work injury under their ordinary public medical care programs. benefits are paid under special provisions of the general Work Injury Benefits. Work injury programs provide social security programs. Both types of programs are cash benefits and medical benefits. Cash benefits under dealt with under Work Injury. work injury programs may be subdivided into three types: Types of Systems. There are two basic types of work benefits for temporary disability, those for permanent injury systems: social insurance systems that use a public total disability, and those for permanent partial disability. fund, and various forms of private or semiprivate No qualifying period of coverage or employment is arrangements required by law. In most countries, work ordinarily required for entitlement to work injury benefits. injury programs operate through a central public fund, The concept of work-connected injury has gradually been which may or may not be part of the general social liberalized in a number of countries to cover injuries insurance system. All employers subject to the program occurring while commuting to and from work. must pay contributions to the public carrier, which in turn Temporary disability benefits are usually payable from pays the benefits. the start of an incapacity caused by a work injury, though Countries that rely primarily on private arrangements some programs require a waiting period of 1 to 3 days. require employers to insure their employees against the Benefits normally continue for a limited period, such as risk of employment injury. However, in some of these 26 to 52 weeks, depending on the duration of incapacity. countries, only private insurance is available. In the If incapacity lasts longer, the temporary disability benefit remainder, a public fund does exist, but employers are may be replaced by a permanent disability benefit. In allowed the option of insuring with either a private carrier some systems, temporary benefits may continue for an or the public fund. extended period, particularly if the temporary and perma- The premiums charged by private or mutual insurance nent benefit amounts are identical. companies for work injury protection usually vary ac- The temporary benefit is nearly always a fraction of cording to the experience of work accidents in different the worker’s average earnings during a period immedi- undertakings or industries, and the cost of protection may ately before injury, usually at least one-third to one-half. vary widely. In some countries, however, experience A ceiling may be placed on the earnings considered in rating has been eliminated, and all employers contribute computing a benefit. Temporary benefits under work to the program at one rate. injury programs may be significantly higher than in the In other instances, workers’ compensation laws simply case of ordinary sickness. Benefits are reduced under impose on employers a liability to pay direct compensa- some programs when a worker is hospitalized. tion to injured workers or their survivors. Employers The second type of cash work injury benefit is pro- covered under such laws may simply pay benefits from vided in cases of permanent total disability. Generally, it their own funds as injuries occur or may voluntarily becomes payable immediately after the temporary purchase a private or mutual insurance contract to disability benefit ceases, based on a medical evaluation protect themselves against risk. that the worker’s incapacity is both permanent and total. Work injury programs commonly cover wage The permanent total disability benefit is usually payableCoverage. and salary workers and exclude the self-employed. The for life, unless the worker’s condition changes. A programs of some of the more highly industrialized minority of programs, however, pay only a single lump- nations cover practically all employees. However, many sum grant equal to several years’ wages. countries either exclude all agricultural employees or The permanent total disability benefit usually amounts cover only those who operate power-driven machinery. to two-thirds to three-fourths of the worker’s average Some programs also exclude employees of small earnings before injury, somewhat higher than for ordinary enterprises. disability benefits. In addition, unlike ordinary disability benefits, the rate usually does not vary based on the Source of Funds. Work injury benefits are financed length of employment before the injury. Supplements primarily by employer contributions, reflecting the may be added for dependents and for pensioners requir- traditional assumption that employers should be liable ing the constant attendance of another person, in which when their employees suffer work injuries. Where case benefits may exceed former earnings. In some certain elements of the work injury program are meshed countries, the benefits of apprentices or new labor force with one or more of the other branches of the social entrants who become permanently disabled as a result of insurance system, however, financing usually involves work-connected injury or disease are based on hypotheti- contributions from employees, employers, and the cal lifetime wages or on the wage of an average worker SSPTW: Africa, 2005 ♦ 11 in the particular industry. This mechanism overcomes the countries in which employers are not required to insure or problem of establishing a lifetime benefit based on a very can insure with private carriers and those in which a low starting wage. public agency or fund has sole responsibility for both The third type of cash work injury benefit is provided collecting contributions and paying benefits. when permanent partial disability results in a worker’s loss of partial working or earning capacity. It is usually Unemployment equal to a portion of the full benefit corresponding to the Benefits in this category provide compensation for the percentage loss of capacity. Alternatively, permanent loss of income resulting from involuntary unemployment. partial disability benefits may be paid in the form of a In some countries, these programs are independent of lump-sum grant. Partial disability payments are generally other social security measures and may be closely linked smaller and are usually stipulated in a schedule of pay- with employment services. In other countries, the ments for particular types of injuries. Some systems pay unemployment programs are included with social security the benefit as a lump sum when the extent of disability is measures covering other short-term risks, although below a stated percentage, such as 20 percent. employment services may continue to verify Medical and hospital care and rehabilitation services unemployment and assist in a job search. are also provided to injured workers. Nearly always Unemployment programs, which exist mainly in free, they may include a somewhat wider range of industrialized countries, are compulsory and fairly broad services than the general sickness program. Ordinarily, in scope in many countries. Some countries restrict they are available until the worker recovers or the benefits to those who satisfy a means or income test. In condition stabilizes. In some countries, however, free addition to the programs offering scheduled payments, a care is limited, the amount being based on the duration of number of countries provide lump-sum grants, payable by services or their total cost. either a government agency or the employer; other Survivor Benefits. Most work injury programs also countries provide mandatory individual severance ac- provide benefits to survivors. These benefits are counts, providing total benefits equal to the value of customarily payable to a widow, regardless of her age, accumulated capital in the individual account. In addition, until her death or remarriage; to a disabled widower; and employers in many instances are required to pay lump- to orphans below specified age limits. If the benefit is sum severance indemnities to discharged workers. not exhausted by the immediate survivors’ claims, Coverage. About half of the compulsory unemployment dependent parents or other relatives may be eligible for programs cover the majority of employed persons, small benefits. No minimum period of coverage is regardless of the type of industry. Coverage under the required. remaining programs is limited to workers in industry and Survivor benefits are computed as a percentage of commerce. A few exclude salaried employees earning either the worker’s average earnings immediately before more than a specified amount. Some have special death or the benefit payable (or potentially payable) at provisions covering temporary and seasonal employees. death. These percentages are typically larger than those Several countries have special occupational unemploy- for survivor benefits under the general program and do ment programs, most typically for workers in the building not normally vary with the length of covered employment. trades, dockworkers, railway employees, and seafarers. They are usually about one-third to one-half of the Voluntary insurance systems are limited to industries in worker’s average earnings for a widow, about half as which labor unions have established unemployment funds. much for each half orphan, and about two-thirds as much Membership in these funds is usually compulsory for for each full orphan. A limit is commonly placed on the union members in a covered industry and may be open on combined total of survivor benefits. a voluntary basis to nonunion employees. Noninsured Not all countries, however, provide work injury ben- workers, such as recent school graduates or the self- efits to survivors, and some do not differentiate between employed, for example, may be eligible for a government- survivors in this category and survivors entitled to ben- subsidized assistance benefit when they become efits under other social insurance programs. Some unemployed. schemes pay only a lump sum equal to the worker’s earnings over a specified number of years. Most sys- Source of Funds. The methods used to finance tems also pay a funeral grant equivalent to a fixed sum or unemployment insurance are usually based on the same a percentage of the worker’s earnings. contributory principles as for other branches of social insurance—contributions amounting to a fixed percentage Administrative Organization. The functions involved in of covered wages are paid on a scheduled basis. In administering work injury programs differ widely between 12 ♦ SSPTW: Africa, 2005 many cases, the government also grants a subsidy, permanently disqualified. Nearly all unemployment particularly for extended benefits. systems disqualify a worker who left voluntarily without Unemployment insurance contributions are shared good cause, was dismissed because of misconduct, or equally between employees and employers in many participated in a labor dispute leading to a work stoppage countries. Alternatively, the entire contribution may be that caused the unemployment. The period of disqualifi- made by the employer. However, government subsidies cation varies considerably, from a few weeks to perma- may be quite large, amounting to as much as two-thirds nent disqualification. of the program’s expenditures. Means-tested unemploy- Unemployment Benefits. Weekly benefits are usually a ment assistance programs are financed entirely by percentage of average wages during a recent period. A governments, with no employer or employee contribution. system of wage classes rather than a single fixed Qualifying Conditions. To be entitled to unemployment percentage is used in some countries. The basic rate of benefits, a worker must be involuntarily unemployed and unemployment benefits is usually between 40 percent and have completed a minimum period of contributions or 75 percent of average earnings. However, a ceiling on covered employment. The most common qualifying the wages used for benefit computations or maximum period is 6 months of coverage within the year before benefit provisions may considerably narrow the range employment ceased. In a number of industrialized within which the basic percentage of wages applies. countries, however, students recently out of school who Flat-rate amounts are sometimes payable instead of are unable to find jobs may be eligible for unemployment graduated benefits that vary with past wages and cus- benefits, even without a work record. This benefit tomarily differ only according to the family status or, provides a transition from school to work, particularly in occasionally, the age of the worker. Supplements for a periods of recession. spouse and children are usually added to the basic benefit Nearly all unemployment insurance programs, as well of unemployed workers who are heads of families. as those providing unemployment assistance, require that These supplements are either flat-rate amounts or an applicants be capable of, and available for, work. An additional percentage of average earnings. unemployed worker, therefore, is usually ineligible for Most countries have a waiting period of several days unemployment benefits when incapacitated or otherwise before unemployment benefits become payable to reduce unable to accept a job offer. Usually, the unemployed the administrative burden of dealing with a very large worker must register for work at an employment office number of small claims. Most waiting periods are and report regularly for as long as payments continue. between 3 and 7 days. Some programs have a waiting This close linkage between unemployment benefits and period for each incident of unemployment, and others placement services ensures that benefits will be paid only limit eligibility to once a year. Longer waiting periods after the person has been informed of any current job may be prescribed for certain workers, such as the opportunities and been found unsuitable. seasonally employed. An unemployed worker who refuses an offer of a Most countries place a limit on the period during which suitable job without good cause usually will have benefits unemployment benefits may be continuously drawn. temporarily or permanently suspended. Most programs Typically, this limit varies from 8 to 36 weeks but may be stipulate that the job offered must have been suitable for longer in certain cases. the worker. The definitions of suitable employment vary Duration of benefits may also depend on the length of considerably. Generally, the criteria include the rate of the preceding period of contribution or coverage under pay for the job being offered in relation to previous the program. That criterion may reduce the maximum earnings; distance from the worker’s home; relationship duration of unemployment benefits for workers with brief to the worker’s previous occupation, capabilities, and work histories. However, workers with a long history of training; and the extent to which the job may involve coverage may, under some programs, have their benefit dangerous or unhealthy work. In some countries, long- period extended well beyond the ordinary maximum. term unemployed workers may also be obliged to under- Many unemployed workers who exhaust the right to take employment retraining programs. Some countries ordinary benefits continue to receive some assistance, also provide the unemployed with access to educational provided their means or incomes are below specified placements. If an unemployed worker refuses a place on levels. Recipients are usually required to continue a retraining program or fails, without good cause, to registering and reporting at an employment exchange. attend an educational placement, benefits can be tempo- Some countries that have unemployment assistance but rarily or permanently suspended. no insurance program do not place any limit on the An unemployed worker may satisfy all of the qualify- duration of payments. A number of countries require that ing conditions for a benefit but still be temporarily or insured workers approaching retirement age who have SSPTW: Africa, 2005 ♦ 13 been out of work for a specified period be removed from and several European countries enacted programs during the unemployment rolls and granted a regular old-age the 1920s and 1930s. Most programs in operation today, benefit. however, have been in place since 1945. Administrative Organization. Unemployment insurance Types of Systems and Coverage. Family allowance systems may be administered by government depart- programs are of two types: universal and employment- ments or self-governing institutions that are usually related. The first category, in principle, provides managed by representatives of insured persons, allowances to all resident families with a specified employers, and the government. number of children. The second category provides Unemployment insurance and placement service allowances to all wage and salary workers and, in some programs usually maintain a close administrative relation- cases, the self-employed. A few systems cover some ship that ensures that benefits are paid only to workers categories of nonemployed persons as well. Most who are registered for employment. At the same time, employment-related programs continue to pay family this liaison increases the effectiveness of the placement allowances to insured persons with dependent children in services by providing an incentive, through payment of their care when they retire or are temporarily off the job benefits, for unemployed persons to register and report and receiving sickness, unemployment, work injury, regularly. disability, or other benefits. Employment-related family Some countries have merged the administration of programs also pay allowances to widows of social unemployment insurance and employment service security beneficiaries. programs, especially at the lower administrative levels Source of Funds. The differences in family allowance where claims are received and benefits are paid by the programs are reflected in the methods used for financing. local employment office. Other countries require persons In universal systems, the entire cost is usually covered by to register with a local employment office, but the receipt general revenue. By contrast, countries linking eligibility of claims and payment of benefits are handled by a with employment meet the cost of allowances entirely or separate insurance office. in considerable part from employer contributions, usually In addition to providing an income for the unemployed, at a uniform percentage-of-payroll rate. If employer many governments have elaborate measures to prevent contributions do not cover the entire cost, the remainder or counteract unemployment. The typical procedure is is usually met from a government subsidy. Few countries for government employment services to work with require an employee contribution toward family industry to promote occupational and geographic mobility allowances, although some require self-employed persons of labor and to minimize unemployment caused by to contribute. economic or technological developments; they do that by subsidizing the retraining and relocation of workers in Eligibility. Eligibility is commonly related to the size of industries that are declining or being restructured. Gov- the family and, in some cases, to family income. Many ernments may grant tax and other incentives to industry countries pay allowances beginning with the first child. to locate in areas of high unemployment, or they may In addition, some countries pay an allowance for a allocate funds to create jobs in anticipation of periods of nonemployed wife or other adult dependent, even if there seasonal unemployment. are no children. In some countries, families with only one child are Family Allowances ineligible. Age requirements vary but are usually tied to The general purpose of family allowance programs is to the last year of school or the minimum working age, provide additional income for families with young children which are often the same and fall somewhere between in order to meet at least part of the added costs of their ages 14 and 18. Under most programs, the continuation support. These programs may either be integrated with of schooling, apprenticeship, or vocational training other social security measures or kept entirely separate. qualifies a child for an extension of the age limit. In the In this report, family allowances primarily include regular case of disabled children, many countries extend the age cash payments to families with children. In some limit beyond that for continued education or pay allow- countries, they also include school grants, birth grants, ances indefinitely. maternal and child health services, and allowances for Benefits. Whether a program pays a uniform rate for all adult dependents. children or an increasing or decreasing amount for each Most industrialized countries have family allowance additional child may reflect the history or the intent of the programs that originated in Europe in the 19th century program. The allowance structure may vary, for when some large companies began paying premiums to example, depending on whether the primary intent is to workers with large families. The idea spread gradually, provide assistance or stimulate population growth. The 14 ♦ SSPTW: Africa, 2005 allowance in most countries is a uniform amount for every child, regardless of the number of children in a family. The allowance in most of the other countries increases for each additional child; the payment for a fifth child, for example, may be considerably larger than that for the first or second child. In a few countries, the allowance per child diminishes or ceases with the addition of children beyond a certain number. In some countries, family allowances (and tax exemptions for dependent family members) have been replaced or supplemented by credits or other forms of a negative income tax. Administrative Organization. In countries where family allowances are available to all families and financed from general revenues, the program is usually administered by a government department. Where allowances are payable mainly to families of employed persons and financed primarily from employer contributions, the administration may be by a semiautonomous agency under public supervision. Equalization funds may handle the program’s financial operations. Each employer pays family allowances to its employees with their wages. The firm then settles with the local fund only the surplus or deficit of contributions due, after deducting allowances the firm has paid. A similar procedure of settling only surpluses or deficits is followed by the local funds in relation to the regional equalization funds under whose supervision they operate. The equalization process makes it possible to fix a uniform contribution rate for all employers, regardless of the number of children in their employees’ families. It also eliminates any effect allowances might have in inducing employers to discriminate in hiring workers with children. SSPTW: Africa, 2005 ♦ 15 Table 1. Types of social security programs Sickness and maternity Old age, Cash Cash disability, benefits benefits plus Work Family Country and survivors for both medical care a injury Unemployment allowances Algeria X X X X X X Benin X b c X d X Botswana e d d X d c Burkina Faso X b X X d X Burundi X d d X d X Cameroon X b X X d X Cape Verde X X X X d X Central African Republic X b c X d X Chad X b c X d X Congo (Brazzaville) X b c X d X Congo (Kinshasa) X d c X d X Côte d’Ivoire X b X X d X Egypt X X X X X d Equatorial Guinea X X X X d X Ethiopia X d d X d d Gabon X b X X d X Gambia X d d X d d Ghana X d c X d d Guinea X X f X X d X Kenya X d g X d d Liberia X d d X d d Libya X X X X d c Madagascar X b X X d X Malawi d d g X d d Mali X b X X d X Mauritania X b X X d X Mauritius X d g X c X Morocco X X c X d X Niger X b X X d X Nigeria X d c X c d Rwanda X d d X d d São Tomé and Principe X X c X d d Senegal h b X X d X Seychelles X X c X c d Sierra Leone X d d X d d (Continued) 16 ♦ SSPTW: Africa 2005 Table 1. Continued Sickness and maternity Old age, Cash Cash disability, benefits benefits plus Work Family Country and survivors for both medical care a injury Unemployment allowances South Africa X i c g X X X Sudan X d d X d d Swaziland X d d X d d Tanzania X b X X d d Togo X b c X d X Tunisia X X X X X X Uganda X d d X d d Zambia X d g X d d Zimbabwe X d g X d d SOURCE: Based on information in the country summaries in this volume. a. Coverage is provided for medical care, hospitalization, or both. b. Maternity benefits only. c. Coverage is provided under other programs or through social assistance. d. Has no program or information is not available. e. Old-age and orphan’s benefits only. f. Maternity benefits are provided under Family Allowances. g. Medical benefits only. h. Old-age and survivor benefits only. i. Old-age and disability benefits only, with survivor benefits provided under Unemployment. SSPTW: Africa, 2005 ♦ 17 Table 2. Types of mandatory systems for retirement income Occupational Individual Flat- Earnings- Means- Flat-rate Provident retirement retirement Country rate related tested universal funds schemes schemes Algeria X Benin X Botswana X Burkina Faso X Burundi X Cameroon X Cape Verde X Central African Republic X Chad X Congo (Brazzaville) X Congo (Kinshasa) X Côte d’Ivoire X Egypt X Equatorial Guinea X Ethiopia X Gabon X Gambia X X Ghana X Guinea X Kenya X Liberia X X Libya X Madagascar X Malawi a Mali X Mauritania X Mauritius X X b Morocco X Niger X Nigeria X Rwanda X São Tomé and Principe X Senegal X X Seychelles X X Sierra Leone X South Africa X Sudan X (Continued) 18 ♦ SSPTW: Africa 2005 Table 2. Continued Occupational Individual Flat- Earnings- Means- Flat-rate Provident retirement retirement Country rate related tested universal funds schemes schemes Swaziland X Tanzania X Togo X Tunisia X Uganda X Zambia X Zimbabwe X SOURCE: Based on information in the country summaries in this volume. NOTE: The types of mandatory systems for retirement income are defined as follows: Flat-rate pension: A pension of uniform amount or based on years of service or residence but independent of earnings. It is financed by payroll tax contributions from employees, employers, or both. Earnings-related pension: A pension based on earnings. It is financed by payroll tax contributions from employees, employers, or both. Means-tested pension: A pension paid to eligible persons whose own or family income, assets, or both fall below designated levels. It is generally financed through government contributions, with no contributions from employers or employees. Flat-rate universal pension: A pension of uniform amount normally based on residence but independent of earnings. It is generally financed through government contributions, with no contributions from employers or employees. Provident funds: Employee and employer contributions are set aside for each employee in publicly managed special funds. Benefits are generally paid as a lump sum with accrued interest. Occupational retirement schemes: Employers are required by law to provide private occupational retirement schemes financed by employer and, in some cases, employee contributions. Benefits are paid as a lump sum, annuity, or pension. Individual retirement schemes: Employees and, in some cases, employers must contribute a certain percentage of earnings to an individual account managed by a public or private fund manager chosen by the employee. The accumulated capital in the individual account is used to purchase an annuity, make programmed withdrawals, or a combination of the two and may be paid as a lump sum. a. No mandatory system for retirement income. b. Benefits increase with age, but are subject to an income test for residents aged 60 to 90. SSPTW: Africa, 2005 ♦ 19 Table 3. Demographic and other statistics related to social security, 2005 Per- Life Statutory Early GDP pensionable Total centage expectancy pensionable per population 65 or Dependency at birth (years) age age b capita Country (millions) older ratio a Men Women Men Women Men Women (US$) Algeria 30.2 4.1 63.8 68.7 71.8 60 55 50 45 5,760 Benin 6.2 2.7 96.5 52.5 55.7 55 55 c c 1,070 Botswana 1.5 2.8 81.6 36.5 35.6 65 65 c c 8,170 Burkina Faso 11.5 3.2 108.1 47.0 49.0 55 55 c c 1,100 Burundi 6.3 2.9 101.7 39.8 41.4 60 60 c c 630 Cameroon 14.8 3.7 87.8 49.3 50.6 60 60 50 50 2,000 Cape Verde 0.4 4.6 78.2 67.0 72.8 65 60 c c 5,000 Central African Republic 3.7 4.0 88.8 42.7 46.0 55 50 c c 1,170 Chad 7.8 3.1 98.4 45.1 47.5 55 55 c c 1,020 Congo (Brazzaville) 3.0 3.3 98.4 49.6 53.7 55 55 c c 980 Congo (Kinshasa) 50.9 2.9 106.8 51.0 53.3 65 60 c c 650 Côte d’Ivoire 16.0 3.1 82.5 47.7 48.1 55 55 50 50 1,520 Egypt 67.8 4.1 65.3 66.7 69.9 60 60 c c 3,810 Equatorial Guinea 0.4 3.9 91.0 50.4 53.6 60 60 c c 2,700 Ethiopia 62.9 3.0 92.8 42.8 43.8 60 60 55 55 780 Gabon 1.2 5.8 85.3 51.8 54.0 55 55 c c 6,590 Gambia 1.3 3.1 76.6 45.7 48.5 55 55 45 45 1,690 Ghana 19.3 3.2 79.1 56.0 58.5 60 60 55 55 2,130 Guinea 8.1 2.8 88.0 48.0 49.0 55 55 50 50 2,100 Kenya 30.6 2.8 86.2 48.7 49.9 55 55 c c 1,020 Liberia 2.9 2.9 83.6 54.6 56.7 60 60 c c 900 Libya 5.2 3.4 59.5 69.2 73.3 65 60 c c 7,570 Madagascar 15.9 3.0 91.4 52.5 54.8 60 55 c c 740 Malawi 11.3 2.9 97.1 39.6 39.0 d d d d 580 Mali 11.3 4.0 100.5 51.1 53.0 58 58 53 53 930 Mauritania 2.6 3.2 89.8 50.9 54.1 60 55 c c 2,220 Mauritius 1.1 6.2 46.7 68.4 75.8 60 60 c c 10,810 Morocco 29.8 4.1 63.4 66.8 70.5 60 60 55 55 3,810 Niger 10.8 2.0 107.8 45.9 46.5 60 60 c c 800 Nigeria 113.8 3.0 92.7 52.0 52.2 50 50 c c 860 Rwanda 7.6 2.6 88.4 40.2 41.7 55 55 c c 1,270 São Tomé and Principe 0.1 3.9 105.0 65.4 68.5 62 57 c c 1,317 (Continued) 20 ♦ SSPTW: Africa 2005 Table 3. Continued Per- Life Statutory Early GDP pensionable Total centage expectancy pensionable b per population 65 or Dependency at birth (years) age age capita Country (millions) older ratio a Men Women Men Women Men Women (US$) Senegal 9.4 2.5 88.1 52.5 56.2 55 55 53 53 1,580 Seychelles 0.08 6.2 51.5 66.4 77.4 63 63 c c 18,232 Sierra Leone 4.4 2.9 89.2 39.2 41.8 60 60 55 55 520 South Africa 43.3 3.6 60.2 46.5 48.3 65 60 c c 10,070 Sudan 31.0 3.4 77.2 55.6 58.4 60 60 50 50 1,820 Swaziland 0.9 3.5 81.9 38.1 38.1 50 50 45 45 4,550 Tanzania 35.1 2.4 90.2 50.1 52.0 60 60 55 55 580 Togo 4.5 3.1 90.1 51.1 53.3 55 55 c c 1,480 Tunisia 9.4 5.9 55.2 69.6 72.2 60 60 50 50 6,760 Uganda 23.3 2.5 107.1 45.3 46.8 55 55 50 50 1,390 Zambia 10.4 2.9 97.9 42.6 41.7 55 55 50 50 840 Zimbabwe 12.6 3.2 93.8 43.3 42.4 60 60 c c 2,400 SOURCES: United Nations Population Division, Department of Economic and Social Affairs, World Population Ageing 1950– 2050 (New York: United Nations, 2002); Human Development Report 2004, prepared for the United Nations Development Programme (New York: Oxford University Press, 2004); U.S. Central Intelligence Agency, The World Factbook, 2005 (Washington DC: Central Intelligence Agency, 2005). Information on statutory and pensionable ages is taken from the country summaries in this volume. NOTE: GDP = gross domestic product. a. Population aged 14 or younger plus population aged 65 or older, divided by population aged 15–64. b. General early pensionable age only; excludes early pensionable ages for specific groups of employees. c. The country has no early pensionable age, has one only for specific groups, or information is not available. d. There is no statutory old-age pension system. SSPTW: Africa, 2005 ♦ 21 Table 4. Contribution rates for social security programs, 2005 (in percent) Old age, disability, and survivors All social security programs a Insured Insured Country person Employer Total person Employer Total Algeria 7 b 10 b 17 b 9 25 c 34 Benin 3.6 6.4 10 3.6 16.4 20 Botswana 0 0 0 d 0 0 e 0 d Burkina Faso f 5.5 5.5 10 5.5 16 21.5 Burundi f 2.6 3.9 6.5 2.6 6.9 g 9.5 Cameroon f 2.8 4.2 7 2.8 12.95 15.75 Cape Verde f 3 7 10 7 16 23 Central African Republic f 2 3 5 2 18 20 Chad f,h 2 4 6 2 12.5 14.5 Congo (Brazzaville) f,h 4 8 12 4 20.48 24.48 Congo (Kinshasa) f,h 3.5 3.5 7 3.5 9 12.5 Côte d’Ivoire f,h 3.2 4.8 8 3.2 12.55 15.75 Egypt f,h 13 17 30 14 26 40 Equatorial Guinea h 4.5 i 21.5 i 26 i 4.5 21.5 26 Ethiopia 4 i 6 i 10 i 4 6 10 Gabon f,h 2.5 5 7.5 2.5 20.1 22.6 Gambia f,h 5 10 15 5 11 16 Ghana 5 i 12.5 i 17.5 i 5 12.5 e 17.5 Guinea f 2.5 4 6.5 5 18 23 Kenya f 5 5 10 5 5 e 10 Liberia h 3 3 6 3 4.75 7.75 Libya h 3.75 i 10.5 i 14.25 i 5.25 12.95 j 18.2 Madagascar f 1 9.5 10.5 1 13 14 Malawi 0 k 0 k 0 k 0 0 e 0 Mali f 3.6 5.4 9 3.6 16.4 20 Mauritania f 1 2 3 1 15 16 Mauritius 3 i 6 i 9 i 3 6 9 l Morocco f 3.96 7.93 11.89 4.29 16.1 e 20.39 Niger f 1.6 2.4 4 1.6 15.4 17 Nigeria 7.5 7.5 15 7.5 7.5 e 15 Rwanda 3 3 6 3 5 8 São Tomé and Principe h 4 i 6 i 10 i 4 6 10 Senegal f 5.6 8.4 14 8.6 20.9 29.5 Seychelles f 5 i 10 i 15 i 5 10 15 Sierra Leone 5 10 15 5 10 e 15 South Africa f,h 0 0 0 d 1 1 e 2 d,m (Continued) 22 ♦ SSPTW: Africa 2005 Table 4. Continued Old age, disability, and survivors All social security programs a Insured Insured Country person Employer Total person Employer Total Sudan 8 15 23 8 17 25 Swaziland f,h 5 5 10 5 5 e 10 Tanzania 10 i 10 i 20 i 10 10 e 20 Togo 4 8 12 4 16.5 20.5 Tunisia 7.74 7.76 15.50 10.37 14.88 25.25 Uganda 5 10 15 5 10 e 15 Zambia f 5 5 10 5 5 e 10 Zimbabwe f,h 3 3 6 3 3 e 6 SOURCE: Based on information in the country summaries in this volume. a. Includes old age, disability, and survivors; sickness and maternity; work injury; unemployment; and family allowances. In some countries, the rate may not cover all of these programs. In some cases, only certain groups, such as wage earners, are represented. When the contribution rate varies, either the average or the lowest rate in the range is used. b. Contributions finance old-age benefits only. c. A lump sum contribution is also paid for Family Allowances. d. Government pays the total cost of the Old Age, Disability, and Survivors program. e. Employers pay the total cost of Work Injury. f. Contributions are subject to an upper earnings limit for some benefits. g. Employers pay the total cost of Family Allowances. h. Data are at least 2 years old. i. Also includes the contribution rates for other programs. j. Employers pay the total cost of maternity benefits. k. There is no Old Age, Disability, and Survivors program. l. Government pays the total cost of Unemployment Benefits and Family Allowances. m. Government pays the total cost of Family Allowances. SSPTW: Africa, 2005 ♦ 23 Country Summaries Algeria veterans (age 55) is reduced, according to the assessed degree Algeria of disability. There is no qualifying condition for age for the old-age Exchange rate: US$1.00 equals 73.03 dinars. pension for totally disabled workers who do not meet the disability pension qualifying conditions. Partial pension: Age 50 (men) or age 45 (women) with 20 years Old Age, Disability, and Survivors (men) or 15 years (women) of actual contributions. Regulatory Framework Early pension: Age 50 (men) or age 45 (women) with at least20 years of employment, including 10 years of contributions of First law: 1949. which 3 years were immediately before employment ceased. Current laws: 1983, implemented in 1984, with 1996, 1997, and The insured must not receive income from any professional 1999 amendments; and 1994 (early pension). activity. The early pension is subject to the employer paying a lump-sum contribution, calculated according to the number of Type of program: Social insurance system. years that the insured retires before the normal retirement age. Retirement settlement: Age 60 or older with at least 5 years Coverage or 20 quarters of coverage and ineligible for the old-age All persons employed under a labor contract, domestic pension. workers, actors, and certain categories of fishermen and Disability pension: The total disability pension is payable for apprentices with earnings at least equal to half the legal the loss of all working capacity. Must be currently covered minimum wage. with 60 days of employment in the last 12 months or 180 days Special systems for armed forces personnel and the self- in the last 3 years. employed. Partial disability: A loss of at least 50% of earning capacity. Survivor pension: The deceased was a pensioner or satisfied Source of Funds the qualifying conditions for a pension. Insured person: 7% of gross earnings (including 0.5% for the Death grant: The deceased had 15 days (or 100 hours) of early pension). insured employment in the 3 months before death. The above contributions finance old-age benefits only. Eligible survivors are a widow(er) of any age; children younger Disability benefits, survivor benefits, and the death grant are than age 18 (age 25 if an apprentice with earnings of no more financed under Sickness and Maternity, below. than half the legal minimum wage, age 21 if a student, no limit if Not applicable. disabled or a daughter without income); and dependentSelf-employed person: parents with income less than the minimum old-age pension. Employer: 10% of gross payroll (including 0.5% for the early pension). All of the above benefits are payable abroad only if there is areciprocal agreement. The above contributions finance old-age benefits only. Disability benefits, survivor benefits, and the death grant are financed under Sickness and Maternity, below. Old-Age Benefits Government: None; the government subsidizes the minimum Old-age pension: The pension is equal to 2.5% of average pension. monthly earnings in the 5 years before retirement or the best 5 years of the total professional career (whichever is higher) times the number of years of coverage, up to a maximum of Qualifying Conditions 80%. Old-age pension: Age 60 (men) or age 55 (women and For pension calculation purposes, each covered year or veterans) with at least 15 years of coverage, including at least covered quarter is based on 180 days or 45 days of work, 7.5 years of contributions; regardless of age with 32 years of respectively. The pension is paid monthly. contributions. Retirement from work is necessary. The minimum pension is equal to 75% (250% for veterans) of Workers who do not have the required number of years of the legal monthly minimum wage. coverage at the normal retirement age can continue working for up to 5 years in order to satisfy the qualifying condition. The maximum pension is 15 times the legal monthly minimumwage. Persons employed in arduous or unhealthy work can retire before the normal retirement age. The normal retirement age for Dependent spouse supplement: 1,000 dinars. insured women (age 55) who have raised at least one child for Constant-attendance supplement: Equal to 40% of the at least 9 years is reduced by a year for each child, up to a insured’s pension. The minimum supplement is 2,470.34 dinars. maximum of 3 years. The normal retirement age for disabled SSPTW: Africa, 2005 ♦ 27 Algeria Early pension: The pension is reduced by 1% for each year The minimum death grant is 12 times the legal monthly that the pension is awarded before the normal retirement age. minimum wage. The pension is increased every 12 months by 1% until the The legal monthly minimum wage is 10,000 dinars. pensioner reaches the normal retirement age, when it is then recalculated according to the number of years the pension was awarded before the normal retirement age and the insured’s Administrative Organization total coverage period. Ministry of Labor and Social Security (http://www.mtss.gov.dz) The minimum early pension is 75% of the legal monthly provides general supervision. minimum wage. National Retirement Fund administers the old-age program for Dependent spouse supplement: Equal to 12.5% of the legal salaried employees. monthly minimum wage. National Social Insurance Fund (http://www.cnas.org.dz) The legal monthly minimum wage is 10,000 dinars. administers the disability and survivors program for salaried Retirement settlement: A lump sum equal to 2.5% of average employees. monthly earnings in the 5 years before retirement or the best National Social Security Fund for Nonwage Earners (http:// 5 years of the total professional career (whichever is higher) www.casnos.com.dz) administers the old-age and disability times the number of years of coverage. program for nonwage earners. Benefit adjustment: Benefits are adjusted annually in May. Sickness and Maternity Permanent Disability Benefits Regulatory Framework Disability pension: The pension is equal to 80% of average earnings during the last year or the best 3 years of the total First law: 1949. professional career (whichever is higher). At the normal Current law: 1983, implemented in 1984. retirement age, the disability pension is replaced by an old-age Type of program: Social insurance system. pension of at least the same amount. Constant-attendance supplement: Equal to 40% of the pension. Coverage Partial disability: The pension is equal to 60% of average Cash and medical benefits: All employed persons. earnings during the last year or the best 3 years of the total Medical benefits only: Persons receiving an unemployment professional career (whichever is higher). benefit, persons receiving the early pension, national liberation The minimum pension is equal to the legal monthly minimum war pensioners, disabled persons with an assessed degree of wage. disability of at least 50%, unemployed students, and their respective dependents; the dependents of certain categories of The legal monthly minimum wage is 10,000 dinars. prisoner. Benefit adjustment: Benefits are adjusted annually in May. Source of Funds Survivor Benefits Insured person: 1.5% of gross earnings. Survivor pension: The widow(er) receives 75% of the old-age The above contributions also finance disability benefits, pension or disability pension (50% if there are other survivors) survivor benefits, and the death grant under Old Age, paid or accrued to the deceased. If there is more than one Disability, and Survivors, above. widow, the pension is split equally among them. Self-employed person: Not applicable. Other eligible survivors: 30% of the old-age pension or disability pension paid or accrued to the deceased is payable Employer: 12.5% of gross payroll. for one other survivor; 40% is split equally if there is more than The above contributions also finance disability benefits, one other eligible survivor. survivor benefits, and the death grant under Old Age, If there is no surviving spouse, 45% of the old-age pension or Disability, and Survivors, above. disability pension paid or accrued to the deceased is payable Government: None. to a full orphan and 30% is payable to a dependent parent. The total survivor pension must not exceed 90% of the Qualifying Conditions pension paid or accrued to the deceased. Cash sickness benefits: Must be in covered employment at Benefit adjustment: Benefits are adjusted annually in May. the onset of incapacity. For up to 6 months’ entitlement, the Death grant: A lump sum equal to 12 times the deceased’s insured must have been employed for 15 days (or 100 hours) in best monthly earnings in the year before death. the last quarter or 60 days (or 400 hours) in the last 12 months; 28 ♦ SSPTW: Africa, 2005 Algeria for entitlement beyond 6 months, the insured must have been Full medical care in government hospitals is provided free and employed for 60 days (or 400 hours) in the last 12 months or for unlimited duration for certain categories of sickness; some 180 days in the last 3 years. categories may require cost sharing. Cash maternity benefits: Must have 15 days (or 100 hours) Cost sharing: A cash refund of 80% of medical expenses (100% of insured employment in the last 3 months or 60 days (or for insured persons with chronic diseases, work injury 400 hours) in the last 12 months before the onset of pregnancy. beneficiaries assessed as more than 50% disabled, and old-age Medical benefits: Must have 15 days (or 100 hours) of pensioners or disability pensioners with income less than the insured employment in the 3 months before the year of the legal minimum wage). onset of the incapacity or 60 days (or 400 hours) of Maternity benefits are reimbursed at 100%; hospital charges employment in the last 12 months. are limited to 8 days. Sickness and Maternity Benefits Administrative Organization Sickness benefit: The benefit is equal to 50% of daily Ministry of Labor and Social Security (http://www.mtss.gov.dz) earnings (100% for an extended illness or hospitalization) for provides general supervision. the first 15 days; thereafter, 100% of daily earnings from the National Social Insurance Fund (http://www.cnas.org.dz) 16th day up to a maximum of 3 years; 4 years under certain administers the disability and survivors program for salaried circumstances. employees. The minimum daily benefit (at the 100% rate) is eight times the National Social Security Fund for Nonwage Earners (http:// legal hourly minimum wage. www.casnos.com.dz) administers the old-age and disability The legal hourly minimum wage is 52.17 dinars. program for nonwage earners. Maternity benefit: The benefit is equal to 100% of earnings. The benefit is payable for up to 14 weeks (including up to Work Injury 6 weeks before the expected date of childbirth). The minimum daily benefit is eight times the legal hourly Regulatory Framework minimum wage. First law: 1919. The legal hourly minimum wage is 52.17 dinars. Current law: 1983, implemented in 1984. Type of program: Social insurance system. Workers’ Medical Benefits Benefits include medical treatment, surgery, hospitalization, Coverage medicines, laboratory services, ophthalmology and optician services, some dental care including dental prostheses, All employed persons, apprentices, students in technical functional and vocational rehabilitation, prostheses, thermal schools and trainees, persons undergoing medical or and specialized cures, and transportation. vocational rehabilitation, some kinds of voluntary worker, wards of juvenile courts, students, and convicted persons Full medical care in government hospitals is provided free and working in prison workshops. for unlimited duration for certain categories of sickness; some categories may require cost sharing. Cost sharing: A cash refund of 80% of medical expenses (100% Source of Funds for insured persons with chronic diseases, work injury Insured person: None; work injury pensioners whose beneficiaries assessed as more than 50% disabled, and old-age permanent disability pension is more than the legal minimum pensioners or disability pensioners with income less than the wage contribute 2% of the pension. legal minimum wage). Self-employed person: Not applicable. Maternity benefits are reimbursed at 100%; hospital charges Employer: 1% of gross payroll. are limited to 8 days. Government: None. Dependents’ Medical Benefits Qualifying Conditions Benefits include medical treatment, surgery, hospitalization, medicines, laboratory services, ophthalmology and optician Work injury benefits: There is no minimum qualifying period. services, some dental care including dental prostheses, Accidents that occur while commuting to and from work are functional and vocational rehabilitation, prostheses, thermal covered. and specialized cures, and transportation. SSPTW: Africa, 2005 ♦ 29 Algeria Temporary Disability Benefits The total survivor pension must not exceed 90% of the deceased’s average earnings. The benefit is equal to 100% of net daily earnings. The benefit is payable from the day after the onset of disability until full Death grant: A lump sum equal to 12 times the deceased’s recovery or the certification of permanent disability. best monthly earnings in the year before death. The minimum daily benefit is 8 times the legal minimum hourly The minimum death grant is 12 times the legal monthly wage. minimum wage. The legal minimum hourly wage is 52.17 dinars. The legal monthly minimum wage is 10,000 dinars. Permanent Disability Benefits Administrative Organization Permanent disability pension: The pension is equal to Ministry of Labor and Social Security (http://www.mtss.gov.dz) average earnings during the last 12 months times the assessed provides general supervision. degree of disability. National Social Insurance Fund (http://www.cnas.org.dz) A lump sum is paid if the assessed degree of disability is less administers the disability and survivors program for salaried than 10%. employees. The annual earnings for pension calculation purposes must not be less than 2,300 times the legal minimum hourly wage. Unemployment The legal minimum hourly wage is 52.17 dinars. Regulatory Framework Constant-attendance supplement: Equal to 40% of the pension. First and current law: 1994. Foreign worker settlement: A lump sum equal to three times Type of program: Social insurance system. the annual pension is payable to injured foreign workers who leave the country, unless there is a reciprocal agreement. Coverage Involuntarily unemployed salaried workers. Workers’ Medical Benefits Benefits include medical treatment, surgery, hospitalization, Source of Funds medicines, laboratory services, ophthalmology and optician services, some dental care, prostheses, functional and Insured person: 0.5% of gross earnings; contributions are vocational rehabilitation, thermal and specialized cures, and paid on unemployment benefits. transportation. Self-employed person: Not applicable. There is no limit to duration. Employer: 1.5% of gross payroll plus a lump-sum contribution equal to 80% of each laid-off worker’s average Survivor Benefits monthly earnings in the last year for each year of employment (up to a maximum of 12 years), if the employee worked for the Survivor pension: The widow receives 75% (50% if there are employer for more than 3 years. other survivors) of the deceased’s average earnings in the 12 months before the date of the accident resulting in the Government: None. insured’s death. If there is more than one widow, the pension is split equally among them. Qualifying Conditions Eligible survivors are a widow of any age; children younger Unemployment benefit: The insured is involuntarily than age 18 (age 25 if an apprentice with earnings of no more unemployed; must have at least 3 years of contributions, than half the legal minimum wage, age 21 if a student, no limit if including the 6 months before unemployment; must not receive disabled or a daughter without income); and dependent income from any professional activity; must have been looking parents with income less than the minimum old-age pension. for work for at least 3 months; and must be a resident of Survivors of foreign workers are eligible for benefits if they are Algeria. The previous employer must have paid all required resident or are covered by a reciprocal agreement. social security contributions. Other eligible survivors: 30% of the deceased’s average earnings are payable for one survivor; 40% is split equally if Unemployment Benefits there is more than one eligible survivor. The benefit is calculated according to a reference salary that is If there is no surviving spouse, 45% of the deceased’s average equal to 50% of the sum of the insured’s average monthly earnings are payable to a full orphan and 30% to a dependent salary during the last 12 months and the monthly legal parent. minimum wage (1,000 dinars). The benefit is payable for 30 ♦ SSPTW: Africa, 2005 Algeria 2 months for each year of contributions, up to a maximum of Qualifying Conditions 36 months. Family benefits: The child must be younger than age 17 The minimum duration of benefit entitlement is 12 months. (age 18 if an apprentice, age 21 if a student or disabled). The The total duration of benefit entitlement is split into four equal insured must earn at least half the legal monthly minimum periods, and the benefit payable declines over the four periods. wage; be disabled or ill; or be receiving an unemployment The monthly benefit is equal to 100% of the reference salary benefit, early retirement benefit, or old-age pension. during the first period, 80% during the second period, 60% The legal monthly minimum wage is 10,000 dinars. during the third period, and 50% during the fourth period. The minimum monthly benefit is 70% of the legal monthly Family Allowance Benefits minimum wage. The maximum monthly benefit is three times the legal monthly Family allowances: If family earnings are 15,000 dinars a minimum wage. month or less, the benefit is 600 dinars a month for each of thefirst five children and 300 dinars for each additional child. If The legal monthly minimum wage is 10,000 dinars. family earnings exceed 15,000 dinars a month, the benefit is Nonworking spouse supplement: 500 dinars a month, if the 300 dinars a month for each child. insured receives an unemployment benefit of less than School allowance: Payable for children older than age 6. If 7,000 dinars a month. family earnings are 15,000 dinars a month or less, the benefit is Unemployment beneficiaries and their dependents are eligible 800 dinars for each of the first five children and 400 dinars for for sickness, maternity, and family benefits (entitlement may each additional child. If family earnings exceed 15,000 dinars a continue for up to 12 months after the unemployment benefit month, the benefit is 400 dinars for each child. The school ceases). Periods during which the unemployment benefit has allowance is payable once a year in addition to family been paid are credited for pension calculation purposes. allowances. Administrative Organization Administrative Organization Ministry of Labor and Social Security (http://www.mtss.gov.dz) Ministry of Labor and Social Security (http://www.mtss.gov.dz) provides general supervision. provides general supervision. National Unemployment Insurance Fund (http://www.cnac.dz) National Social Insurance Fund (http://www.cnas.org.dz) administers the program. administers the program. Family Allowances Regulatory Framework First and current law: 1941, with 1994 amendment. Type of program: Employment-related system. Coverage Nonagricultural employees and social insurance beneficiaries. Special systems for public-sector employees and employees of certain agricultural cooperatives. Source of Funds Insured person: None. Self-employed person: Not applicable. Employer: 25% of the cost of family allowances for employees. Government: 75% of the cost of family allowances for employees; the total cost of family allowances for social insurance beneficiaries. SSPTW: Africa, 2005 ♦ 31 Benin The old-age pension is suspended if the pensioner begins new Benin covered employment. Exchange rate: US$1.00 equals Old-age settlement: Ineligible for the old-age pension at 493.54 CFA francs. age 55 with at least 12 months of insurance coverage. Disability pension: A loss of 2/3 of earning capacity with 60 months of insurance coverage, including 6 months in the Old Age, Disability, and Survivors 12 months before the onset of disability (the coverage condition is waived for a disability that is the result of an Regulatory Framework accident). First law: 1970. An insurance month corresponds to any month in which the Current law: 2003 (social security). insured worked at least 18 days or 120 hours in covered employment, including periods for which cash maternity or Type of program: Social insurance system. work injury benefits are paid. Survivor pension: The deceased was a pensioner, satisfied Coverage the qualifying conditions for a pension, or had at least Employed persons; managers of companies under certain 180 months of insurance coverage. conditions. An insurance month corresponds to any month in which the Voluntary coverage for persons previously insured for at least insured worked at least 18 days or 120 hours in covered 6 consecutive months. employment, including periods for which cash maternity or work injury benefits are paid. Exclusions: Self-employed persons, agricultural workers, informal economy workers, cooperative members, apprentices, Survivor settlement: The deceased was ineligible for a interns, and students at technical schools. pension. Special system for civil servants. Eligible survivors include a widow married at least a year before the insured’s death or who is pregnant by or who had a Voluntary provident fund for citizens working abroad. child with the deceased; a disabled or dependent widower who was married to the deceased at least a year before her death; Source of Funds and a dependent child younger than age 19 (age 22 if an apprentice, a student, or disabled). Insured person: 3.6% of gross earnings. Voluntarily insured persons contribute a sum equal to 10% of the last gross salary Benefits are payable abroad only if there is a reciprocal paid under compulsory insured employment. agreement. The minimum monthly earnings for contribution purposes are equal to the legal monthly minimum wage (27,500 CFA francs in Old-Age Benefits June 2004). Old-age pension: The pension is equal to 20% of the Contributions made by pensioners aged 55 to 60 who begin insured’s average monthly earnings during the last 10 years. new covered employment or by foreign workers who leave the An increment of 2% is paid for every 12-month period of national territory may be reimbursed. insurance coverage beyond 180 months, up to a maximum of Self-employed person: Not applicable. 60% of the insured’s earnings (wage increases above 10% a year during the last 10 years are not taken into account in the Employer: 6.4% of gross payroll. calculation). The minimum monthly earnings for contribution purposes are The minimum pension is 60% of the legal monthly minimum equal to the legal monthly minimum wage (27,500 CFA francs in wage (27,500 CFA francs in June 2004). June 2004). The maximum pension is 1,700,00 CFA francs a month Contributions are paid monthly by employers with 20 or more (June 2004). The maximum is set periodically by a Decree of employees or quarterly by employers with 1 to 19 employees. the Council of Ministers. Government: None. Old-age settlement: A lump sum equal to the insured’s average monthly earnings during the last 10 years times the Qualifying Conditions number of 12-month periods of insurance coverage. Old-age pension: Age 55 with 180 months of insurance Benefit adjustment: Pensions are adjusted for changes in the coverage. Retirement from covered employment is necessary. cost of living, depending on the financial resources of the system. (The last adjustment was made on January 1, 2001.) An insurance month corresponds to any month in which the insured worked at least 18 days or 120 hours in covered employment, including periods for which cash maternity or work injury benefits are paid. 32 ♦ SSPTW: Africa, 2005 Benin Permanent Disability Benefits Benefit adjustment: Pensions are adjusted for changes in the cost of living, depending on the financial resources of the Disability pension: The pension is equal to 20% of the system. (The last adjustment was made on January 1, 2001.) insured’s average monthly earnings during the last 10 years. An increment of 2% is paid for every 12-month period of insurance coverage beyond 180 months, up to a maximum of Administrative Organization 60% of the insured’s earnings. For each year that a claim is Ministry of Public Administration, Labor, and Administrative made before the insured reaches age 55, the insured is credited Reform provides general supervision. with a 6-month insurance period. Managed by a tripartite board and director, the National Social The minimum pension is 60% of the legal monthly minimum Security Fund administers the program. wage (27,500 CFA francs in June 2004). The maximum pension is 190,500 CFA francs a month Sickness and Maternity (June 2004). The maximum is set periodically by a Decree of the Council of Ministers. Regulatory Framework Constant-attendance supplement: Equal to 40% of the pension. First law: 1952. The disability pension ceases at age 55 and is replaced by an Current laws: 1998 (labor code) and 2003 (social security). old-age pension of the same value. Type of program: Social insurance system. Maternity When the insured is entitled to receive two or more pensions, benefits only. the full amount of the higher pension and half the amount of the other pension(s) are paid. Coverage Benefit adjustment: Pensions are adjusted for changes in the Employed women; managers of companies under certain cost of living, depending on the financial resources of the conditions. system. (The last adjustment was made on January 1, 2001.) Exclusions: Self-employed persons, agricultural workers, informal economy workers, cooperative members, apprentices, Survivor Benefits interns, and students at technical schools. Survivor pension: 40% of the pension the deceased received Special system for civil servants. or would have received is paid to the widow(er). If there is more than one widow, the pension is split equally among them. A disabled or dependent widower is eligible to receive a Source of Funds pension on behalf of his first deceased spouse only. Insured person: None. The pension ceases on remarriage. Self-employed person: Not applicable. Remarriage settlement: A lump sum equal to 6 months’ pension Employer: 0.2% of gross payroll. is paid. The minimum monthly earnings for contribution purpose are Orphan’s pension: 20% of the deceased’s pension for one equal to the legal monthly minimum wage (27,500 CFA francs in orphan; 40% for two or more orphans; 30% for a full orphan June 2004). who is a single child. The amount payable may be recalculated Contributions are paid monthly by employers with 20 or more if the number of eligible orphans changes. employees or quarterly by employers with 1 to 19 employees. The total survivor pension must not exceed 80% of the Government: None. deceased’s pension. If an eligible survivor also receives survivor benefits under the Qualifying Conditions work injury program, the work injury survivor pension is paid in full along with the part of the nonwork injury survivor Cash sickness benefits: No statutory benefits are provided. pension that exceeds this amount. Cash maternity benefits: Six months of insurance coverage. Survivor settlement: One month of the pension the deceased An insurance month corresponds to any month in which the would have been entitled to with 180 months of insurance for insured worked at least 18 days or 120 hours in covered each 6-month period of insurance the deceased had at the time employment, including periods for which cash maternity or of death. The settlement is split equally between the eligible work injury benefits are paid. spouse and orphans. In the absence of an eligible spouse and orphans, the settlement is paid to the deceased’s parents. Benefits are payable abroad only if there is a reciprocal agreement. SSPTW: Africa, 2005 ♦ 33 Benin Sickness and Maternity Benefits The minimum monthly earnings for contribution purpose are equal to the legal monthly minimum wage (27,500 CFA francs in Sickness benefit: No statutory benefits are provided. (The June 2004). 1998 labor code requires employers to provide paid sick leave.) Contributions are paid monthly by employers with 20 or more Maternity benefit: 100% of the insured’s earnings at the time employees or quarterly by employers with 1 to 19 employees. the maternity leave starts (the employer pays half). The benefit is payable for 6 weeks before and 8 weeks after the expected Government: None; contributes as an employer. date of childbirth. Four additional weeks are payable if complications arise from the pregnancy or childbirth. Qualifying Conditions Work injury benefits: There is no minimum qualifying period. Workers’ Medical Benefits Accidents that occur while commuting to and from work are No statutory benefits are provided. (The 1998 labor code covered. requires employers to pay 60% of the cost of health and medical services for employees.) Temporary Disability Benefits The benefit is 2/3 of the insured’s average daily earnings Dependents’ Medical Benefits during the last month before the month in which the accident The insured’s spouse and dependent children receive the same occurred. benefits as the insured according to the labor code. (Some The minimum monthly earnings for benefit purposes are equal maternity, child health, and welfare services are provided under to the legal monthly minimum wage (27,500 CFA francs in Family Allowances, below.) June 2004). The benefit is payable from the day after the onset of disability Administrative Organization until full recovery or death. The maximum duration of the Ministry of Public Administration, Labor, and Administrative benefit is 12 months; thereafter, the benefit is replaced by a Reform provides general supervision. temporary disability pension based on the insured’s yearlywages in the year before the onset of disability, up to a ceiling Managed by a tripartite board and director, the National Social of 10 times the legal minimum wage multiplied by 1.4, Security Fund administers the program. depending on the assessed degree of disability. The degree of disability is assessed by an approved doctor. Work Injury Permanent Disability Benefits Regulatory Framework Permanent disability pension: For a total disability, the First law: 1959. pension is equal to 100% of the insured’s annual earnings in Current law: 2003 (social security). the year before the year of the onset of disability up to three times the legal minimum wage, plus 50% of the portion of Type of program: Social insurance system. wages between this limit and 10 times the legal minimum wage. Partial disability: For an assessed degree of disability of 20% Coverage or more, the pension is equal to the insured’s annual earnings Employed persons, managers of companies under certain in the year before the year of the onset of disability multiplied conditions, apprentices, interns, students at technical schools, by 0.5 times the assessed degree of disability for the portion of members of cooperatives, nonsalaried managers of disability between 1% and 50% and by 1.5 times the assessed cooperatives and their assistants, seamen, local authority degree of disability for the portion above 50%. employees, and some public-sector employees and civil The minimum monthly earnings for pension calculation servants. purposes are equal to the legal monthly minimum wage Exclusions: Self-employed persons, agricultural workers, and multiplied by 1.4. The legal monthly minimum wage is informal economy workers. 27,500 CFA francs (June 2004). Constant-attendance supplement: Equal to 40% of earnings. Source of Funds Pensions are paid monthly if the assessed degree of disability None. is 75% or more; otherwise, monthly or quarterly.Insured person: Not applicable. The degree of disability is assessed by an approved doctor.Self-employed person: 1% to 4% of gross payroll, according to the When the insured is entitled to two or more pensions, theEmployer: assessed risk. higher pension and half the amount of the other pension orpensions are paid. 34 ♦ SSPTW: Africa, 2005 Benin Disability allowance: For an assessed degree of disability of Managed by a tripartite board and director, the National Social less than 20%, a lump sum equal to 5 years’ pension is paid, Security Fund administers the program. according to the assessed degree of disability. The degree of disability is assessed by an approved doctor. Family Allowances Benefit adjustment: Pensions are adjusted for changes in the cost of living, depending on the financial resources of the Regulatory Framework system. (The last adjustment was made on January 1, 2001.) First law: 1955. Current law: 2003 (social security). Workers’ Medical Benefits Type of program: Employment-related system. Benefits include medical and surgical care, hospitalization, medicines, appliances, prostheses, rehabilitation, and transportation. Coverage Employed persons, managers of companies under certain Survivor Benefits conditions, local authority employees, and some public-sector employees and civil servants. Survivor pension: 30% of the deceased’s earnings taken into account for the calculation of the disability pension are Exclusions: Self-employed persons, agricultural workers, payable to a spouse who married the deceased before the informal economy workers, cooperative members, apprentices, onset of disability (a divorced spouse who received alimony interns, and students at technical schools. may also be entitled to a pension up to 20% of the deceased’s Special system for civil servants. earnings). If there is more than one widow, the pension is split equally among them. Source of Funds The pension ceases on remarriage. Insured person: None. Remarriage settlement: A lump sum equal to 6 months’ pension Self-employed person: Not applicable. is paid. Employer: 8.8% of gross payroll. Orphan’s pension: 15% of the deceased’s earnings taken into account for the calculation of the disability pension are The minimum monthly earnings for contribution purposes are payable to each of the first two orphans and 10% for each equal to the legal monthly minimum wage (27,500 CFA francs in additional orphan. Eligible orphans are dependent children June 2004). younger than age 19 (age 22 if an apprentice, a student, or Contributions are paid monthly by employers with 20 or more disabled). An orphan receiving the pension may not receive employees or quarterly by employers with 1 to 19 employees. family allowances. Government: None; contributes as an employer. Dependent parent’s and grandparent’s pension: 10% of the deceased’s earnings taken into account for the calculation of the disability pension each. Qualifying Conditions The total survivor pension must not exceed 85% of the Family allowances: The child must be younger than age 15 disability pension the deceased was or would have been (age 22 if an apprentice, a student, or disabled). The parent entitled to; otherwise, the pensions are reduced proportionally. must have 6 months of insurance and be currently working at least 18 days or 120 hours during the month, including periods If an eligible survivor also receives survivor benefits under the for which cash maternity or work injury benefits are paid. old-age, disability, and survivors program, the work injury survivor pension is paid in full along with the part of the The child must not receive an orphan’s pension. nonwork injury survivor pension that exceeds this amount. If one of the parents receives family allowances from the Funeral grant: Funeral costs are reimbursed up to five times special system for civil servants, only the higher benefit award the monthly legal minimum wage (27,500 CFA francs a month in is paid. June 2004). Prenatal allowance: Must undergo prescribed medical Benefit adjustment: Pensions are adjusted for changes in the examinations. The pregnant spouse of an insured worker is cost of living, depending on the financial resources of the also eligible. system. (The last adjustment was made on January 1, 2001.) Benefits are payable abroad only if there is a reciprocal agreement. Administrative Organization Ministry of Public Administration, Labor, and Administrative Family Allowance Benefits Reform provides general supervision. Family allowances: 2,000 CFA francs a month for each child, payable from the first day of the month of birth. SSPTW: Africa, 2005 ♦ 35 Benin Prenatal allowance: 1,500 CFA francs a month for 9 months. Some maternity, child health, and welfare services are also provided. Benefit adjustment: Benefits are adjusted for changes in the cost of living, depending on the financial resources of the system. Administrative Organization Ministry of Public Administration, Labor, and Administrative Reform provides general supervision. Managed by a tripartite board and director, the National Social Security Fund administers the program. 36 ♦ SSPTW: Africa, 2005 Botswana Survivor Benefits Botswana Orphan care benefit: A monthly food basket equal to Exchange rate: US$1.00 equals 4.35 pula. 216.60 pula; a school uniform, transportation fees, sports fees, tour fees, clothing, rental fees where applicable, and other payments as required. The benefits are received by the orphan’s caregiver (guardian) or by an orphan acting as the Old Age, Disability, and Survivors head of the family (guardian) for younger siblings. Regulatory Framework Administrative Organization First and current law: 1996 (universal pension and orphan care). Department of Labor and Social Security (http://www.gov.bw)provides general supervision and administers the program. Type of program: Universal old-age pension and orphan care benefit system. Social Benefits Division, Department of Social Services,Ministry of Local Government (http://www.gov.bw) administers Note: Botswana does not yet have national social security the program. legislation. Sickness and Maternity Coverage Old-age pension: All citizens of Botswana aged 65 or older. Regulatory Framework Special system for public-sector employees. No statutory benefits are provided. Orphan care benefit: All orphaned citizens of Botswana The amended 1982 Employment Act provides for up to 14 days younger than age 18. of paid sick leave a year. The amended 1984 Employment Order requires employers in Source of Funds designated areas to pay maternity benefits to female employees. The maternity benefit is a minimum of 25% of Insured person: None. wages or 0.5 pula for each day of absence, whichever is Self-employed person: None. greater, and is payable for 6 weeks before and 6 weeks after the Employer: None. expected date of childbirth; may be extended for an additional 2 weeks for complications arising from childbirth. Maternity Government: Total cost. benefits may be extended for an additional 2 weeks for complications arising from childbirth. Qualifying Conditions The 1982 Employment Act requires employers in designated Old-age pension: Age 65 or older and a resident. areas to provide certain medical services to employees and their dependents, including transportation to the nearest Disability benefit: No statutory benefits are provided; cash benefits are provided to registered destitute disabled persons hospital. under the destitute program (see Family Allowances, below). Orphan care benefit: Provided for the loss of one parent Work Injury (single parent) or both parents (married couple); a social orphan whose parents’ whereabouts is not known. The child Regulatory Framework must be younger than age 18. First law: 1936. Current laws: 1977, with 1980 and 1985 amendments; and Old-Age Benefits 1998. Old-age pension: A flat-rate monthly pension of 166 pula. Type of program: Employer-liability system, normally Benefit adjustment: Benefits are adjusted periodically involving insurance with a private carrier. according to changes in the cost of living. Coverage Permanent Disability Benefits Employed persons, including government and local authority Disability benefit: No statutory benefits are provided; cash employees and armed forces personnel. benefits are provided to registered destitute disabled persons Exclusions: Casual workers and family labor. under the destitute program (see Family Allowances, below). SSPTW: Africa, 2005 ♦ 37 Botswana Source of Funds Funeral grant: A lump sum, up to a maximum of 100 pula. (The amount is deducted from the survivor benefit.) Insured person: None. Self-employed person: Not applicable. Administrative Organization Employer: Total cost, met through the direct provision of benefits or the payment of insurance premiums. Department of Labor and Social Security (http://www.gov.bw) enforces the law. Government: None. Employers may insure against liability with private insurance companies. Qualifying Conditions Work injury benefits: There is no minimum qualifying period. Unemployment Temporary Disability Benefits Regulatory Framework 66% of the insured’s earnings is payable for up to 6 months; No statutory benefits are provided. the benefit may be extended for additional 3-month periods up Under the amended 1984 Employment Order, employees with to a total of 24 months with the approval of the Commissioner 60 months of continuous employment are entitled to a for Workmen’s Compensation. The benefit is payable after a 7- severance benefit from their employer. day waiting period until full recovery or certification of permanent disability. Department of Labor and Social Security (http://www.gov.bw) enforces the law. Partial disability: Reduced amounts are payable for partial disability. Commissioner of Labor and Social Security provides supervision. Permanent Disability Benefits Family Allowances If totally disabled, a lump-sum benefit equal to 60 months of the insured’s earnings minus the value of any temporary Regulatory Framework disability benefit paid previously. Botswana provides monthly cash benefits (61 pula) and The minimum benefit is 16,000 pula. monthly food rations (equal to 172 pula) to all destitute The maximum benefit is 250,000 pula. residents, including those unable to support themselves Constant-attendance supplement: Up to a maximum of 25% of because of old age, disability, or a chronic health condition; the permanent disability benefit. needy children younger than age 18 with a terminally ill parent; or orphans or abandoned children younger than age 18 not Partial disability: A percentage of the full benefit according to covered by the orphan care program. the assessed degree of disability, according to the schedule in law. The maximum partial disability benefit is 200,000 pula. Workers’ Medical Benefits Medical and surgical care, hospitalization, and medicines are provided by the employer, up to a maximum of 75,000 pula; the costs of prostheses, up to a maximum of 10,000 pula; and transportation costs, up to a maximum of 1,500 pula. Survivor Benefits Survivor benefit: A lump sum equal to 48 months of the insured’s earnings minus the value of any temporary disability benefit previously paid to the deceased is payable to dependent survivors. The minimum benefit is 8,000 pula. The maximum benefit is 20,000 pula. Reduced benefit amounts are paid if the survivor was only partially dependent. 38 ♦ SSPTW: Africa, 2005 Burkina Faso insurance coverage. The pension is payable from age 50 if Burkina Faso prematurely aged. Retirement from gainful employment is necessary. Exchange rate: US$1.00 equals 493.54 CFA francs. For a transitional period until 2009, the old-age pension is payable from age 55. Deferred pension: A deferred pension is possible. Old Age, Disability, and Survivors The pension is payable abroad. Regulatory Framework Old-age settlement: Payable if the insured is not eligible for a pension at the normal retirement age. Retirement from gainful First law: 1960. employment is necessary. Current law: 1972 (social security), implemented in 1973, with Disability pension: A permanent loss of 2/3 of earning 2005 (retirement age) amendment. capacity for any work with 5 years of insurance coverage Type of program: Social insurance system. including at least 6 months in the last year. The insured must be younger than the normal retirement age. There is no Coverage minimum qualifying period for a disability that is the result of anonoccupational accident. The loss in working capacity is Employed persons and apprentices. assessed by a doctor approved or designated by the National Voluntary coverage for persons previously insured for at least Social Security Fund. 6 consecutive months. The pension is payable abroad. Exclusions: Self-employed persons and temporary workers. Survivor pension: The deceased satisfied the qualifying Special system for civil servants. conditions for the old-age pension or disability pension, was a pensioner at the time of death, or had 180 months of insurance coverage. Source of Funds The pension is payable to a widow who was married to the Insured person: 5.5% of gross earnings. (Voluntarily insured deceased for at least 1 year or who has a child or is pregnant persons contribute 11% of declared earnings. The declared by the deceased, to a dependent disabled widower, and to earnings for contribution purposes are chosen by the self- orphans younger than age 15 (age 19 if an apprentice, age 22 if employed person from between the minimum and maximum a student or disabled). earnings levels.) The pension is payable abroad. The minimum earnings for contribution and benefit purposes Survivor settlement: Payable if the deceased had less than are equal to the legal monthly minimum wage. 180 months of insurance coverage and did not satisfy the The maximum monthly earnings for contribution and benefit qualifying conditions for a disability pension. purposes are 600,000 CFA francs. (The maximum earnings for contribution and benefits purposes were last adjusted in 2003.) Old-Age Benefits Self-employed person: Not applicable. Old-age pension: The pension is equal to 20% of the Employer: 5.5% of gross payroll. insured’s average monthly covered earnings in the last 3 or The minimum earnings for contribution and benefit purposes 5 years (whichever is higher), plus 1.33% for each 12-month are equal to the legal monthly minimum wage. period of insurance coverage beyond 180 months. The The maximum monthly earnings for contribution and benefit pension is paid quarterly. purposes are 600,000 CFA francs. (The maximum earnings for The minimum pension is 60% of the legal monthly minimum contribution and benefits purposes were last adjusted in 2003.) wage. Contributions are paid monthly by employers with 20 or more The legal monthly minimum wage is 28,811 CFA francs. (The employees or quarterly by employers with 1 to 19 employees. legal monthly minimum wage was last adjusted in 1999.) Government: None; contributes as an employer for public- The maximum pension is 80% of the insured’s average monthly sector employees who are not civil servants. covered earnings in the last 3 or 5 years, whichever is higher. The legal monthly minimum wage is 28,811 CFA francs. (The Deferred pension: The pension is calculated in the same way legal monthly minimum wage was last adjusted in 1999.) as the old-age pension. Old-age settlement: A lump sum equal to 20% of the Qualifying Conditions insured’s average monthly covered earnings in the last 3 or 5 years (whichever is higher) for each 6-month period of Old-age pension: Age 56 (blue-collar workers), age 58 (white- insurance coverage. collar workers), age 60 (managers), or age 63 (doctors and teachers in private higher education), with 180 months of SSPTW: Africa, 2005 ♦ 39 Burkina Faso Benefit adjustment: Pensions are adjusted by decree for paid in full along with the part of the nonwork injury survivor changes in the average salary and the legal minimum wage, pension that exceeds this amount. depending on the financial resources of the system. (The last Survivor settlement: A lump sum equal to 1 month of the adjustment was made in 1999.) deceased’s average monthly earnings in the last 3 or 5 years (whichever is higher) before death for each 6-month period of Permanent Disability Benefits coverage. Disability pension: The pension is equal to 20% of the Benefit adjustment: Pensions are adjusted by decree for insured’s average monthly covered earnings in the last 3 or changes in the average salary and the legal minimum wage, 5 years (whichever is higher), plus 1.33% for each 12-month depending on the financial resources of the system. (The last period of insurance coverage beyond 180 months. For each adjustment was made in 1999.) year that a claim is made before the insured reaches the normal retirement age, the insured is credited with a 6-month coverage Administrative Organization period. The pension is paid quarterly. Ministry of Labor, Employment, and Youth (http:// The minimum pension is 60% of the legal monthly minimum www.emploi.gov.bf) provides technical supervision. wage. Ministry of Finance and Budget (http://www.finances.gov.bf) The legal monthly minimum wage is 28,811 CFA francs. (The provides financial supervision. legal monthly minimum wage was last adjusted in 1999.) Ministry of Trade, Economic Development, and Craftsmen The maximum pension is 80% of the insured’s average monthly provides administrative supervision. covered earnings in the last 3 or 5 years, whichever is higher. Managed by a tripartite board and a director, the National Constant-attendance allowance: Equal to 50% of the pension. Social Security Fund (http://www.cnss.bf) administers the The disability pension ceases at the normal retirement age and program. is replaced by an old-age pension of the same value, including the value of any constant-attendance allowance payable. Sickness and Maternity The insured may be required to undergo medical examination by a doctor approved or designated by the National Social Regulatory Framework Security Fund. First law: 1952. If the insured also receives a disability pension under the work injury program, the work injury disability pension is paid in full Current law: 1972 (social security), with 1981 (maternity along with the part of the nonwork injury permanent disability benefit) amendment. pension that exceeds this amount. Type of program: Social insurance system. Maternity Benefit adjustment: Pensions are adjusted by decree for benefits only. changes in the average salary and the legal minimum wage, depending on the financial resources of the system. (The last Coverage adjustment was made in 1999.) Employed women. Survivor Benefits Exclusions: Self-employed persons and temporary workers. Special system for civil servants (cash maternity benefits only). Survivor pension: The pension paid to the widow(er) is equal to 50% of the pension paid or accrued to the deceased. If there Voluntary private health insurance programs are available. is more than one widow, the pension is split equally among them. The pension is payable quarterly. Source of Funds The pension ceases on remarriage. Insured person: None. Orphan’s pension: The pension is equal to 25% of the Self-employed person: Not applicable. deceased’s pension for each orphan; 40% for each full orphan. Employer: See source of funds under Family Allowances, The value of the orphan’s pension must not be less than the below. value of family allowances. An orphan’s receiving the pension may not receive family allowances. Government: None. The total survivor pension must not exceed 100% of the deceased’s pension; otherwise, the pensions are reduced Qualifying Conditions proportionately. Cash sickness benefits: No statutory benefits are provided. If an eligible survivor also receives a survivor pension under Cash maternity benefits: At least 3 months of insured the work injury program, the work injury survivor pension is employment. 40 ♦ SSPTW: Africa, 2005 Burkina Faso Sickness and Maternity Benefits Coverage Sickness benefit: No statutory benefits are provided. Employed persons, members of cooperatives, technical Maternity benefit: The benefit is equal to 100% of the students, apprentices, and temporary workers. insured’s last gross earnings (of which the National Social Voluntary coverage for persons previously insured for at least Security Fund pays a sum equal to 100% of insurable earnings 6 consecutive months. and the employer pays the remainder). The benefit is payable Exclusions: Self-employed persons. for 14 weeks, including at least 2 weeks before the expected date of childbirth; may be extended for up to 3 additional weeks in case of complications. The benefit period after Source of Funds childbirth is payable for a stillborn child. Insured person: None. (Voluntarily insured persons The minimum earnings for benefit calculation purposes are contribute 3.5% of declared earnings. The declared earnings equal to the legal minimum wage. The legal monthly minimum for contribution purposes are chosen by the voluntarily wage is 28,811 CFA francs. (The legal monthly minimum wage insured person from between the minimum and maximum was last adjusted in 1999.) earnings levels.) The maximum monthly earnings for benefit calculation Self-employed person: Not applicable. purposes are 600,000 CFA francs. (The maximum earnings for Employer: 3.5% of gross payroll. benefit calculation purposes were last adjusted in 2003). The minimum earnings for contribution and benefit purposes Some maternity services are provided under Family are equal to the legal minimum wage. Allowances, below. The maximum monthly earnings for contribution and benefit purposes are 600,000 CFA francs. (The maximum earnings for Workers’ Medical Benefits contribution and benefit purposes were last adjusted in 2003.) Working women receive free medical care during pregnancy Contributions are paid monthly by employers with 20 or more and childbirth. employees or quarterly by employers with 1 to 19 employees. The labor code requires employers to provide certain medical Government: None; contributes as an employer for public- services. sector employees who are not civil servants. The legal monthly minimum wage is 28,811 CFA francs. (The Dependents’ Medical Benefits legal monthly minimum wage was last adjusted in 1999.) The spouse of an insured woman receives some medical benefits. Qualifying Conditions Some child health and welfare services are provided under Work injury benefits: There is no minimum qualifying period. Family Allowances, below. Accidents that occur while commuting to and from work are covered. Administrative Organization Ministry of Labor, Employment, and Youth (http:// Temporary Disability Benefits www.emploi.gov.bf) provides technical supervision. The benefit is equal to 2/3 of the insured’s average daily Ministry of Finance and Budget (http://www.finances.gov.bf) earnings in the 90 days before the month of the onset of provides financial supervision. disability. The benefit is payable from the day after the onset of disability until full recovery or the certification of permanent Ministry of Trade, Economic Development, and Craftsmen disability. provides administrative supervision. The minimum earnings for benefit purposes are equal to the Managed by a tripartite board and a director, the National legal minimum wage. The legal monthly minimum wage is Social Security Fund (http://www.cnss.bf) administers 28,811 CFA francs. (The legal monthly minimum wage was last contributions and benefits. adjusted in 1999.) The maximum monthly earnings for benefit calculation Work Injury purposes are 600,000 CFA francs. (The maximum earnings for benefit calculation purposes were last adjusted in 2003.) Regulatory Framework First law: 1932. Permanent Disability Benefits Current law: 1972 (social security). Permanent disability pension: If the insured is totally Type of program: Social insurance system. disabled, the pension is equal to 85% of the insured’s monthly SSPTW: Africa, 2005 ♦ 41 Burkina Faso average earnings in the 3 months before the onset of disability. An orphan receiving the pension may not receive family The pension is paid monthly. allowances. The pension may be paid partially as a lump sum after 5 to Dependent parent’s and grandparent’s pension: Each 7 years, subject to conditions. receives a pension equal to 10% of the deceased’s monthly The minimum earnings for benefit calculation purposes are average earnings in the 3 months before the onset of disability. equal to the legal minimum wage. The legal monthly minimum The minimum earnings for benefit calculation purposes are wage is 28,811 CFA francs. (The legal monthly minimum wage equal to the legal minimum wage. The legal monthly minimum was last adjusted in 1999.) wage is 28,811 CFA francs. (The legal monthly minimum wage The maximum monthly earnings for benefit calculation was last adjusted in 1999.) purposes are 600,000 CFA francs. (The maximum earnings for The maximum monthly earnings for benefit calculation benefit calculator purposes were last adjusted in 2003.) purposes are 600,000 CFA francs. (The maximum earnings for Constant-attendance supplement: Equal to 50% of the benefit calculator purposes were last adjusted in 2003.) pension. The total survivor pension must not exceed 85% of the Partial disability: If the assessed degree of disability is at least deceased’s full permanent disability pension; otherwise, the 15%, a percentage of the full pension is paid according to the pensions are reduced proportionately. assessed degree of disability. The pension is paid quarterly; If an eligible survivor also receives survivor benefits under the monthly if the assessed degree of disability is 75% or more. old-age, disability, and survivors program, the work injury If the assessed degree of disability is less than 15%, a lump survivor pension is paid in full along with the part of the sum of 3 years’ pension is paid according to the assessed nonwork injury survivor pension that exceeds this amount. degree of disability. Funeral grant: A lump sum equal to 1/2 of the maximum The insured may be required to undergo medical examination monthly earnings for contribution purposes (600,000 CFA by a doctor approved or designated by the National Social francs in 2005). Security Fund. Benefit adjustment: Pensions are adjusted by decree for If the insured also receives a disability pension under the old- changes in the average salary and the legal minimum wage, age, disability, and survivors program, the work injury depending on the financial resources of the system. (The last permanent disability pension is paid in full along with the part adjustment was made in 1999.) of the nonwork injury disability pension that exceeds this amount. Administrative Organization Benefit adjustment: Pensions are adjusted by decree for Ministry of Labor, Employment, and Youth (http:// changes in the average salary and the legal minimum wage, www.emploi.gov.bf) provides technical supervision. depending on the financial resources of the system. (The last adjustment was made in 1999.) Ministry of Finance and Budget (http://www.finances.gov.bf) provides financial supervision. Workers’ Medical Benefits Ministry of Trade, Economic Development, and Craftsmenprovides administrative supervision. Benefits include medical, surgical, and dental care; Managed by a tripartite board and a director, the National hospitalization; medicines; X-rays; laboratory services; Social Security Fund (http://www.cnss.bf) administers rehabilitation; retraining; appliances; and transportation. contributions and benefits. Survivor Benefits Family Allowances Survivor pension: The pension is equal to 30% of the deceased’s monthly average earnings in the 3 months before Regulatory Framework the onset of disability. First law: 1955. Eligible survivors are a widow who was married to the deceased for at least 1 year (or who has a child or is pregnant Current law: 1972 (social security), implemented in 1973. by the deceased) or a dependent disabled widower. If there is Type of program: Employment-related system. more than one widow, the pension is split equally among them. Orphan’s pension: Each receives a pension equal to 10% of Coverage the deceased’s monthly average earnings in the 3 months Employed persons and social insurance beneficiaries with one before the onset of disability for each orphan younger than or more children. age 15 (age 19 if an apprentice, age 22 if a student or disabled); 30% for each full orphan. Exclusions: Self-employed persons. Special system for civil servants. 42 ♦ SSPTW: Africa, 2005 Burkina Faso Source of Funds Administrative Organization Insured person: None. Ministry of Labor, Employment, and Youth (http:// Self-employed person: Not applicable. www.emploi.gov.bf) provides technical supervision. Employer: 7% of gross payroll. Ministry of Finance and Budget (http://www.finances.gov.bf) provides financial supervision. The employer contributions also finance maternity benefits, above. Ministry of Trade, Economic Development, and Craftsmen provides administrative supervision. The minimum earnings for contribution and benefit purposes are equal to the legal monthly minimum wage. The legal Managed by a tripartite board and a director, the National monthly minimum wage is 28,811 CFA francs. (The legal Social Security Fund (http://www.cnss.bf) administers the monthly minimum wage was last adjusted in 1999.) program. The maximum monthly earnings for contribution and benefit purposes are 600,000 CFA francs. (The maximum earnings for contribution and benefit purposes were last adjusted in 2003.) Contributions are paid monthly by employers with 20 or more employees or quarterly by employers with 1 to 19 employees. Government: Any deficit; contributes as an employer for public-sector employees who are not civil servants. Qualifying Conditions Family allowances: The child must be younger than age 15 (age 19 if an apprentice, age 22 if a student or disabled). The parent (or guardian) must have 3 months of covered employment and be currently working 18 days or 120 hours a month. The allowance is payable to a pensioner or to an unemployed person for a maximum of 6 months. The child must not receive an orphan’s pension. If both parents qualify for family allowances, the benefit is paid on behalf of the husband only. If one of the parents receives family allowances from the special system for civil servants, only the higher benefit award is paid. The mother and child must undergo prescribed medical examinations. Prenatal allowance: The mother must undergo prescribed medical examinations. Family Allowance Benefits Family allowances: 1,000 CFA francs a month for each of the first six children. Prenatal allowance: 500 CFA francs a month for 9 months. The allowance is paid in three installments. Some maternity and child health and welfare services are also provided. Benefit adjustment: The benefits are adjusted depending on the financial resources of the system. (Family allowances were last adjusted in 1992, and prenatal allowances were last adjusted in 1993.) SSPTW: Africa, 2005 ♦ 43 Burundi Eligible survivors are the widow(er); unmarried orphans Burundi younger than age 16 (age 18 if an apprentice, age 21 if astudent, no limit if disabled); and parents in the absence of a Exchange rate: US$1.00 equals 1,085.70 francs. surviving spouse and children. Survivor settlement: The deceased did not meet the qualifying conditions for a pension. Old Age, Disability, and Survivors Old-Age Benefits Regulatory Framework Old-age pension: The pension is equal to 30% of the First law: 1956. insured’s average monthly earnings during the last 3 or 5 years Current law: 2002. (whichever is higher), plus 2% for every 12-month period of Type of program: Social insurance system. insurance coverage beyond 180 months. The minimum pension is 60% of the highest legal minimum Coverage wage. The highest legal minimum monthly wage is equal to4,000 francs (2004). Salaried workers covered by the labor code, military personnel, The legal minimum wage is adjusted by ministerial ordinance. and civil service and public utility contract workers. (The last adjustment was made in 1988.) Voluntary coverage for persons previously insured for at least The maximum pension is 80% of average monthly earnings. 6 consecutive months. The insured can receive the old-age pension and one or more Special system for civil servants. survivor pensions at the same time. If the insured is entitled to the old-age pension and the work injury permanent disability Source of Funds benefit, the full amount of the higher pension and half the amount of the other pension is paid. The combined receipt of Insured person: 2.6% of gross monthly earnings (excluding the old-age pension before age 60 if prematurely aged and the family allowances and reimbursements paid by the employer); disability pension is not allowed. 3.8% if working under arduous conditions. Voluntary insured persons contribute 6.5% of monthly income. Benefit adjustment: Pensions are adjusted for changes in the cost of living, depending on the financial resources of the The maximum monthly earnings for contribution and benefit system. (Benefits were last adjusted in 2003). purposes are 150,000 francs. Old-age settlement: A lump sum equal to average monthly Self-employed person: Voluntary coverage, subject to earnings during the last 3 or 5 years (whichever is higher) times conditions. the number of 12-month periods of contributions. Employer: 3.9% of gross monthly payroll; 5.7% of gross monthly payroll for arduous work. Permanent Disability Benefits The maximum monthly earnings for contribution purposes are 150,000 francs. Disability pension: The pension is equal to 30% of the insured’s average monthly earnings during the last 3 or 5 years Government: None; contributes as an employer. (whichever is higher), plus 2% for every 12-month period of insurance coverage beyond 180 months. A 6-month Qualifying Conditions contribution period is credited for each year that the insured is younger than the pensionable age at the time of the claim. The Old-age pension: Age 60 (age 55 if prematurely aged or disability pension is normally awarded temporarily. age 45 if working under arduous conditions) with 15 years of insurance. Retirement is not necessary. The minimum pension is 60% of the highest legal minimum wage. The highest legal monthly minimum wage is equal to Old-age settlement: Paid to an insured person aged 60 or 4,000 francs (2004). older who does not meet the qualifying conditions for an old- age pension. The legal minimum wage is adjusted by ministerial ordinance. (The last adjustment was made in 1988.) Disability pension: Payable for a 66% or more loss of physical or mental capacity with 3 years of insurance coverage, The maximum pension is 80% of average monthly earnings. including 6 months of contributions during the last 12 months. The insured can receive the disability pension and one or more Survivor pension: The insured qualified for a pension, was a survivor pensions at the same time. If the insured is entitled to pensioner, or had at least 180 months of coverage at the time of the disability pension and the work injury permanent disability death. pension, only the highest pension is paid. The combined receipt of the disability pension and the old-age pension before age 60 if prematurely aged is not allowed. 44 ♦ SSPTW: Africa, 2005 Burundi Benefit adjustment: Pensions are adjusted for changes in the Work Injury cost of living if the award is permanent or the insured is aged 60 or older, depending on the financial resources of the Regulatory Framework system. First law: 1949. Survivor Benefits Current law: 2002 (pensions and work injury). Survivor pension: 50% of the deceased’s pension is paid to Type of program: Social insurance system. the widow(er). The pension ceases on remarriage. Coverage Orphan’s pension: 25% of the deceased’s pension is paid for Salaried workers covered by the labor code, including each eligible orphan; 40% for each full orphan. agricultural workers, military personnel, police personnel, apprentices, and trainees. Dependent parent’s and grandparent’s pension (in the absence of other eligible survivors): 25% of the deceased’s Exclusions: The self-employed. pension each. The total survivor pension must not exceed 100% of the Source of Funds deceased’s pension. Insured person: None. The survivor can receive a survivor pension and an old-age Self-employed person: Not applicable. pension or disability pension at the same time. Employer: 3% of gross monthly payroll. Benefit adjustment: Pensions are adjusted for changes in the cost of living, depending on the financial resources of the The maximum monthly earnings for contribution and benefit system. (The last adjustment was made in 2003.) purposes are 80,000 francs. Survivor settlement: A lump sum calculated as a percentage Government: None; contributes as an employer. of the old-age pension the deceased would have received at the pensionable age. Qualifying Conditions Work injury benefits: There is no minimum qualifying period. Administrative Organization Accidents that occur while commuting to and from work are Ministry of Labor and Social Security provides general covered. supervision. Managed by a tripartite board and director, the National Social Temporary Disability Benefits Security Institute administers the program. The benefit is 2/3 of the insured’s average daily earnings up to a ceiling. The benefit is payable from the 31st day after the Sickness and Maternity onset of disability (from the second day for a commuting accident or if the costs of the accident are met by the Regulatory Framework employer) for the total period of incapacity for work, up to a maximum of 6 months from the date of the accident. The The labor code (1993) requires employers to pay 2/3 of wages insured’s salary is suspended while receiving benefits. for sick leave for up to 3 months each calendar year and to provide medical care for workers and their dependents. The average daily earnings are based on earnings during thelast 3 calendar months before the month in which the accident The labor code (1993) requires employers to pay 50% of wages occurred. for maternity leave of up to 12 weeks (14 weeks in case of complications), including at least 6 weeks after childbirth, if the The minimum benefit is the regional minimum wage (between woman has 6 months of service during the year before the 105 francs and 160 francs a day in 2004). expected date of childbirth. The minimum wage is adjusted by ministerial ordinance. (The The 1984 provision established a medical assistance program last adjustment was made in 1988.) to provide medical, surgical, maternity, hospitalization, dental, and pharmaceutical services to the low-income population. Permanent Disability Benefits The 1980 law (health insurance) provides for medical benefits Permanent disability pension: If totally disabled, 100% of for civil servants and members of the armed forces. the insured’s average monthly earnings up to a ceiling. After the pension has been received for 5 years, it can be converted into a lump sum under certain conditions. SSPTW: Africa, 2005 ♦ 45 Burundi The average earnings are based on earnings during the Administrative Organization 3 calendar months before the month in which the accident occurred. Ministry of Labor and Social Security provides general supervision. Partial disability: If the assessed degree of disability is 15% or more, the benefit equals a percentage of the full pension National Social Security Institute administers contributions according to the assessed degree of disability. If the assessed and benefits. degree of disability is less than 15%, a lump sum equal to Medical services are provided by the National Social Security 3 years’ pension according to the assessed degree of disability. Institute and public or approved private medical institutions. Constant-attendance supplement: Equal to 50% of the pension. Family Allowances If the insured is entitled to receive the old-age pension and the work injury permanent disability benefit, the full amount of the Regulatory Framework higher pension and half the amount of the other pension is First law: 1971. paid. If the insured is entitled to both the nonwork injury disability pension and the work injury permanent disability Current law: 1977 (family benefits). pension, only the highest pension is paid. Type of program: Employment-related system. Benefit adjustment: Pensions are adjusted for changes in the cost of living, depending on the financial resources of the Coverage system. (The last adjustment was made in 2003.) Salaried workers and apprentices. Workers’ Medical Benefits Exclusions: The self-employed. Special system for civil servants. Benefits include medical and surgical care, hospitalization, laboratory services, medicines, dental care, transportation, physiotherapy, eyeglasses, and rehabilitation. Source of Funds Insured person: None. Survivor Benefits Self-employed person: Not applicable. Survivor pension: 50% of the insured’s earnings is payable Employer: Total cost. to a widow(er). Government: None. The pension ceases on remarriage. Remarriage settlement: A lump sum of 6 months’ pension is Qualifying Conditions paid to the widow(er). Family allowances: The child must be unmarried and Orphan’s pension: 20% of the deceased’s earnings for each younger than age 16 (age 21 if a student or an apprentice, no orphan younger than age 16 (age 21 if a student, no limit if limit if disabled). The wife must not be in paid employment. disabled); 40% for each full orphan. For the full benefit, the insured must work at least 4 hours a Dependent parent’s and grandparent’s pension (in the day. absence of other eligible survivors): 20% of the deceased’s earnings each. Family Allowance Benefits The total survivor pension must not exceed 100% of the pension the deceased would have received if totally disabled. Family allowances: Specified monthly payments for the wifeand for each child. The benefit is reduced by 50% if the Funeral grant: A lump sum equal to 30 times the deceased’s insured works less than 4 hours a day. average daily earnings up to a ceiling. The average earnings are based on the earnings the deceased received during the last 3 calendar months before the month in which the accident Administrative Organization occurred. Ministry of Labor and Social Security provides general The minimum grant is 30,000 francs. supervision. Benefit adjustment: Pensions are adjusted for changes in the Employers pay the benefits directly to employees. cost of living, depending on the financial resources of the system. (The last adjustment was made in 2003.) 46 ♦ SSPTW: Africa, 2005 Cameroon Eligible survivors are a widow(er) of any age, children younger Cameroon than age 14 (age 18 if an apprentice, age 21 if a student or disabled), and dependent parents. Exchange rate: US$1.00 equals 493.54 CFA francs. Survivor grant: The deceased met the requirements for the old-age grant. Old Age, Disability, and Survivors Old-Age Benefits Regulatory Framework Old-age pension: The pension is equal to 30% of average monthly earnings in the last 3 or 5 years (whichever is higher), First and current law: 1969 (pensions), implemented in 1974, plus 1% for each 12-month period of contributions beyond with 1984 and 1990 amendments. 180 months. Type of program: Social insurance system. The minimum pension is 50% of the legal minimum wage. The maximum pension is 80% of the insured’s average monthly Coverage earnings. Employed persons. Constant-attendance supplement: Equal to 40% of the old-age Exclusions: The self-employed. pension. Voluntary coverage for previously covered workers (not yet Old-age grant: A lump sum equal to the insured’s average implemented). monthly earnings times the number of 12-month periods of coverage. Special system for civil servants. Permanent Disability Benefits Source of Funds Disability pension: The pension is equal to 30% of average Insured person: 2.8% of gross earnings. monthly earnings in the last 3 or 5 years (whichever is higher), The maximum monthly earnings for contribution and benefit plus 1% for each 12-month period of contributions beyond purposes are 300,000 CFA francs. 180 months. For each year that a claim is made before the Self-employed person: Not applicable. insured reaches age 60, the insured is credited with a 6-month insurance period. Employer: 4.2% of gross payroll. Constant-attendance supplement: Equal to 40% of the The maximum monthly earnings for contribution purposes are insured’s disability pension. 300,000 CFA francs. Government: None. Survivor Benefits Qualifying Conditions Survivor pension: 50% of the deceased’s old-age pension ispayable to the widow(er). If there is more than one widow, the Old-age pension: Age 60 with 20 years of insurance coverage pension is split equally among them. and 180 months of contributions, including 60 months in the The pension ceases on remarriage. last 10 years. Retirement from employment is necessary. Orphan’s pension: 15% of the deceased’s old-age pension is The pension is payable abroad only if there is a reciprocal payable to each orphan; 25% for each full orphan. agreement. Dependent parent’s pension: 10% of the deceased’s old-age Early pension: Age 50 with 20 years of insurance coverage and pension each. 180 months of contributions, including 60 months in the last 10 years. Other eligible survivors (in the absence of the above): The pension is split equally among other relatives. Old-age grant: Age 60 (age 50 for early retirement) and ineligible for the old-age pension, with at least 12 months of The total survivor pension must not exceed 100% of the contributions. deceased’s old-age pension. Disability pension: A loss of 2/3 of earning capacity with Survivor grant: A lump sum equal to 1 month’s pension 5 years of insurance coverage, including at least 6 months of (based on 180 months of contributions) for each 6-month contributions in the last year. No contributions are required if period of contributions. the disability is the result of a nonwork-related accident. Survivor pension: The deceased was a pensioner or met the Administrative Organization pension requirements at the time of death or had at least Ministry of Employment, Labor, and Social Security provides 180 months of insurance coverage. general supervision. SSPTW: Africa, 2005 ♦ 47 Cameroon Managed by a tripartite council and director general, the Dependents’ Medical Benefits National Social Insurance Fund (http://www.cnps.com) administers the program. No statutory benefits are provided. Some child health care and welfare services are provided to Sickness and Maternity mothers and children under Family Allowances, below. Regulatory Framework Administrative Organization First law: 1956. Ministry of Employment, Labor, and Social Security provides general supervision. Current law: 1967, with 1995 amendment. National Social Insurance Fund (http://www.cnps.com) Type of program: Social insurance system. Maternity administers the program. benefits only. Coverage Work Injury Employed women. Regulatory Framework Exclusions: Self-employed women. First law: 1944. Current law: 1977 (work injury). Source of Funds Type of program: Social insurance system. Insured person: None. Self-employed person: Not applicable. Coverage Employer: See source of funds under Family Allowances, Employed persons, apprentices, seamen, technical students, below. and persons in training. Government: None. Exclusions: Civil servants. Voluntary coverage for the self-employed (not yet Qualifying Conditions implemented). Cash sickness benefits: No statutory benefits are provided. (The labor code requires employers to provide some paid sick Source of Funds leave.) Insured person: None. Cash maternity benefits: Six months of consecutive employment and insured at the date of childbirth. Self-employed person: Not applicable. Employer: 1.75%, 2.5%, or 5% of gross payroll, according to Sickness and Maternity Benefits the assessed degree of risk. Government: None. Sickness benefit: No statutory benefits are provided. (The labor code requires employers to provide some paid sick leave.) Qualifying Conditions Maternity benefit: 100% of the last monthly earnings. The Work injury benefits: There is no minimum qualifying period. benefit is payable 4 weeks before and 10 weeks after the expected date of childbirth; up to 16 weeks after childbirth in Temporary Disability Benefits case of complications). The benefit is equal to 2/3 of monthly earnings during the Workers’ Medical Benefits 3 months before the onset of disability. The benefit is payablefrom the day after the onset of disability until full recovery or Insured women and the spouses of insured men receive certification of permanent disability. 1,400 CFA francs toward expenses in connection with The maximum daily earnings for benefit purposes are childbirth and 200 CFA francs for each prenatal examination 17,933 CFA francs. and for pediatric care examinations for up to 6 months. Some free medical care is provided by government health Permanent Disability Benefits facilities. The labor code requires employers to provide certain medical Permanent disability pension: If totally disabled, the services. pension is equal to 85% of average earnings during the3 months before the onset of disability. 48 ♦ SSPTW: Africa, 2005 Cameroon The minimum monthly earnings for benefit purposes are equal Source of Funds to the legal minimum wage (23,514 CFA francs). Insured person: None. The maximum monthly earnings for benefit purposes are 537,994 CFA francs. Self-employed person: Not applicable. Constant-attendance supplement: The annual benefit varies Employer: 7% of gross payroll; 5.65% (agriculture) and 3.7% according to the value of the insured’s salary and the sector of (private schools). activity in which the inured is employed. The maximum monthly earnings for contribution purposes are Partial disability: If the degree of disability is at least 20%, the 300,000 CFA francs. pension is a percentage of the full pension according to the The above contributions also finance maternity benefits under assessed degree of disability; if the assessed degree of Sickness and Maternity, above. disability is less than 20%, a lump sum equal to 10 years’ partial Government: None. disability pension is paid. Qualifying Conditions Workers’ Medical Benefits Family allowances: The child must be younger than age 14 Benefits include medical and surgical care, hospitalization, (age 18 if an apprentice, age 21 if a full-time student or medicines, appliances, X-rays, laboratory services, and disabled). The parent must be working 18 days or 120 hours a rehabilitation. month. Benefits continue to be paid during periods of work-related Survivor Benefits disability, for a 6-month period of sick leave, for a 14-week Survivor pension: The pension is equal to 85% of the period of maternity leave, for a 3-month period if involuntarily deceased’s average earnings in the last 3 months. unemployed, and during statutory vacation periods. The pension is split among the eligible survivors according to Allowances are also payable to old-age pensioners who retire the schedule in law. Eligible survivors are a surviving spouse, with dependent children and to eligible survivors with children younger than age 14 (age 18 if an apprentice, age 21 if dependent children. a full-time student or disabled), and dependent parents. Prenatal allowance: Must undergo prescribed medical Funeral grant: The cost of the burial. examinations. Birth grant: Must undergo prescribed medical examinations. Administrative Organization Ministry of Employment, Labor, and Social Security provides Family Allowance Benefits general supervision. Family allowances: 1,800 CFA francs a month for each child. National Social Insurance Fund (http://www.cnps.com) The allowance is paid every 3 months. administers the program. Prenatal allowance: 1,800 CFA francs a month for 9 months. The allowance is paid in two installments. Family Allowances Birth grant: 21,600 CFA francs for each birth. Some child health care and welfare services are also provided Regulatory Framework to mothers and children. First law: 1956. Current law: 1967, with 1995 amendment. Administrative Organization Type of program: Employment-related system. Ministry of Employment, Labor, and Social Security provides general supervision. Coverage National Social Insurance Fund (http://www.cnps.com) administers the program. Employed persons. Exclusions: The self-employed. Special system for apprentices with families. SSPTW: Africa, 2005 ♦ 49 Cape Verde The annual average earnings for benefit calculation purposes Cape Verde are based on the 120 best-paid months in the 15 years ofcontributions. Exchange rate: US$1.00 equals 83.94 escudos. The minimum monthly pension is 4,620 escudos. (The minimum monthly pension was last adjusted in 2005.) The maximum monthly pension is 80% of the insured’s average Old Age, Disability, and Survivors earnings. Regulatory Framework Benefit adjustment: Pensions are adjusted by decreeperiodically. (The pensions were last adjusted in 2005.) First law: 1957. Current laws: 2003 (self-employed persons) and 2004 Permanent Disability Benefits (employed persons). Disability pension: The monthly pension is equal to 2% of Type of program: Social insurance system. annual average earnings, plus an annual coefficient adjusted for changes in the cost of living for each 12-month period of Coverage insurance coverage. Employed persons in the private and public sectors. The annual average earnings for benefit calculation purposes are based on the 120 best-paid months in the 15 years of Special systems for government employees, central bank contributions. employees, and the self-employed. The minimum monthly pension is 4,620 escudos. (The minimum monthly pension was last adjusted in 2005.) Source of Funds The maximum monthly pension is 80% of the insured’s average Insured person: 3% of gross monthly earnings. earnings. Self-employed person: Not applicable (covered by a special Benefit adjustment: Pensions are adjusted by decree system). periodically. (The pensions were last adjusted in 2005.) Employer: 7% of gross monthly payroll. Government: None; contributes as an employer. Survivor Benefits Survivor pension: The monthly pension is equal to 50% of Qualifying Conditions the deceased’s pension. Old-age pension: Age 65 (men) or age 60 (women) with The pension ceases on remarriage. 15 years of contributions. Orphan’s pension: The monthly pension is equal to 25% of The pension is payable abroad. the deceased’s pension for each orphan; 50% for each full orphan. Disability pension: Assessed as 2/3 disabled or disabled with a loss of 1/3 of earning capacity, with 5 years of contributions. The maximum monthly survivor pension is equal to 100% of the deceased’s pension. The pension is payable abroad. Benefit adjustment: Pensions are adjusted by decree Survivor pension: The insured was a pensioner or had periodically. (The pensions were last adjusted in 2005.) 36 months of contributions. The pension is payable abroad. Administrative Organization Eligible survivors include a widow older than age 50 or disabled, a widower older than age 55 or disabled, and Ministry of Labor and Solidarity provides general supervision. physically or mentally disabled children. National Social Insurance Institute administers the program. A temporary survivor pension is payable for up to 5 years to a widow younger than age 50, to a widower younger than age 55, Sickness and Maternity and to children aged 15 to 25 who are students. Regulatory Framework Old-Age Benefits First law: 1976. Old-age pension: The monthly pension is equal to 2% of Current laws: 2003 (self-employed persons) and 2004 annual average earnings, plus an annual coefficient adjusted (employed persons). for changes in the cost of living for each 12-month period of insurance coverage. Type of program: Social insurance system. Cash and medicalbenefits. 50 ♦ SSPTW: Africa, 2005 Cape Verde Coverage Dependents’ Medical Benefits Employed persons in the private and public sectors. Benefits include general and specialist care, surgery, The self-employed, pensioners, and recipients of social hospitalization, laboratory services, doctor’s consultations at insurance benefits are covered for medical benefits. home, medicines, prostheses, and dental care. Special systems provide cash benefits for government Eligible dependents are children up to age 18 or receiving employees and the self-employed. family benefits, dependent parents, and dependent grandparents. Source of Funds Cost sharing: The insured’s dependents pay 15%, 25%, 45%, or 50% of the cost of medicines, according to the schedule in Insured person: 4% of gross monthly earnings. law; the dependents of a pensioner pay 5%, 15%, 40%, or 45%. Self-employed person: Not applicable (covered by a special Medicines are free for low-income pensioners’ dependents. system). The insured’s dependents pay 30% to 50% of the cost of dental care; 15% for low-income pensioners’ dependents. The Employer: 4% of gross monthly payroll. insured’s dependents pay 20%, 25%, 30%, or 40% of the cost Government: None; contributes as an employer. of prostheses and appliances; 15% for low-income pensioners’ dependents. Qualifying Conditions A daily lump sum of 1,000 escudos (1,500 escudos for low- Six months of income pensioners’ dependents) is paid for transportationCash sickness and maternity benefits: contributions. costs and living expenses; 1,500 escudos (3,000 escudos forlow-income pensioners’ dependents) when receiving care abroad. A daily lump sum is also payable for an authorized Sickness and Maternity Benefits accompanying person. Sickness benefit: The benefit is equal to 60% of the Low-income pensioners are pensioners with earnings less than insured’s last monthly earnings or average earnings during the 2.5 times the legal minimum wage. The monthly legal minimum last 6 months, whichever is higher. The benefit is payable for wage is 12,269 escudos. up to 1,095 days. The employer pays 100% of earnings for the first 3 days; thereafter, 40% up to the 90th day. Administrative Organization Maternity benefit: The benefit is equal to 90% of the insured’s last monthly earnings or average earnings in the last Ministry of Health provides general supervision. 6 months, whichever is higher. The benefit is payable for National Health Service administers the program. 45 days. (A nursing allowance is payable under Family Allowances, below.) Work Injury Workers’ Medical Benefits Regulatory Framework Benefits include general and specialist care, surgery, First law: 1960. hospitalization, laboratory services, doctor’s consultations at Current laws: 1978 (compulsory insurance) and 1991 (private home, medicines, prostheses, and dental care. administration). Cost sharing: The insured pays 15%, 25%, 45%, or 50% of the Type of program: Social insurance system. cost of medicines, according to the schedule in law; pensioners pay 5%, 15%, 40%, or 45%. Medicines are free for low-income pensioners. The insured pays 30% to 50% of the Coverage cost of dental care; 15% for low-income pensioners. The Employed persons; tenant farmers and sharecroppers; insured pays 20%, 25%, 30%, or 40% of the cost of prostheses members of cooperative enterprises; apprentices and trainees; and appliances; 15% for low-income pensioners. certain categories of volunteer workers; and certain categories A daily benefit of 1,000 escudos (1,500 escudos for low-income of self-employed persons, including family members employed pensioners) is paid for transportation costs and living by them. expenses; 1,500 escudos (3,000 escudos for low-income Exclusions: Company managers, owners, and shareholders. pensioners) when receiving care abroad. A daily benefit is also payable for an authorized accompanying person. Special system for government employees. Low-income pensioners are pensioners with earnings less than 2.5 times the legal minimum wage. The monthly legal minimum wage is 12,269 escudos. SSPTW: Africa, 2005 ♦ 51 Cape Verde Source of Funds The pension is payable from the day following the onset of disability (the employer pays the insured’s earnings for the day Insured person: None. of the work injury). Self-employed person: 6% of gross monthly earnings. Benefit adjustment: Pensions are adjusted for changes in the The maximum daily earnings for contribution purposes are cost of living, depending on the financial resources of the 300 escudos. system. Employer: 2% of gross monthly payroll for employees or 6% of gross monthly payroll for all other workers; for domestic Workers’ Medical Benefits servants, 50 escudos a month (full time) or 30 escudos a month (part time). Benefits include medical treatment, surgery, hospitalization, prostheses, appliances, and transportation. The maximum daily earnings for contribution purposes are 300 escudos. Survivor Benefits Government: None. Survivor pension: The monthly pension is equal to 30% of Qualifying Conditions the deceased’s earnings on the day the injury occurred (ifthose earnings differ from normal earnings, 30% of the Work injury benefits: There is no qualifying period. deceased’s average earnings in the last 6 months). Accidents that occur while commuting to and from work are Eligible survivors include a dependent widow, a dependent covered. widower older than age 64 or disabled, and a divorced spouse receiving alimony. (The pension is split equally if there is more Temporary Disability Benefits than one eligible divorced spouse.) If totally disabled, the benefit is equal to 40% of the insured’s The maximum daily earnings for benefit calculation purposes earnings on the day the injury occurred (if those earnings are 300 escudos. differ from the insured’s normal earnings, 40% of average The pension ceases on remarriage or if the widow(er) cohabits earnings in the last 6 months) for the first 14 days; thereafter, with a partner. 70%. For hospitalization, the benefit is 40% of the insured’s Remarriage allowance: A lump sum equal to a year’s pension. earnings; 70% with dependents. Orphan’s pension: The monthly pension is equal to 15% of The maximum daily earnings for benefit purposes are the deceased’s earnings for each child (including unborn, 300 escudos. adopted, natural, and any other dependent children) up to Partial disability: The benefit is equal to 25% of the insured’s age 18 (age 24 if a student, no limit if disabled); 45% of the earnings on the day the injury occurred (if those earnings deceased’s earnings for each full orphan. differ from the insured’s normal earnings, 40% of the average Other eligible survivors: A monthly pension equal to 10% of earnings in the last 6 months). the deceased’s earnings is payable to dependent parents and grandparents and to dependent brothers and sisters up to Permanent Disability Benefits age 16. Permanent disability pension: If totally disabled, the The total monthly survivor pension for other dependent monthly pension is equal to 70% of the insured’s earnings on relatives is 30% of the deceased’s earnings. the day the injury occurred (if those earnings differ from the The total monthly survivor pension must not exceed 70% of insured’s normal earnings, 70% of average earnings in the last the deceased’s earnings. 6 months). Funeral grant: The cost of the funeral, up to a maximum of The maximum daily earnings for benefit calculation purposes 7,500 escudos. are 300 escudos. Benefit adjustment: Pensions are adjusted for changes in the Constant-attendance supplement: Up to 30% of the insured’s cost of living, depending on the financial resources of the earnings. system. Partial disability: If the assessed degree of disability is between 10% and 99%, the monthly pension equals a Administrative Organization percentage of the full disability pension according to the assessed degree of disability. Ministry of Labor and Solidarity provides general supervision. The degree of disability is assessed according to the schedule Private insurance companies administer the program. in law. The insured may be required to undergo medical examinations every 6 months during the first 2 years; thereafter, every year. 52 ♦ SSPTW: Africa, 2005 Cape Verde Family Allowances Regulatory Framework First law: 1957. Current law: 2004 (employed persons). Type of program: Social insurance system. Coverage Persons in insured employment or receiving social insurance benefits. Special system for government employees. Source of Funds Insured person: None. Self-employed person: Not applicable. Employer: 3% of gross monthly payroll. Government: None. Qualifying Conditions Family allowances: Children must be younger than age 14 (age 24 if a student, no limit if disabled). The allowance is also paid for the insured’s parents if each parent’s income is less than 2,000 escudos. Family Allowance Benefits Family allowances: A monthly allowance of 400 escudos is payable for each eligible dependent; 1,200 escudos a month for each disabled child younger than age 8; 1,600 escudos a month for each disabled child aged 8 to 13; and 2,050 escudos a month for each disabled child older than age 13. The allowance is payable for a maximum of four children; the limit on the number of children is waived if the parent is a pensioner or the insured is deceased and the mother is an unemployed widow. Nursing allowance: 1,200 escudos a month for 6 months. Funeral grant: The cost of the funeral, up to a maximum of 20,000 escudos for the insured or his or her spouse or children older than age 14; 15,000 escudos for children aged 6 to 14; and 7,500 escudos for children younger than age 6. Benefit adjustment: Benefits are adjusted periodically. (The benefits were last adjusted in 2005.) Administrative Organization Ministry of Labor and Solidarity provides general supervision. National Social Insurance Institute administers the program. SSPTW: Africa, 2005 ♦ 53 Central African Republic Survivor pension: The deceased met the requirements for a Central African Republic pension or was a pensioner at the time of death. Exchange rate: US$1.00 equals Survivor settlement: Paid to the survivor if the deceased did 493.54 CFA francs. not meet the requirements for a pension. Eligible survivors are a widow aged 50 or older (aged 45 if prematurely aged) or aged 30 or older if caring for a child or Old Age, Disability, and Survivors disabled, a dependent widower aged 55 (aged 50 if prematurely aged), and dependent children. Regulatory Framework The spouse must have been married to the insured for at least First law: 1963. 2 years before the insured’s death. Current law: 1981. Type of program: Social insurance system. Old-Age Benefits Old-age pension: The pension is equal to 30% of the Coverage insured’s average monthly earnings in the last 3 or 5 years (whichever is higher) plus 1% for each 12-month period of Employed persons, including civil servants and other contributions beyond 240 months. government contract workers, members of public or local authorities, students in professional schools, trainees, and The minimum pension is 60% of the highest regional minimum apprentices. wage. Exclusions: Agricultural workers and temporary or occasional The maximum pension is equal to 80% of the insured’s average workers. monthly earnings. Voluntary coverage for the self-employed. Pensions are paid quarterly. Old-age allowance: A lump sum equal to 1 month’s average Source of Funds earnings for each 12-month period of insurance coverage. Insured person: 2% of gross earnings. Permanent Disability Benefits Self-employed person: Voluntary coverage only. Disability pension: The pension is equal to 30% of average Employer: 3% of gross payroll. monthly earnings in the last 3 or 5 years (whichever is higher) Contributions are paid monthly by employers with 20 or more plus 1% for each 12-month period of contributions beyond employees and quarterly by employers with less than 240 months. The insured is credited with 6 months of coverage 20 employees. for each year that a claim is made before age 55. Government: None. The disability pension is replaced by an old-age pension of the same amount at the normal retirement age. Qualifying Conditions Constant-attendance supplement: Equal to 50% of the pension. Old-age pension: Age 55 (men) or age 50 (women) and registered with the fund for at least 20 years with 60 months of Benefits are paid quarterly. contributions in the last 10 years. The pension is payable 5 years before the normal retirement age if the insured is Survivor Benefits prematurely aged. Retirement from gainful employment is necessary. Survivor pension: 50% of the deceased’s pension is paid to the spouse. If there is more than one widow, the amount is The pension is payable abroad only if there is a reciprocal split equally. agreement. The pension ceases on remarriage. Old-age allowance: Age 55 (age 50 if prematurely aged) with at least 12 months of coverage but ineligible for the old-age Orphan’s pension: A total amount equal to 50% of the pension. deceased’s pension is payable for all eligible orphans; 100% in the case of full orphans. Disability pension: A loss of 2/3 of earning capacity and registered with the fund for at least 5 years with 6 months of The total survivor pension must not exceed 100% of the contributions in the year before the onset of disability deceased’s pension. (conditions are waived for currently employed persons if the Pensions are paid quarterly. disability is a result of a nonoccupational accident). The Survivor settlement: A lump sum equal to 1 month’s old-age pension is payable after 6 consecutive months of disability pension is paid for each 6 months of coverage. provided that the disability is expected to last for at least another 6 months. 54 ♦ SSPTW: Africa, 2005 Central African Republic Administrative Organization Administrative Organization Ministry of Public Administration, Labor, Social Security, and Ministry of Public Administration, Labor, Social Security, and Professional Training provides general supervision. Professional Training provides general supervision. Central African Social Security Office administers the program. Central African Social Security Office administers the program. Sickness and Maternity Work Injury Regulatory Framework Regulatory Framework First law: 1952. First laws: 1935 and 1959. Current law: 1965. Current law: 1965. Type of program: Social insurance system. Maternity Type of program: Social insurance system. benefits only. Coverage Coverage Employed persons and members of producers’ cooperatives. Employed women. Exclusions: Agricultural workers, temporary or occasional workers, and the self-employed. Source of Funds Insured person: None. Source of Funds Self-employed person: Not applicable. Insured person: None. Employer: See source of funds under Family Allowances, Self-employed person: Not applicable. below. Employer: 3% of gross payroll. Government: None. The maximum monthly earnings for contribution and benefit purposes are 200,000 CFA francs. Qualifying Conditions Government: None. Cash sickness benefits: No statutory benefits are provided. Cash maternity benefits: Six months of insured employment. Qualifying Conditions Work injury benefits: There is no minimum qualifying period. Sickness and Maternity Benefits Sickness benefit: No statutory benefits are provided. (The Temporary Disability Benefits labor code requires employers to provide paid sick leave.) The monthly benefit is equal to 50% of the insured’s average Maternity benefit: 50% of the insured’s daily earnings is daily earnings in the 30 days before the onset of disability for payable for up to 8 weeks before and 6 weeks after (9 weeks in the first 28 days of disability; thereafter, 66.6% of average daily case of complications) the expected date of childbirth. earnings. The benefit is payable from the day after the onset of disability until full recovery or certification of permanent Workers’ Medical Benefits disability. No statutory benefits are provided. (The labor code requires employers to provide certain medical services.) Permanent Disability Benefits Some health services are provided free during the maternity Permanent disability pension: For a total disability, the leave. pension is 100% of the insured’s average monthly earnings, up to a ceiling. Dependents’ Medical Benefits Partial disability: The insured’s average monthly earnings, up to a ceiling, multiplied by 0.5 times the assessed degree of No statutory benefits are provided. (Some maternity and child disability for the portion of disability between 10% and 50% health care is provided under Family Allowances, below.) and by 1.5 times the assessed degree of disability for the portion above 50%. SSPTW: Africa, 2005 ♦ 55 Central African Republic Constant-attendance supplement: Equal to 40% of the Qualifying Conditions pension. Family allowances: The child must be younger than age 15 Benefits are paid monthly or quarterly. (age 18 if an apprentice, age 20 if a student or disabled). School attendance is required for children of school age. The Workers’ Medical Benefits parent must have 6 months of employment and be currently working 20 days or 133 hours a month or be a social insurance Benefits include medical and surgical care, hospitalization, beneficiary. medicines, appliances, rehabilitation, and transportation. Prenatal allowance: Must undergo regular medical examinations, as specified in law. Survivor Benefits Birth grant: Awarded for each of the first three births. Survivor pension: The pension is equal to 30% of the deceased’s average monthly earnings, up to a ceiling. Family Allowance Benefits Orphan’s pension: 15% of the insured’s average monthly earnings, up to a ceiling, is payable for each of the first two Family allowances: 1,200 CFA francs a month for each child. orphans and 10% for each additional orphan; 20% for each full Prenatal allowance: 1,200 CFA francs a month for 9 months. orphan. Birth grant: A lump sum of 10,000 CFA francs for each of the Dependent parent’s and grandparent’s pension: Each first three births. receives a pension equal to 10% of the insured’s average Some maternity and child health and welfare services are also monthly earnings. provided. The total survivor pension must not exceed 85% of the deceased’s average monthly earnings. Administrative Organization Funeral grant: The grant is equal to 1/50 of the deceased’s annual income. The maximum monthly earnings for calculating Ministry of Public Administration, Labor, Social Security, and the grant are 200,000 CFA francs. Professional Training provides general supervision. Central African Social Security Office administers the program. Administrative Organization Ministry of Public Administration, Labor, Social Security, and Professional Training provides general supervision. Central African Social Security Office administers the program. Family Allowances Regulatory Framework First law: 1956. Current law: 1965. Type of program: Employment-related system. Coverage Employees and social insurance beneficiaries. Source of Funds Insured person: None. Self-employed person: Not applicable. Employer: 12% of gross payroll. The maximum monthly earnings for contribution purposes are 200,000 CFA francs. The employer contributions also finance maternity benefits. Government: None. 56 ♦ SSPTW: Africa, 2005 Chad Old-Age Benefits Chad Old-age pension: The pension is equal to 30% of the Exchange rate: US$1.00 equals insured’s average monthly earnings in the last 3 or 5 years 493.54 CFA francs. (whichever is higher), plus 1.2% of average monthly earnings for each 12-month period of insurance coverage beyond 180 months. Old Age, Disability, and Survivors The minimum pension is 60% of the highest regional minimum wage. Regulatory Framework The maximum pension is 80% of the average monthly earnings First and current laws: 1977 (pensions) and 1978 (old age, used for calculating the pension. disability, and survivors). Benefits are paid quarterly. Type of program: Social insurance system. Benefit adjustment: Benefits are adjusted by ministerial decree in consultation with the National Social Insurance Fund. Coverage Old-age settlement: A lump sum is paid equal to 1 month’s Salaried workers regulated by the labor code. wages for each year of insurance coverage. Special system for civil servants. Permanent Disability Benefits Source of Funds Disability pension: The pension is equal to 30% of the Insured person: 2% of gross earnings. insured’s average monthly earnings in the last 3 or 5 years (whichever is higher), plus 1.2% of average monthly earnings Self-employed person: Not applicable. for each 12-month period of insurance coverage beyond Employer: 4% of gross payroll. 180 months. For each year that a claim is made before the Government: None. insured reaches age 55, the insured is credited with a 1-year coverage period. Qualifying Conditions At the normal retirement age, the disability pension ceases andis replaced by an old-age pension of the same amount. Old-age pension: Age 55 (age 50 if prematurely aged), The minimum pension is 60% of the highest regional minimum registered with the National Social Insurance Fund for at least wage. 15 years, and with 180 months of insurance coverage or with 60 months of contributions in the last 10 years. Retirement The maximum pension is 80% of the average monthly earnings from gainful employment is necessary. used for calculating the pension. Old-age settlement: Age 55 (age 50 if prematurely aged) and Constant-attendance allowance: Equal to 50% of the pension. ineligible for the old-age pension. Benefits are paid quarterly. Disability pension: A loss of 2/3 of earning capacity with Benefit adjustment: Benefits are adjusted by ministerial decree 5 years of insurance, including 6 months of contributions in in consultation with the National Social Insurance Fund. the year before the onset of disability. There is no qualifying period if the disability is the result of a nonoccupational Survivor Benefits accident. Survivor pension: The deceased met the qualifying Survivor pension: The pension is equal to 50% of the conditions for a pension, was a pensioner, or had 180 months deceased’s pension. of insurance coverage at the time of death. If there is more than one eligible widow, the pension is split Survivor settlement: Paid to a survivor if the deceased was equally among them. ineligible for a pension. The pension ceases on remarriage, and a lump sum is paid. Eligible survivors are a widow aged 40 or older or pregnant, Remarriage settlement: A lump sum equal to 6 month’s disabled, or caring for a child, and who was married to the survivor pension. deceased for at least 1 year; a dependent disabled widower Orphan’s pension: The pension is equal to 25% of the who was married to the deceased for at least 1 year; and deceased’s pension for each orphan; 40% for each full orphan. children younger than age 15 (age 18 if an apprentice, age 21 if a student or disabled). The orphan’s pension must be at least equal to the family allowance. The total survivor pension must not exceed 100% of the deceased’s old-age pension. Benefits are paid quarterly. SSPTW: Africa, 2005 ♦ 57 Chad Benefit adjustment: Benefits are adjusted by ministerial decree Dependents’ Medical Benefits in consultation with the National Social Insurance Fund. No statutory benefits are provided. (Some maternity and child Survivor settlement: A lump sum is paid if the deceased was health and welfare services are provided under Family ineligible for a pension. Allowances, below.) Administrative Organization Administrative Organization Ministry of Labor and Public Affairs provides general Ministry of Labor and Public Affairs provides general supervision. supervision. National Social Insurance Fund administers the program. National Social Insurance Fund administers the program. Sickness and Maternity Work Injury Regulatory Framework Regulatory Framework First law: 1952. First law: 1935. Current law: 1966. Current law: 1966. Type of program: Social insurance system. Maternity Type of program: Social insurance system. benefits only. Coverage Coverage Employed persons. Employed women. Special system for civil servants. Source of Funds Source of Funds Insured person: None. Insured person: None. Self-employed person: Not applicable. Self-employed person: Not applicable. Employer: See source of funds under Family Allowances, below. Employer: 2.5% of gross payroll. Government: See source of funds under Family Allowances, Government: None. below. Qualifying Conditions Qualifying Conditions Work injury benefits: There is no minimum qualifying period. Cash sickness benefits: No statutory benefits are provided. The work accident must be reported within 48 hours. Cash maternity benefits: Six consecutive months of employment immediately before work ceases. Temporary Disability Benefits The benefit is equal to 2/3 of the insured’s average daily wage Sickness and Maternity Benefits in the 30 days before the onset of disability. The benefit is payable from the day after the onset of disability until full Sickness benefit: No statutory benefits are provided. (The recovery or until certification of permanent disability (after labor code requires employers to provide paid sick leave.) 2 years). Maternity benefit: The benefit is equal to 50% of the insured’s last daily earnings. The benefit is payable for Permanent Disability Benefits 6 weeks before and 8 weeks (11 weeks in case of complications) after the expected date of childbirth. Permanent disability pension: For a total disability, the pension is equal to 100% of the insured’s average monthly Workers’ Medical Benefits earnings in the 12 months before the onset of disability. Partial disability: For an assessed degree of disability of at No statutory benefits are provided. (The labor code requires least 10%, the pension is equal to the insured’s average employers to provide certain medical services.) monthly earnings in the 12 months before the onset of disability multiplied by 0.5 times the assessed degree of disability for the portion of disability up to 50% and by 1.5 times the assessed degree of disability for the portion above 50%. 58 ♦ SSPTW: Africa, 2005 Chad The earnings used for benefit calculation purposes are six Family Allowances times the highest legal minimum wage, plus 1/3 of earnings between six times the highest legal minimum wage and 25 times Regulatory Framework the highest legal minimum wage. Earnings above 25 times the highest legal minimum wage are not taken into account for First law: 1956. benefit calculation purposes. Current law: 1966. With an assessed degree of disability of at least 10%, the Type of program: Employment-related system. minimum pension is calculated on the basis of 1.35 times the highest legal minimum wage. Coverage Constant-attendance allowance: Equal to 40% of the pension. Employed persons. Pensions are normally paid quarterly. If the insured is assessed as 100% disabled, the pension is paid monthly; if Special system for civil servants. assessed as at least 75% disabled, the insured can request a monthly payment. Source of Funds Benefit adjustment: Benefits are adjusted according to Insured person: None. changes in the legal minimum wage. Self-employed person: Not applicable. Workers’ Medical Benefits Employer: 6% of gross payroll. The maximum monthly earnings for contribution purposes are Benefits include medical and surgical care, hospitalization, 130,000 CFA francs. medicines, appliances, and transportation. Government: A subsidy from earmarked taxes. Survivor Benefits All of the above contributions also finance maternity benefits under Sickness and Maternity, above. Survivor pension: The pension is equal to 30% of the deceased’s average earnings in the last 12 months. Qualifying Conditions Orphan’s pension: 15% of the deceased’s average earnings in the last 12 months is paid for each orphan younger than age 15 Family allowances: The child must be younger than age 15 (age 18 if an apprentice, age 21 if a student or disabled); 20% (age 18 if an apprentice, age 21 if a student or disabled) and for each full orphan. reside in Chad. The parent must have 6 months of employment and be currently working 20 days a month; the widow of a Dependent parent’s and grandparent’s pension: Each beneficiary. receives 10% of the deceased’s average earnings in the last 12 months, up to a maximum of 30%. Prenatal allowance: Must undergo regular prescribed medical examinations. The total survivor pension must not exceed 85% of the deceased’s average earnings used for calculating the pension. Birth grant: Awarded for the first three births of the first marriage. The earnings used for benefit calculation purposes are six times the highest legal minimum wage, plus 1/3 of earnings between six times the highest legal minimum wage and 25 times Family Allowance Benefits the highest legal minimum wage. Earnings above 25 times the Family allowances: 600 CFA francs a month for each child. highest legal minimum wage are not taken into account for benefit calculation purposes. Prenatal allowance: 5,400 CFA francs for each month of pregnancy. The allowance is paid in two installments. Benefits are paid quarterly. Birth grant: A lump sum of 6,000 CFA francs for each of the Benefit adjustment: Benefits are adjusted according to first three births. changes in the legal minimum wage. Some maternity and child health and welfare services are also Funeral grant: The cost of the funeral is reimbursed, up to a provided. maximum of 1/24 of insured earnings. Administrative Organization Administrative Organization Ministry of Labor and Public Affairs provides general Ministry of Labor and Public Affairs provides general supervision. supervision. National Social Insurance Fund administers the program. National Social Insurance Fund administers the program. SSPTW: Africa, 2005 ♦ 59 Congo (Brazzaville) 5 years, and 6 months of contributions in the year before the Congo (Brazzaville) onset of disability. There is no minimum qualifying period if the disability is the result of a nonoccupational accident. Exchange rate: US$1.00 equals 493.54 CFA francs. Survivor pension: The deceased met the qualifying conditions for a pension or was a pensioner at the time of death. Old Age, Disability, and Survivors Survivor settlement: The deceased did not qualify for a pension. Regulatory Framework Eligible survivors are a widow(er) who was married to the First law: 1962. deceased for at least 1 year, children younger than age 16 Current law: 1986 (social security). (age 17 if an apprentice, age 20 if a student or disabled), and dependent parents. Type of program: Social insurance system. Old-Age Benefits Coverage Old-age pension: The pension is equal to 40% of the Employed persons. insured’s average monthly earnings in the best 3 or 5 years out Special system for civil servants. of the last 10 years, plus 2% of the insured’s average monthly earnings for each 12-month period of insurance coverage Source of Funds beyond 240 months. The minimum pension is 60% of the highest legal minimum Insured person: 4% of gross earnings. wage. The minimum monthly earnings for contribution and benefit The maximum pension is equal to 80% of the insured’s average purposes are equal to the legal minimum wage. The legal monthly earnings. minimum monthly wage is 43,000 CFA francs. Partial pension: The pension is equal to 2% of the insured’s The maximum monthly earnings for contribution and benefit average monthly earnings in the best 3 or 5 years out of the purposes are 1,200,000 CFA francs. last 10 years for each year of insurance coverage. Self-employed person: Not applicable. Benefits are paid quarterly. Employer: 8% of gross payroll. Benefit adjustment: Pensions are adjusted for changes in the The minimum monthly earnings for contribution purposes are cost of living. equal to the legal minimum wage. The legal minimum monthly Old-age settlement: A lump sum equal to 1 month of the wage is 43,000 CFA francs. insured’s average monthly earnings in the best 3 or 5 years out The maximum monthly earnings for contribution purposes are of the last 10 years is payable for each 12-month period of 1,200,000 CFA francs. insurance coverage. Government: None. Permanent Disability Benefits Qualifying Conditions Disability pension: The pension is equal to 40% of the Old-age pension: Age 55 (age 50 if prematurely aged), insured’s average monthly earnings in the best 3 or 5 years out registered with the National Social Security Fund during the of the last 10 years, plus 2% for each 12-month period of last 20 years, and has a total of 240 months of insurance insurance coverage beyond 240 months. For each year that a coverage, including 60 months of contributions in the last claim is made before the insured reaches age 55, the insured is 10 years. Retirement from paid employment is necessary. credited with a 6-month coverage period. Partial pension: The insured is of pensionable age, retired from When the insured reaches age 55, the disability pension paid employment, and has at least 60 months of contributions ceases and is replaced by an old-age pension of the same but does not meet the other qualifying conditions for the old- amount. age pension. The minimum pension is 60% of the highest legal minimum The pension is payable abroad only if there is a reciprocal wage. agreement. The maximum pension is equal to 80% of the insured’s average Old-age settlement: The insured does not meet the monthly earnings. qualifying conditions for a full or partial pension. Constant-attendance allowance: Equal to 50% of the pension. Disability pension: A loss of 2/3 of capacity for any work, Child supplement: 1,200 CFA francs a month for each child. registered with the National Social Security Fund for at least Benefits are paid quarterly. 60 ♦ SSPTW: Africa, 2005 Congo (Brazzaville) Benefit adjustment: Pensions are adjusted for changes in the Government: None. cost of living. Qualifying Conditions Survivor Benefits Cash sickness benefits: No statutory benefits are provided. Survivor pension: 30% of the deceased’s pension is payable Cash maternity benefits: The insured must have to the widow(er). 6 consecutive months of employment and be currently working The pension ceases on remarriage, and a lump sum is paid. at least 20 days or 133 hours a month. Remarriage settlement: A lump sum equal to 6 months’ pension. Sickness and Maternity Benefits Orphan’s pension: 50% of the deceased’s pension is split Sickness benefit: No statutory benefits are provided. (The equally among the orphans. The orphan pension must be at 1975 labor code requires employers to provide paid sick leave.) least equal to family allowances. Maternity benefit: The benefit is equal to 50% of daily Other eligible survivors: 20% of the deceased’s pension is insurable earnings in the month before maternity leave begins split equally. (the employer also pays 50% of earnings). The benefit is The total survivor pension must not exceed 80% of the payable for 15 weeks, including at least 9 weeks after the deceased’s pension. expected date of childbirth; may be extended by 3 weeks in Benefits are paid quarterly. case of complications. Benefit adjustment: Pensions are adjusted for changes in the cost of living. Workers’ Medical Benefits Survivor settlement: A lump sum equal to 1 month’s basic No statutory benefits are provided. (Some maternity and child old-age pension for each 6-month period of contributions. health and welfare services are provided under Family Allowances, below.) Administrative Organization The insured is reimbursed for any medical expenses related to maternity care. Ministry of Labor and Social Security (http://www.gouv.cg) provides supervision. Dependents’ Medical Benefits National Social Security Fund administers the program. No statutory benefits are provided. (Some maternity and child health and welfare services are provided under Family Sickness and Maternity Allowances, below.) Regulatory Framework Administrative Organization First law: 1952. Ministry of Labor and Social Security (http://www.gouv.cg) Current law: 1986 (social security). provides supervision. Type of program: Social insurance system. Maternity National Social Security Fund administers the program. benefits only. Work Injury Coverage Employed women. Regulatory Framework Special system for civil servants. First law: 1935. Current law: 1986 (social security). Source of Funds Type of program: Social insurance system. Insured person: None. Self-employed person: Not applicable. Coverage Employer: 0.2% of gross payroll. Employed persons, members of workers’ cooperatives, The minimum monthly earnings for contribution purposes are apprentices, and students of technical colleges. equal to the legal minimum wage. The legal minimum monthly Special system for civil servants. wage is 43,000 CFA francs. The maximum monthly earnings for contribution purposes are 600,000 CFA francs. SSPTW: Africa, 2005 ♦ 61 Congo (Brazzaville) Source of Funds Eligible widow(er)s must not have been separated or divorced from the deceased and must have been married to the deceased Insured person: None. before the date of the accident that resulted in the insured’s Self-employed person: Not applicable. death. Employer: 2.25% of gross payroll. The pension ceases on remarriage, and a lump sum is paid. The minimum monthly earnings for contribution purposes are Remarriage settlement: A lump sum, up to a maximum of equal to the legal minimum wage. The legal minimum monthly 3 years’ pension. wage is 43,000 CFA francs. Foreign survivors who leave the country receive a lump sum The maximum monthly earnings for contribution purposes are equal to 3 years’ pension. 600,000 CFA francs. Orphan’s pension: 50% of the deceased’s earnings is split Government: None. equally among orphans younger than age 16 (age 17 if an apprentice, age 20 if a student or disabled). Qualifying Conditions Dependent parent’s pension: 20% of the deceased’s earnings is split equally. Work injury benefits: There is no minimum qualifying period. The total survivor pension must not exceed 85% of the Temporary Disability Benefits deceased’s earnings. Pensions are paid quarterly. 100% of the insured’s average daily earnings in the 30 days before the onset of disability is payable for up to 3 months; Funeral grant: The cost of the funeral, up to a maximum. thereafter, 2/3 of the same average earnings is payable. The benefit is payable from the day after the onset of disability Administrative Organization until full recovery or certification of permanent disability. Ministry of Labor and Social Security (http://www.gouv.cg) The maximum daily earnings for benefit calculation purposes provides supervision. are equal to 1% of the maximum monthly earnings for contribution purposes. National Social Security Fund administers the program. The maximum monthly earnings for contribution purposes are 600,000 CFA francs. Family Allowances Regulatory Framework Permanent Disability Benefits First law: 1949. Permanent disability pension: For a total disability, the pension is equal to 100% of the insured’s average earnings. Current law: 1986 (social security). Partial disability: The pension is equal to the insured’s average Type of program: Employment-related system. earnings multiplied by 0.5 times the assessed degree of disability for the portion of disability between 10% and 50%, Coverage and by 1.5 times the assessed degree of disability for the portion above 50%. For an assessed degree of incapacity less Employed persons. than 10%, a lump sum is paid. Special system for civil servants. Constant-attendance allowance: Equal to 50% of the pension. Pensions are normally paid quarterly. If the insured is Source of Funds assessed as 100% disabled, the pension is paid monthly; if Insured person: None. assessed as at least 75% disabled, the insured can request a monthly payment; if assessed as less than 25% disabled, Self-employed person: Not applicable. annual payments are made. Employer: 10.03% of gross payroll. The minimum monthly earnings for contribution purposes are Workers’ Medical Benefits equal to the legal minimum wage. The legal minimum monthly wage is 43,000 CFA francs. Benefits include medical and surgical care, hospitalization, medicines, appliances, and transportation. The maximum monthly earnings for contribution purposes are 600,000 CFA francs. Survivor Benefits Government: None. Survivor pension: 30% of the deceased’s earnings are paid to the widow(er). 62 ♦ SSPTW: Africa, 2005 Congo (Brazzaville) Qualifying Conditions Family allowances: The child must be younger than age 16 (age 17 if an apprentice, age 20 if a student or disabled). The parent must have 6 consecutive months of employment and be currently working at least 20 days or 133 hours a month; the widow of an insured person. Prenatal allowance: Must undergo regular prescribed medical examinations. Birth grant: Awarded for the first three births of the first marriage. Family Allowance Benefits Family allowances: 1,200 CFA francs a month for each child. Prenatal allowance: 1,200 CFA francs a month for each month of pregnancy. The allowance is paid in two installments. Birth grant: A lump sum of 1,100 CFA francs for each of the first three births. Some maternity and child health and welfare services are also provided. Administrative Organization Ministry of Labor and Social Security (http://www.gouv.cg) provides supervision. National Social Security Fund administers the program. SSPTW: Africa, 2005 ♦ 63 Congo (Kinshasa) Eligible survivors are a nonworking widow aged 50 or older or Congo (Kinshasa) disabled, a dependent disabled widower, and orphans younger than age 16 (age 25 if a student, no limit if disabled). Exchange rate: US$1.00 equals 433.50 Congolese francs. The widow(er) must have been married to the deceased for more than 6 months; if the death was the result of an accident, the widow(er) must have been married to the deceased before Old Age, Disability, and Survivors the date of the accident. The benefit is suspended if the widow resumes paid employment. Regulatory Framework First law: 1956. Old-Age Benefits Current law: 1961 (social security). Old-age pension: An annual benefit of 1/60 of the insured’s Social insurance system. average monthly covered earnings times the number of monthsType of program: of insurance coverage. Coverage The minimum pension is 50% of the legal minimum wage. Benefits are paid monthly or quarterly. Employed persons, including domestic workers, casual workers, some categories of boat workers, and public-sector Benefit adjustment: Benefits are adjusted by presidential employees not otherwise covered by a social security program. decree, according to changes in wages. Voluntary coverage for nonemployed persons who were Old-age settlement: A lump sum equal to 10 times the annual previously insured for at least 5 years, including 6 consecutive pension, based on the number of complete years of insurance months, and who request to be covered in the 6-month period coverage. after insured employment ceases. The minimum settlement is 50% of the minimum annual Special system for civil servants. pension. Source of Funds Permanent Disability Benefits Insured person: 3.5% of gross earnings. The voluntarily Disability pension: An annual benefit of 1/60 of the insured insured contribute 7% of the most recent 6 months’ covered average monthly covered earnings in the 3 years before the earnings, according to three earnings classes. onset of disability times the number of months of insurance coverage. For each month that a claim is made before the Self-employed person: Not applicable. insured reaches age 55, the insured is credited with a 1-month Employer: 3.5% of gross payroll. coverage period. At the normal retirement age, the disability Government: An annual subsidy, up to a maximum. pension is replaced by an old-age pension of the same amount. The minimum pension is 50% of the legal minimum wage. Qualifying Conditions Constant-attendance allowance: Equal to 50% of the pension. Old-age pension: Age 65 (men) or age 60 (women); age 55 Benefits are paid monthly or quarterly. (men and women) if prematurely aged, with 60 months of Benefit adjustment: Benefits are adjusted by presidential insurance coverage in the last 10 years. Retirement from paid decree, according to changes in wages. employment is necessary. The pension is payable abroad only if there is a reciprocal Survivor Benefits agreement. Survivor pension: 40% of the insured’s pension is paid to the Old-age settlement: The insured does not meet the widow(er). qualifying conditions for an old-age pension. The settlement is payable from age 58. Retirement from paid employment is The pension ceases on remarriage, and a lump sum is paid. necessary. Remarriage settlement: A lump sum equal to 12 months’ Disability pension: A loss of 2/3 of earning capacity with pension. 36 months of insurance coverage in the last 5 years. There is Orphan’s pension: A lump sum equal to 25% of the survivor no minimum qualifying period if the disability is the result of a settlement for each orphan; 50% each for full orphans or half- nonoccupational accident. orphans if the mother does not qualify for a survivor pension Survivor pension: The deceased met the qualifying or settlement. conditions for a pension or was a pensioner at the time of The total orphan’s pension must not exceed 100% of the death. survivor settlement. Survivor settlement: The deceased did not meet the Benefits are paid monthly or quarterly. qualifying conditions for a pension. 64 ♦ SSPTW: Africa, 2005 Congo (Kinshasa) Benefit adjustment: Benefits are adjusted by presidential Qualifying Conditions decree, according to changes in wages. Work injury benefits: There is no minimum qualifying period. Survivor settlement: A lump sum equal to 12 months’ pension is paid to survivors. Temporary Disability Benefits Administrative Organization If at least 60% disabled, the benefit is equal to 2/3 of the insured’s average daily earnings in the 3 months before the Minister of Labor and Social Security provides administrative onset of disability (plus family allowances where applicable). and technical oversight. The benefit is payable from the day after the onset of disability Minister of Investments is responsible for investments. or occupational illness until full recovery or certification of National Social Security Institute administers the program permanent disability. through 8 central directorates, 4 urban directorates in The benefit is reduced by 50% during periods of Kinshasa, 10 provincial directorates, and 15 district bureaus. hospitalization if the insured has no dependents. Sickness and Maternity Permanent Disability Benefits Permanent disability pension: For a total disability, the Regulatory Framework pension is equal to 85% of the insured’s average monthly Sickness benefits: No statutory benefits are provided. (The earnings in the 3 months before the onset of disability. labor code requires employers to pay 2/3 of wages, plus family Constant-attendance allowance: Equal to 50% of the pension. allowances.) Partial disability: A percentage of the full pension according to Maternity benefits: No statutory benefits are provided. (The the assessed degree of disability. If the assessed degree of labor code requires employers to provide 14 weeks of paid disability is less than 15%, the benefit is paid as a lump sum maternity leave.) equal to three times the annual pension. Medical benefits: Medical care is available for old-age Benefits are paid monthly or quarterly. pensioners and disability pensioners and their dependents in Benefit adjustment: The pension is adjusted periodically. government hospitals and dispensaries and in the medical facilities of the National Social Security Institute. The labor code requires employers to provide medical care for Workers’ Medical Benefits workers and their dependents. Benefits include medical, dental, surgical, and hospital care; X-rays; laboratory services; pharmaceuticals; appliances; and Work Injury transportation. Regulatory Framework Survivor Benefits First law: 1949. Survivor pension: 20% of the insured’s permanent disability 1961 (social security). pension is paid to a widow of any age or to a dependentCurrent law: disabled widower. Type of program: Social insurance system. The pension ceases on remarriage, and a lump sum is paid. Coverage Remarriage settlement: A lump sum equal to 12 months’pension. Employed persons, including domestic and casual workers, Orphan’s pension: 15% of the deceased’s permanent sailors, apprentices, students in vocational and craft schools, disability pension is paid for each orphan younger than age 16 and public-sector employees not otherwise covered by a social (age 25 if a student, no limit if disabled). security program. The total survivor pension must not exceed 100% of the deceased’s permanent disability pension. Source of Funds Funeral grant: A lump sum equal to 90 days’ legal minimum Insured person: None. wage. Self-employed person: Not applicable. Employer: 1.5% of gross payroll. (The contribution may Administrative Organization increase, depending on the reported accident rate.) Minister of Labor and Social Security provides administrative Government: None. and technical oversight. SSPTW: Africa, 2005 ♦ 65 Congo (Kinshasa) Minister of Investments is responsible for investments. National Social Security Institute administers contributions and benefits. Family Allowances Regulatory Framework First law: 1951. Current law: 1961 (social security). Type of program: Employment-related system. Coverage Employed persons and social insurance beneficiaries in Katanga Province. The labor code requires employers to provide family benefits to workers in all provinces except Katanga. Special system for civil servants. Source of Funds Insured person: None. Self-employed person: Not applicable. Employer: 4% of gross payroll. Government: None. Qualifying Conditions Family allowances: The child must be unmarried and younger than age 16 (age 25 if a student, no limit if disabled). Family Allowance Benefits Family allowances: 10% of the legal minimum wage for each child. Benefits are paid retroactively at regular intervals not greater than 3 months and not less than 15 days. Benefit adjustment: Benefits may be adjusted annually according to changes in the cost of living. Administrative Organization Minister of Labor and Social Security provides administrative and technical oversight. Minister of Investments is responsible for investments. National Social Security Institute administers the program in Katanga Province. 66 ♦ SSPTW: Africa, 2005 Côte d’Ivoire Survivor pension: The insured was a pensioner or met the Côte d’Ivoire qualifying conditions for a pension at the time of death. Exchange rate: US$1.00 equals The pension is payable to a widow(er) who was married to the 493.54 CFA francs. deceased for at least 2 years and to full orphans younger than age 17 (age 19 if an apprentice, age 22 if a student or disabled). Old Age, Disability, and Survivors Old-Age Benefits Regulatory Framework Old-age pension: The pension is equal to 1.33% of the insured’s average earnings in the 10 best years times the First law: 1960. number of years of paid and credited insurance coverage Current law: 1999 (social insurance), with 2000 amendment. before January 1, 2000, plus 1.70% of the insured’s average Social insurance system. earnings for each year of coverage after this date.Type of program: The minimum pension is equal to 50% of the monthly legal Coverage minimum wage. The monthly legal minimum wage is36,607 CFA francs. Employed persons. The maximum pension is 50% of the insured’s average earnings Special system for civil servants. in the 10 best years. Early pension: The pension is reduced by 5% for each year Source of Funds that the pension is taken before age 55. Insured person: 3.2% of gross earnings. Child supplement: 10% of the insured’s pension is paid for each child younger than age 16, up to a maximum of 30%. In the absence of a reciprocal agreement, the contributions of a foreign insured person may be reimbursed as a lump sum if the The pension is paid quarterly. insured has less than 3 years of contributions at the time of Benefit adjustment: Pensions are adjusted according to leaving the country. changes in the average salary, depending on the financial The maximum monthly earnings for contribution purposes are resources of the system. equal to 45 times the monthly legal minimum wage. The Old-age allowance: A lump sum based on average earnings monthly legal minimum wage is 36,607 CFA francs. and years of insurance coverage. Self-employed person: Not applicable. Employer: 4.8% of gross payroll. Permanent Disability Benefits The maximum monthly earnings for contribution purposes are Disability pension: The pension is equal to 1.33% of the equal to 45 times the monthly legal minimum wage. The insured’s average earnings in the 10 best years times the monthly legal minimum wage is 36,607 CFA francs. number of years of paid and credited insurance coverage Contributions are paid monthly by employers with 20 or more before January 1, 2000, plus 1.70% of the insured’s average employees or quarterly by employers with 1 to 19 employees. earnings for each year of coverage after this date. Government: None. Child supplement: 10% of the insured’s pension is paid for each child younger than age 16, up to a maximum of 30%. Qualifying Conditions The pension is paid quarterly. Benefit adjustment: Pensions are adjusted according to Old-age pension: Age 55 with 15 years of contributions. changes in the average salary, depending on the financial Retirement from covered employment is necessary. resources of the system. Early pension: A reduced pension is payable from age 50. If the insured has insufficient years of contributions to qualify Survivor Benefits for the pension at retirement age, he or she can buy up to 24 months’ contributions in order to meet the contribution Survivor pension: 50% of the deceased’s pension is paid to a conditions and can also continue working for up to 5 years widow(er). If there is more than one widow, the pension is split after age 55. equally among them. The pension is payable abroad. The pension ceases on remarriage. Old-age allowance: Ineligible for the old-age pension at Full orphan’s pension: Each receives 20% of the deceased’s age 55 with at least 3 years of employment. pension. Disability pension: Permanently incapable of any work with The total full orphan’s pension must not exceed 100% of the 15 years of contributions. deceased’s pension; otherwise, the pensions are reduced proportionately. SSPTW: Africa, 2005 ♦ 67 Côte d’Ivoire The pension is paid quarterly. before and 8 weeks (11 weeks in case of complications) after Benefit adjustment: Pensions are adjusted according to the expected date of childbirth. changes in the average salary, depending on the financial resources of the system. Workers’ Medical Benefits Medical care is provided by community health centers of the Administrative Organization National Social Insurance Fund. Ministry of Solidarity, Social Security, and the Disabled (http:// Employers must provide medical services for their workers. www.msssh.ci) provides administrative and technical Salaried pregnant women have access to free medical care supervision. provided through public hospitals or can receive Ministry of Economy and Finance provides financial 5,000 CFA francs toward the cost of childbirth in a private supervision. clinic or other establishment. From the third month of Managed by a tripartite board, the unitary Social Insurance pregnancy, the cost of medical care and medicines are Institute and National Social Insurance Fund (http:// reimbursed. www.cnps.ci) administers the program. Dependents’ Medical Benefits Sickness and Maternity Health care is provided to children at community health centers managed by the National Social Insurance Fund. Regulatory Framework First law: 1956. Administrative Organization Current law: 1999 (social insurance), with 2000 amendment. Ministry of Solidarity, Social Security, and the Disabled (http:// Type of program: Social insurance system. Cash maternity www.msssh.ci) provides administrative and technical and medical benefits only. supervision. Ministry of Economy and Finance provides financial Coverage supervision. Employed women, including temporary, fixed-term, or daily Managed by a tripartite board, the unitary Social Insurance employed women in the public sector. Institute and National Social Insurance Fund (http://www.cnps.ci) administers the program. Special system for civil servants. Work Injury Source of Funds Insured person: None. Regulatory Framework Self-employed person: Not applicable. First law: 1957. Employer: 0.75% of gross payroll. Current law: 1999 (social insurance), with 2000 amendment. The maximum monthly earnings for contribution purposes are Type of program: Social insurance system. 70,000 CFA francs. Contributions are paid monthly by employers with 20 or more Coverage employees or quarterly by employers with 1 to 19 employees. Employed persons, seamen, members of cooperatives, Government: None; contributes as an employer for public- nonsalaried managers of cooperatives and their assistants, sector employed women who are not civil servants. chairmen and managing directors of certain companies, apprentices, technical college students, and convicted persons Qualifying Conditions working in prison workshops. Cash sickness benefits: No statutory benefits are provided. Voluntary coverage for self-employed persons for all work injury benefits except temporary disability benefit. Cash maternity benefits: Three months of insured employment. Source of Funds Sickness and Maternity Benefits Insured person: None. Sickness benefit: No statutory benefits are provided. Self-employed person: Voluntary contributions, according to the assessed degree of risk. Maternity benefit: The monthly benefit is equal to 100% of the insured’s last earnings. The benefit is payable for 6 weeks Employer: 2% to 5% of gross payroll, according to the assessed degree of risk. 68 ♦ SSPTW: Africa, 2005 Côte d’Ivoire The maximum monthly earnings for contribution purposes are If the widow(er) has no eligible dependent child, the survivor 70,000 CFA francs. pension ceases on remarriage and a lump sum is paid. Contributions are paid monthly by employers with 20 or more Remarriage allowance: A lump sum equal to 3 years’ pension. employees or quarterly by employers with 1 to 19 employees. Orphan’s pension: The annual pension is equal to 15% of the Government: None. deceased’s annual earnings for each of the first two orphans younger than age 15 (age 19 if an apprentice, age 22 if a Qualifying Conditions student or disabled) and 10% for each other orphan; 20% for each full orphan. Work injury benefits: There is no minimum qualifying period. Dependent parent’s and grandparent’s pension: Parents Accidents that occur while commuting to and from work are and grandparents each receive 10% of the deceased’s covered. earnings, up to a maximum of 30% of the deceased’s earnings. The total survivor pension must not exceed 85% of the Temporary Disability Benefits deceased’s earnings; otherwise, the pensions are reduced The benefit is equal to 50% of the insured’s earnings at the proportionately. onset of disability for the first 28 days; thereafter, 2/3 of Funeral grant: A lump sum covering the cost of burial. earnings. The benefit is payable from the day following the onset of disability until full recovery or certification of Benefit adjustment: Pensions are adjusted annually according permanent disability. to changes in the average salary, depending on the financialresources of the system. Permanent Disability Benefits Administrative Organization Permanent disability pension: For a total disability, the pension is equal to 100% of the insured’s annual earnings. Ministry of Solidarity, Social Security, and the Disabled (http://www.msssh.ci) provides administrative and technical Partial disability: The pension is equal to a percentage of the supervision. insured’s annual earnings according to the assessed degree of disability. Ministry of Economy and Finance provides financialsupervision. The minimum earnings for benefit calculation purposes are the legal minimum monthly wage. The monthly legal minimum Managed by a tripartite board, the unitary Social Insurance wage is 36,607 CFA francs. Institute and National Social Insurance Fund (http://www.cnps.ci) administers the program. Constant-attendance allowance: Equal to 40% of the pension. Pensions are paid monthly if the assessed degree of disability Family Allowances is 75% or more; quarterly or yearly if the assessed degree of disability is less than 10%. Regulatory Framework The pension may be partially paid as a lump sum after receiving the pension for 5 years if the assessed degree of First law: 1955. disability is more than 10%; the total remaining pension may be Current law: 1999 (social insurance), with 2000 amendment. paid as a lump sum after receiving the pension for 5 years if the Type of program: Employment-related system. assessed degree of disability is 10% or less. Benefit adjustment: Pensions are adjusted annually according Coverage to changes in the average salary, depending on the financial resources of the system. Employees with one or more children. Special system for civil servants. Workers’ Medical Benefits Benefits include medical and surgical care, hospitalization, Source of Funds medicines, appliances, funeral transportation, and Insured person: None. rehabilitation. Self-employed person: Not applicable. Employer: 5% of gross payroll. Survivor Benefits The maximum monthly earnings for contribution purposes are Survivor pension: The annual pension is equal to 30% of the 70,000 CFA francs. deceased’s annual earnings. The widow(er) must have been married to the deceased before the onset of the deceased’s Contributions are paid monthly by employers with 20 or more disability. If there is more than one widow, the pension is split employees or quarterly by employers with 1 to 19 employees. equally among them. Government: None. SSPTW: Africa, 2005 ♦ 69 Côte d’Ivoire Qualifying Conditions Family allowances: Paid for a child older than 12 months and younger than age 14 (age 19 if an apprentice, age 22 if a student or disabled). The parent must have 3 consecutive months of employment and be currently working 18 days or 120 hours a month; the widow of an insured person. Prenatal allowance: The insured must undergo three prescribed medical examinations during the pregnancy. Birth grant: Paid for children born in the insured’s first marriage. If the insured’s first spouse dies, a child born in the insured’s second marriage may be eligible. The grant is payable for three births only. Must undergo prescribed medical examinations. Maternity allowance: The child must undergo prescribed medical examinations when aged 2 months, 4 months, 6 months, 8 months, and 12 months. Family Allowance Benefits Family allowances: 1,500 CFA francs a month for each child. The allowance is paid quarterly. Prenatal allowance: The allowance is 13,500 CFA francs and is paid in three installments, with each one preceded by a medical examination. Birth grant: A lump sum of 18,000 CFA francs on the birth of each of the first three children. Maternity allowance: 18,000 CFA francs is paid in three installments: 9,000 CFA francs at childbirth, 4,500 CFA francs when the child is 6 months old, and 4,500 CFA francs when the child is 12 months old. Administrative Organization Ministry of Solidarity, Social Security, and the Disabled (http:// www.msssh.ci) provides administrative and technical supervision. Ministry of Economy and Finance provides financial supervision. Managed by a tripartite board, the unitary Social Insurance Institute and National Social Insurance Fund (http:// www.cnps.ci) administers the program. 70 ♦ SSPTW: Africa, 2005 Egypt Qualifying Conditions Egypt Old-age pension (base and variable): Age 60 with Exchange rate: US$1.00 equals 6.21 pounds. 120 months of contributions. Early pension (base and variable): At any age with 240 months of contributions. Old Age, Disability, and Survivors Flat-rate allowance: The insured is eligible for a pension. Old-age benefit (base and variable): If eligible for a pension, a Regulatory Framework lump sum is paid at retirement. First laws: 1950 (social assistance) and 1955 (provident and Old-age settlement: Age 60 but does not qualify for a (base insurance fund). and variable) pension, at any age if emigrating, if sentenced to Current laws: 1975 (civil servants and public- and private- 10 or more years of imprisonment, or to insured women aged 51 sector employees), 1976 (employers and self-employed), 1978 or older (married, divorced, or widowed) who do not qualify for (migrant workers), and 1980 (coverage extension). a (base and variable) pension. Type of program: Social insurance system. Lump-sum benefit: If eligible for an old-age settlement, a lump sum is paid at retirement. Coverage Disability pension (base and variable): Totally or partiallydisabled and permanently incapable of any gainful Employed persons aged 18 or older (aged 16 or older if a employment. The insured must be younger than age 60 and government employee). have 3 consecutive months or a total of at least 6 months of Special systems for self-employed persons and employers, contributions. The onset of disability must begin during migrant workers, temporary and casual workers in agriculture, insurable employment or within a year after employment artisans, small land and property owners, and domestic ceases; 10 years of contributions are required if the onset of servants. disability begins more than a year after employment ceases. Flat-rate allowance: The insured is eligible for a pension. Source of Funds Disability benefit (base and variable): If eligible for a disability pension, a lump sum is paid. Insured person: 10% of gross monthly earnings, plus 3% of gross base monthly earnings for lump-sum benefits. Supplementary benefit: A lump sum is paid to persons eligible for the disability pension. The minimum monthly earnings for contribution and benefit purposes are equal to the lower limit of the civil servant salary Disability settlement: Assessed as totally disabled but does scale (84 pounds in July 2001). not meet the qualifying conditions for a pension. The maximum monthly earnings (base plus variable earnings) Lump-sum benefit: If eligible for a disability settlement, a lump for contribution and benefit purposes are 1,150 pounds. sum is paid. Base earnings are earnings up to 650 pounds a month. Variable Supplementary benefit: A lump sum is paid to persons eligible earnings are earnings exceeding 650 pounds a month, plus for the disability settlement. certain other forms of compensation, including bonuses, Survivor pension (base and variable): The deceased was a incentives, commissions, and profit shares. pensioner or had 3 consecutive months or a total of 6 months Self-employed person: 15% of monthly income, chosen by of contributions; 10 years of contributions are required if the the insured from a fixed earnings scale ranging from death occurred more than a year after employment ceased and 100 pounds to 1,000 pounds. before the insured reached retirement age. Employer: 15% of gross monthly payroll, plus 2% of gross Flat-rate allowance: The deceased was eligible for a pension. base monthly payroll for lump-sum benefits. Survivor benefit (base and variable): If eligible for a survivor The minimum monthly earnings for contribution purposes are pension, a lump sum is paid. equal to the lower limit of the civil servant salary scale Supplementary benefit: A lump sum is paid to eligible (84 pounds in July 2001). survivors. The maximum monthly earnings (base and variable earnings) Survivor settlement: If the deceased did not qualify for a for contribution purposes are 1,150 pounds. (base and variable) pension, a lump sum is payable to eligible Base earnings are base pay up to 650 pounds a month. survivors or the legal heir. Variable earnings are base pay exceeding 650 pounds a month, Lump-sum benefit: Paid to survivors eligible for the survivor plus certain other forms of compensation, including bonuses, settlement. incentives, commissions, and profit shares. Supplementary benefit: A lump sum is paid to survivors Government: 1% of gross monthly insurable payroll; the cost eligible for the survivor settlement. of deficits. SSPTW: Africa, 2005 ♦ 71 Egypt Death grant: Payable for the death of the insured. The grant The maximum total pension (basic plus variable) is 80% of is payable to the surviving spouse or eligible surviving average monthly (base plus variable) earnings or 900 pounds a children. month, whichever is less. Funeral grant: The cost of the funeral is payable to the Old-age benefit (base and variable): One month’s base surviving spouse or to the eldest child. earnings for each year of paid contributions. Eligible survivors are a dependent widow or a disabled Old-age settlement: Up to 15% (9% for contribution periods widower; dependent sons and brothers younger than age 21 paid retroactively) of the total reference (base plus variable) (age 26 if a student, no limit if disabled); unmarried daughters earnings multiplied by 12, for each year of contributions. and sisters; dependent parents; and a divorced spouse The reference base earnings are equal to average monthly base without any other source of income and previously married to earnings in the last 2 years or average monthly base earnings, the deceased for at least 20 years. increased by 40%, in the 5 years before the last 2 years, whichever is lower. Old-Age Benefits The reference variable earnings are equal to average monthly Old-age pension variable earnings in the total contribution period increased by Base pension: Up to 1/45 (1/40 for arduous work or 1/36 for 2% for each complete year of contributions, up to a maximum dangerous work) of the reference base earnings for each year of 500 pounds. Variable earnings are base pay over of contributions, up to a maximum of 36 years. 650 pounds a month, plus certain other forms of compensation,including bonuses, incentives, commissions, and profit shares. The reference base earnings are equal to average monthly base earnings during the last 2 years or average monthly base Lump-sum benefit: One month’s base earnings for each year of earnings, increased by 40%, in the 5 years before the last paid contributions. 2 years, whichever is lower. Base earnings are base pay up to 650 pounds a month. Permanent Disability Benefits Base pension special increment: 25% of the base pension, up Disability pension to a maximum of 35 pounds. The minimum increment is Base pension: Up to 1/45 (1/40 for arduous work or 1/36 for 20 pounds. dangerous work) of the reference base earnings for each year Flat-rate allowance: 10 pounds. of contributions, up to a maximum of 36 years. Supplement for additional contribution periods: A lump sum The reference base earnings are equal to the average monthly equal to 15% (9% for contribution periods paid retroactively) base earnings during the last year. Base earnings are base pay of the reference base earnings is awarded for each year of paid up to 650 pounds a month. contributions beyond 36 years. Base pension special increment: 25% of the base pension, up Early base pension: The base pension is reduced according to to a maximum of 35 pounds. The minimum increment is insured’s age at the date of claim for the pension: the 20 pounds. reduction is 15% if younger than age 45; 10%, if younger than Flat-rate allowance: 10 pounds. age 50; 5%, if younger than age 55. There is no reduction if aged 55 or older. Variable pension: 1/45 (1/40 for arduous work or 1/36 for dangerous work) of the reference variable earnings for each The base pension special increment is not payable if the year of contributions. applicant for the early pension is younger than age 50. The reference variable earnings are equal to average monthly Variable pension: 1/45 (1/40 for arduous work or 1/36 for variable earnings in the total contribution period increased by dangerous work) of the reference variable earnings for each 2% for each complete year of contributions, up to a maximum year of contributions. of 500 pounds. Variable earnings are base pay over The reference variable earnings are equal to average monthly 650 pounds a month, plus certain other forms of compensation, variable earnings for the total contribution period increased by including bonuses, incentives, commissions, and profit shares. 2% for each complete year of contributions, up to a maximum The minimum total pension (base plus variable) is 50% of the of 500 pounds. Variable earnings are base pay over average monthly (base plus variable) earnings in the last 650 pounds a month, plus certain other forms of compensation, 2 years (with at least 20 years of coverage) or 100 pounds a including bonuses, incentives, commissions, and profit shares. month, whichever is higher. Early variable pension: The variable pension is reduced by 5% The maximum total pension (base plus variable) is 80% of the for each year that the insured is younger than age 60 at the average monthly (base plus variable) earnings or 900 pounds a time of the claim. month, whichever is less. The minimum total pension (base plus variable) is 50% of Constant-attendance allowance: Equal to 20% of the pension. average monthly (base plus variable) earnings in the last 2 years (with at least 20 years of coverage) or 100 pounds a Disability benefit (base and variable): One month’s base month, whichever is higher. earnings for each year of paid contributions. 72 ♦ SSPTW: Africa, 2005 Egypt The minimum benefit is 10 months’ base earnings. The maximum total pension (base plus variable) is 80% of the Supplementary benefit: Equal to 12 times the total reference average monthly (base plus variable) earnings or 900 pounds a monthly (base plus variable) earnings used to calculate the month, whichever is less. disability pension times an age coefficient. The benefit is Survivor benefit (base and variable): One month’s base reduced by 50% for a partial disability. earnings for each year of paid contributions. Disability settlement: Up to 15% (9% for contribution The minimum benefit is 10 months’ base earnings. periods paid retroactively) of the total reference earnings (base Supplementary benefit: Equal to 12 times the total reference plus variable) multiplied by 12, for each year of contributions. monthly (base plus variable) earnings used to calculate the The reference base earnings are equal to the average monthly survivor pension times an age coefficient. base earnings during the last 2 years or the average monthly Survivor settlement: Up to 15% (9% for contribution periods base earnings, increased by 40%, during the 5 years before the paid retroactively) of the total reference (base plus variable) last 2 years, whichever is lower. Base earnings are base pay up earnings multiplied by 12, for each year of contributions. to 650 pounds a month. The reference base earnings are equal to the average monthly The reference variable earnings are equal to average monthly base earnings during the last 2 years or the average monthly variable earnings over the entire contributory period increased base earnings, increased by 40%, during the 5 years before the by 2% for each complete year of contributions up to a last 2 years, whichever is lower. Base earnings are base pay up maximum of 500 pounds. Variable earnings are base pay over to 650 pounds a month. 650 pounds a month, plus certain other forms of compensation, including bonuses, incentives, commissions, and profit shares. The reference variable earnings are equal to average monthly variable earnings over the entire contributory period increased Lump-sum benefit: One month’s base earnings for each year of by 2% for each complete year of contributions up to a paid contributions. maximum of 500 pounds. Variable earnings are base pay over The minimum benefit is 10 months’ base earnings. 650 pounds a month, plus certain other forms of compensation, Supplementary benefit: Equal to 12 times the total reference including bonuses, incentives, commissions, and profit shares. monthly (base plus variable) earnings used to calculate the Lump-sum benefit: One month’s base earnings for each year of disability pension times an age coefficient. The benefit is paid contributions. reduced by 50% for a partial disability. The minimum benefit is 10 months’ base earnings. Supplementary benefit: Equal to 12 times the total reference Survivor Benefits monthly (base plus variable) earnings used to calculate the Survivor pension survivor pension times an age coefficient. Base pension: Up to 1/45 (1/40 for arduous work or 1/36 for Death grant: Equal to 3 months’ (base plus variable) pension. dangerous work) of the reference base earnings for each year Funeral grant: Equal to 2 months’ (base plus variable) of contributions, up to a maximum of 36 years. pension. The minimum grant is 200 pounds. The reference base earnings are equal to the average monthly base earnings in the last year. Base earnings are base pay up Administrative Organization to 650 pounds a month. Ministry of Insurance and Social Affairs (http:// Base pension special increment: 25% of the base pension, up www.misaegy.com) provides general supervision. to a maximum of 35 pounds. The minimum increment is 20 pounds. National Organization for Social Insurance for the Private and Public Sector Fund administers the program. Flat-rate allowance: 10 pounds. Social Insurance Government Sector Fund administers the Variable pension: 1/45 (1/40 for arduous work or 1/36 for program for government employees. dangerous work) of the reference variable earnings for each year of contributions. The reference variable earnings are equal to average monthly Sickness and Maternity variable earnings in the total contribution period increased by 2% for each complete year of contributions, up to a maximum. Regulatory Framework Variable earnings are base pay over 650 pounds a month, plus First laws: 1959 and 1964. certain other forms of compensation, including bonuses, incentives, commissions, and profit shares. Current law: 1975 (social security). The minimum total pension (base plus variable) is 50% of the Type of program: Social insurance system. average monthly (base plus variable) earnings in the last 2 years (with at least 20 years of coverage) or 100 pounds a month, whichever is higher. SSPTW: Africa, 2005 ♦ 73 Egypt Coverage Benefits are paid daily, weekly, or monthly, depending on the frequency of the insured’s wage payments. Employed persons aged 18 or older (aged 16 or older if a government employee). Coverage is being extended gradually to students. Workers’ Medical Benefits Exclusions: Temporary and casual agricultural workers, Benefits include general and specialist care, surgery, domestic servants, small-scale artisans, and the self-employed. hospitalization, maternity care, dental care, laboratory services, medicines, rehabilitation services, and appliances. Source of Funds Service benefits are provided by employer, public, or other medical facilities under contract with the Health Insurance Insured person: 1% of gross monthly earnings; old-age Organization, which pays benefits directly. pensioners contribute 1% of the pension; survivors optionally contribute 2% of the survivor pension. The minimum monthly earnings for contribution and benefit Dependents’ Medical Benefits purposes are equal to the lower limit of the civil servant salary Benefits include general and specialist care, surgery, scale (84 pounds in July 2001). hospitalization, maternity care, dental care, laboratory services, The maximum monthly earnings for contribution and benefit medicines, rehabilitation services, and appliances. purposes are 1,150 pounds. Service benefits are provided by employer, public, or other Self-employed person: Not applicable. medical facilities under contract with the Health Insurance Organization, which pays benefits directly. Employer: 4% of gross monthly payroll; 3% for employers providing cash sickness benefits to employees. Administrative Organization The minimum monthly earnings for contribution and benefit purposes are equal to the lower limit of the civil servant salary Ministry of Health provides general supervision. scale (84 pounds in July 2001). National Organization for Social Insurance for the Private and The maximum monthly earnings for contribution and benefit Public Sector Fund and the Social Insurance Government purposes are 1,150 pounds. Sector Fund administer contributions and cash benefits. Government: None; the cost of cash benefits paid directly to Health Insurance Organization administers medical benefits insured government employees. through its hospitals. Qualifying Conditions Work Injury Cash sickness and medical benefits: Must have paid contributions for the last 3 months or for a total of 6 months, Regulatory Framework including the last 2 months. First law: 1936. Cash maternity benefits: Must have paid contributions for Current law: 1975 (social security). the last 10 months. Type of program: Social insurance system. Sickness and Maternity Benefits Coverage Sickness benefit: 75% of the last insurable daily wage before Employed persons aged 18 or older (aged 16 or older if a the onset of incapacity is paid for the first 90 days; thereafter, government employee). 85% (100% of earnings is payable for a specified chronic disease). The benefit is payable for up to 180 days in a Exclusions: Casual workers, domestic workers, and the self- calendar year; no limit on duration for specified chronic employed. diseases. The minimum benefit is equal to the minimum contributory Source of Funds salary. Insured person: None. Benefits are paid daily, weekly, or monthly, depending on the Self-employed person: Not applicable. frequency of the insured’s wage payments. Employer: 3% of gross monthly payroll; a maximum of 2% of Maternity benefit: 75% of the last insurable daily wage before gross payroll if the employer provides employees with the maternity leave period is payable for up to 90 days. The temporary disability benefits. benefit is payable for a maximum of three pregnancies. The minimum monthly earnings for contribution and benefit The minimum benefit is equal to the minimum contributory purposes are equal to the lower limit of the civil servant salary salary. scale (84 pounds in July 2001). 74 ♦ SSPTW: Africa, 2005 Egypt The maximum monthly earnings for contribution and benefit Workers’ Medical Benefits purposes are 1,150 pounds. Benefits include general and specialist care, surgery, Government: None. hospitalization, medicines, X-rays, appliances, and rehabilitation. Qualifying Conditions Work injury benefits: There is no minimum qualifying period. Survivor Benefits Survivor pension Temporary Disability Benefits Base pension: 80% of average monthly base earnings during 100% of daily insurable earnings is payable from the day after the last year before the insured’s death. Base earnings are the onset of disability until full recovery or certification of base pay up to 650 pounds a month. permanent disability. The minimum base pension is 20 pounds a month. The minimum benefit is equal to the minimum contributory The maximum base pension is 500 pounds a month. salary. Variable pension: 80% of average monthly variable insurable Benefits are paid daily, weekly, or monthly, depending on the earnings during the total contribution period. Variable frequency of the insured’s wage payments. earnings are base pay over 650 pounds a month, plus certain other forms of compensation, including bonuses, incentives, Permanent Disability Benefits commissions, and profit shares. If combined with the old-age pension, disability pension, or Permanent disability pension survivor pension, the work injury survivor pension must not Base pension: 80% of average monthly base earnings in the exceed 100% of average monthly insurable (base plus variable) last year before the onset of disability. Base earnings are base earnings. pay up to 650 pounds a month. Lump-sum award: One month’s base earnings for each year of The minimum base pension is 20 pounds a month. paid contributions. The maximum base pension is 500 pounds a month. The minimum benefit is 10 months’ base earnings. Variable pension: 80% of average monthly variable earnings Benefits are split among eligible survivors according to the during the total contribution period. Variable earnings are base schedule in law: a widow of any age, a disabled widower, pay over 650 pounds a month, plus certain other forms of dependent sons and brothers younger than age 21 (age 26 if a compensation, including bonuses, incentives, commissions, student, no limit if disabled), unmarried daughters and sisters, and profit shares. and dependent parents. If combined with the old-age pension, disability pension, or All survivor pensions may be taken as a lump sum. survivor pension, the work injury permanent disability pension Death grant: Equal to 3 months of the deceased’s (base plus must not exceed 100% of average monthly insured (base plus variable) pension. variable) earnings during the year before the onset of disability. Funeral grant: Equal to 2 months’ (base plus variable) pension. The minimum grant is 200 pounds. Constant-attendance allowance: Equal to 20% of the pension. Partial disability: If assessed as at least 35% disabled but less than 100% disabled, a percentage of the full (base plus Administrative Organization variable) pension according to the assessed degree of Ministry of Insurance and Social Affairs (http:// disability. If the degree of disability is less than 35%, a lump www.misaegy.com) provides general supervision. sum based on 48 months’ pension according to the assessed National Organization for Social Insurance for the Private and degree of disability. Public Sector Fund and the Social Insurance Government Lump-sum award: One month’s base earnings for each year of Sector Fund administer contributions and cash benefits. paid contributions. Health Insurance Organization administers medical benefits The minimum benefit is 10 months’ base earnings. through its hospitals. Supplementary compensation: Equal to 18 times the total reference monthly (base plus variable) earnings used for Unemployment purpose of calculating the survivor pension times an age coefficient. Regulatory Framework Benefit adjustment: Pensions are increased by 5% after each 5- First law: 1959. year period of continuous disability, up to age 60. Current law: 1975 (social security). Type of program: Social insurance system. SSPTW: Africa, 2005 ♦ 75 Egypt Coverage Employed persons in the public and private sectors. Exclusions: Temporary, seasonal, and casual workers; domestic servants; family labor; civil servants; employees older than age 60; the self-employed; and artisans. Source of Funds Insured person: None. Self-employed person: Not applicable. Employer: 2% of gross payroll. Government: Any deficit. Qualifying Conditions Unemployment benefit: Six months of contributions, including the 3 consecutive months before unemployment. The insured must be able and willing to work and registered with, and reporting regularly to, the manpower office. Unemployment is not the result of voluntary leaving, misconduct, or the refusal of training or a suitable job offer. Unemployment Benefits 60% of the last monthly wage is payable after a 7-day waiting period for up to 16 weeks; may be extended to 28 weeks if contributions have been paid for the last 24 months. Administrative Organization Ministry of Insurance and Social Affairs (http:// www.misaegy.com) provides general supervision. National Organization for Social Insurance for the Private and Public Sector Fund administers the program. 76 ♦ SSPTW: Africa, 2005 Equatorial Guinea The maximum pension is 80% of the insured’s average monthly Equatorial Guinea earnings. Exchange rate: US$1.00 equals Benefit adjustment: Benefits are adjusted every 5 years. 493.54 CFA francs. Permanent Disability Benefits Old Age, Disability, and Survivors Disability pension: For a total disability, the pension is equal to 40% of the insured’s average monthly earnings in the last Regulatory Framework 2 years. 1947. Constant-attendance allowance: Equal to 40% of the insured’sFirst law: average monthly earnings in the last 2 years. Current law: 1984, implemented in 1990. Partial disability: If unable to perform usual work, 40% of the Type of program: Social insurance system. insured’s average monthly earnings in the last 2 years is payable for a maximum of 6 months. Coverage Benefit adjustment: Benefits are adjusted every 5 years. Employees, including civil servants and military personnel. Survivor Benefits Source of Funds Survivor pension: The pension is equal to 40% of the Insured person: 4.5% of gross earnings. deceased’s average earnings; if the deceased was a pensioner, the survivor pension is 80% of the deceased’s pension. Self-employed person: Not applicable. The pension ceases on remarriage. Employer: 21.5% of gross payroll. A childless widow younger than age 30 receives a pension for Government: At least 25% of annual social security receipts. 24 months only. All of the above contributions also finance sickness and Orphan’s pension: The total combined pension for all maternity benefits, work injury benefits, and family allowances, orphans is equal to 20% of the deceased’s earnings; 40% for below. full orphans and for half-orphans if the widow’s pension ceases. Qualifying Conditions Dependent parent’s pension (in the absence of other Old-age pension: Age 60 with 120 months of contributions, survivors): The pension is equal to 40% of the deceased’s including 60 months in the 10 years before retirement. earnings; if the deceased was a pensioner, the benefit is 80% of the deceased’s pension. The required contribution period is reduced for public officials and military personnel who were between ages 50 and 60 when Benefit adjustment: Benefits are adjusted every 5 years. the law was implemented. Funeral grant: Equal to 2 months of the deceased’s earnings. Disability pension: A substantial inability to perform all types of work or a total inability to perform usual work with Administrative Organization 60 consecutive months of contributions immediately before the onset of disability. Ministry of Labor, Social Security, and Women’s Welfare provides supervision. Survivor pension: The deceased had 60 months of contributions or was a pensioner at the time of death. Social Security Institute administers the program. Eligible survivors are a widow aged 30 or older or of any age if disabled or rearing children, a dependent widower, and children Sickness and Maternity up to age 14 (no limit if a student or disabled). In the absence of other survivors, dependent parents including the spouse’s Regulatory Framework parents aged 60 or older or disabled. First law: 1947. Funeral allowance: Payable for the death of the insured. Current law: 1984, implemented in 1990. Type of program: Social insurance system. Old-Age Benefits Old-age pension: The pension is equal to 40% of the Coverage insured’s average monthly earnings in the last 2 years, plus 2% for each year of contributions beyond 10 years. Employees, including civil servants, military personnel, the insured’s family members, pensioners, and the disabled. SSPTW: Africa, 2005 ♦ 77 Equatorial Guinea Source of Funds Work Injury Insured person: See source of funds under Old Age, Disability, and Survivors, above. Regulatory Framework Self-employed person: Not applicable. First law: 1947. Employer: See source of funds under Old Age, Disability, and Current law: 1984, implemented in 1990. Survivors, above. Type of program: Social insurance system. Government: See source of funds under Old Age, Disability, and Survivors, above. Coverage Employees, including civil servants and military personnel. Qualifying Conditions Cash sickness and maternity benefits: Must have Source of Funds contributed during the last 12 months. Insured person: See source of funds under Old Age, Medical benefits: There is no minimum qualifying period. Disability, and Survivors, above. Self-employed person: Not applicable. Sickness and Maternity Benefits Employer: See source of funds under Old Age, Disability, and Sickness benefit: The benefit is equal to 50% of the Survivors, above. insured’s daily earnings. The benefit is payable after a 3-day waiting period for a maximum of 26 weeks; may be extended Government: See source of funds under Old Age, Disability, under certain conditions. and Survivors, above. Maternity benefit: The benefit is equal to 75% of the insured’s daily earnings. The benefit is paid for 6 weeks before Qualifying Conditions and 6 weeks after the expected date of childbirth. Work injury benefits: There is no minimum qualifying period. A lump sum equal to 2 months’ wages is paid if the insured does not meet the contributions qualifying condition for the Temporary Disability Benefits maternity benefit. The benefit is equal to 50% of the insured’s daily earnings. The benefit is payable after a 3-day waiting period for a Workers’ Medical Benefits maximum of 26 weeks; may be extended under certain Benefits include medical care for up to 26 weeks, according to conditions. the schedule in law. Cost sharing: The insured pays 50% of the cost of medicine; Permanent Disability Benefits medicines during hospitalization, pregnancy, and the postnatal Permanent disability pension: If totally disabled and period are free. incapable of any work, the pension is equal to 50% of Hospitalization is free. earnings; the pension is limited to 48 months if the insured is capable of alternative work. Dependents’ Medical Benefits Partial disability: The pension is equal to 50% of the base salary; the pension is limited to 24 months if the insured is Benefits include medical care for up to 26 weeks, according to capable of alternative work. the schedule in law. Constant-attendance allowance: Equal to 50% of earnings. Cost sharing: The insured pays 50% of the cost of medicine for dependents; medicines during hospitalization, pregnancy, The work injury permanent disability pension cannot be paid and the postnatal period for dependents are free. with the old-age pension. Hospitalization is free. Benefit adjustment: Benefits are adjusted every 5 years. Administrative Organization Workers’ Medical Benefits Ministry of Labor, Social Security, and Women’s Welfare Benefits include free medical care, hospitalization, and provides supervision. medicines. Social Security Institute administers the system. Survivor Benefits Survivor pension: 50% of the deceased’s earnings are payable to a widow(er); if the deceased was a pensioner, the 78 ♦ SSPTW: Africa, 2005 Equatorial Guinea survivor pension is 80% of the deceased’s pension. The Qualifying Conditions pension ceases on remarriage. Family allowances: The insured must be married, a widow Eligible survivors are a widow aged 30 or older (of any age if with children, or single with natural children. Dependent disabled or rearing children) and a dependent widower. relatives who are younger than age 14, a student, or disabled A childless widow younger than age 30 receives a pension for may also qualify. 24 months only. Orphan’s pension: The total combined pension for all Family Allowance Benefits orphans is equal to 20% of the deceased’s earnings; 40% for full orphans and for half-orphans if the widow’s pension Family allowances: Benefits are determined according to a ceases. family point system set by regulation. Eligible orphans are children up to age 14 (no limit if a student or disabled). Administrative Organization Dependent parent’s pension (in the absence of other Ministry of Labor, Social Security, and Women’s Welfare survivors): The pension is equal to 40% of the deceased’s provides supervision. earnings; if the deceased was a pensioner, the pension is 80% Social Security Institute administers the program through the of the deceased’s pension. Family Fund. Eligible parents include the spouse’s parents aged 60 or older or disabled. Benefit adjustment: Benefits are adjusted every 5 years. Funeral grant: Equal to 2 months of the deceased’s earnings. Administrative Organization Ministry of Labor, Social Security, and Women’s Welfare provides supervision. Social Security Institute administers the program. Family Allowances Regulatory Framework First law: 1950. Current law: 1984, implemented in 1990. Type of program: Social insurance system. Coverage Employees, including civil servants and military personnel. Source of Funds Insured person: See source of funds under Old Age, Disability, and Survivors, above. Self-employed person: Not applicable. Employer: See source of funds under Old Age, Disability, and Survivors, above. Government: See source of funds under Old Age, Disability, and Survivors, above. SSPTW: Africa, 2005 ♦ 79 Ethiopia Old-Age Benefits Ethiopia Old-age pension: 30% of the average monthly basic salary Exchange rate: US$1.00 equals 8.65 birr. during the last 3 years before retirement, plus 1.125% (civilian) or 1.5% (military) of the average monthly basic salary for each year of service beyond 10 years. Old Age, Disability, and Survivors The minimum monthly pension is 100 birr. The maximum monthly pension is 70% of the average monthly Regulatory Framework basic salary. First and current law: 1963 (public employees), with 1974, Early pension: 30% of the insured’s average monthly basic 1975, 1996, 1999, and 2003 amendments. salary during the last 3 years before retirement, plus 1.125% (civilian) or 1.5% (military) of the average monthly basic salary Type of program: Social insurance system. for each year of service beyond 10 years. Benefit adjustment: The Council of Ministers may adjust Coverage pensions every 5 years. Public-sector employees only, including military and police Old-age settlement: A lump sum equal to the basic salary in personnel and employees of government-owned enterprises. the month before retirement times the number of years of service. Source of Funds 4% of basic salary. Permanent Disability BenefitsInsured person: Self-employed person: Not applicable. Disability pension: The pension is equal to 30% of the average monthly basic salary during the last 3 years, plus Employer: 6% (civilian) or 16% (military) of payroll. 1.125% (civilian) or 1.5% (military) of the average monthly Government: None, except as an employer. basic salary for each year of service beyond 10 years. All of the above contributions also finance work injury The maximum monthly pension is 70% of the insured’s average benefits. basic salary. Benefit adjustment: The Council of Ministers may adjust Qualifying Conditions pensions every 5 years. Old-age pension: Age 60 with at least 10 years of service and Disability settlement: A lump sum equal to the basic salary in contributions. the month before the onset of disability times the number of years of service. Early pension: Age 55 with at least 25 years of contributions (civilian personnel); aged 45 to 54 (depending on rank) with at least 10 years of contributions (military personnel). Survivor Benefits Old-age settlement: Age 60 and does not meet the qualifying Survivor pension: 50% of the deceased’s monthly pension is conditions for the old-age pension. payable to the widow(er). Disability pension: Incapable of normal gainful employment The pension ceases on remarriage. with at least 10 years of service and contributions. Orphan’s pension: 20% of the deceased’s pension each; 30% Disability settlement: Incapable of normal gainful each for full orphans. employment with less than 10 years of service and Dependent parent’s pension: 15% of the deceased’s contributions. pension; 20% in the absence of other eligible survivors. Survivor pension: The deceased met the contribution Survivor settlement: A lump sum is paid to each eligible conditions for the old-age pension or was a pensioner at the survivor. The lump sum is calculated using the percentage time of death. rates used to calculate the survivor pension or orphan’s Eligible survivors are the widow(er), children younger than pension. age 18, and dependent parents. Benefit adjustment: The Council of Ministers may adjust Survivor settlement: Payable if the deceased had less than pensions every 5 years. 10 years of service and contributions and was not eligible for a pension. Administrative Organization Eligible survivors are the widow(er) and children younger than age 18. Office of the Prime Minister provides general supervision. Managed by a board and general manager, the Social Security Authority administers the program. 80 ♦ SSPTW: Africa, 2005 Ethiopia Sickness and Maternity If the disability pension is less than or equal to the insured’s entitlement under the old-age pension, then the old-age Regulatory Framework pension is paid up to a maximum of 70% of the insured’s monthly basic salary. No statutory benefits are provided. Benefit adjustment: The Council of Ministers may adjust The labor proclamation (2003) and the public service benefits every 5 years. amendment proclamation (2002) require employers to provide paid sick leave for up to 3 months: 100% of earnings is paid for the first month; thereafter, 50% of earnings. Workers’ Medical Benefits The labor proclamation (2003) and the public service No information is available. amendment proclamation (2002) require employers to provide paid maternity leave for up to 45 days after childbirth; Survivor Benefits thereafter, paid sick leave may be paid in case of complications. Survivor pension: 50% of the deceased’s pension is payable to the widow(er). Work Injury The pension ceases on remarriage. Regulatory Framework Orphan’s pension: 20% of the deceased’s pension each; 30% each for full orphans. First and current law: 1963 (public employees), with 2003 amendment. Dependent parent’s pension: 15% of the deceased’s pension; 20% in the absence of other eligible survivors. Type of program: Social insurance system. Benefit adjustment: The Council of Ministers may adjust The labor proclamation (2003) allows for the provision of pensions every 5 years. private insurance for public-sector employees. Administrative Organization Coverage Office of the Prime Minister provides general supervision. Public-sector employees only, including military and police personnel and employees of government-owned enterprises. Managed by a board and general manager, the Social Security Authority administers the program. Source of Funds Insured person: See source of funds under Old Age, Disability, and Survivors, above. Self-employed person: Not applicable. Employer: See source of funds under Old Age, Disability, and Survivors, above. Government: See source of funds under Old Age, Disability, and Survivors, above. Qualifying Conditions Work injury benefits: There is no minimum qualifying period. Temporary Disability Benefits A lump sum equal to 45% of the monthly basic salary multiplied by 5 years times the assessed degree of disability. Benefit adjustment: The Council of Ministers may adjust benefits every 5 years. Permanent Disability Benefits Permanent disability pension: From 45% to 70% of the insured’s monthly basic salary, according to the assessed degree of disability. SSPTW: Africa, 2005 ♦ 81 Gabon Old-age settlement: At the normal retirement age, the insured Gabon is ineligible for the old-age pension. Exchange rate: US$1.00 equals Disability pension: A loss of 2/3 earning capacity with 5 years 493.54 CFA francs. of insurance coverage including 30 months of contributions in the 5 years before the onset of disability. The qualifying conditions are waived for currently employed workers who are Note: This information is from 1997. disabled as the result of a nonoccupational accident. Survivor pension: The deceased had 120 months of Old Age, Disability, and Survivors contributions, met the contribution conditions for a pension, or was a pensioner at the time of death. Regulatory Framework Survivor settlement: The deceased was ineligible for an old- age or disability pension. First law: 1963. Eligible survivors are a nonworking or disabled widow or a Current laws: 1975 and 1976. dependent disabled widower and children younger than age 16 Type of program: Social insurance system. (age 17 if an apprentice, age 20 if a student or disabled). Coverage Old-Age Benefits Employed persons. Old-age pension: The pension is equal to 40% of the Special systems for civil servants, military personnel, the self- insured’s average monthly earnings in the last 3 or 5 years employed, and state contract workers. (whichever is higher) before retirement, plus 1% of earnings for each 12-month period of contributions beyond 240 months. Source of Funds The minimum pension is 85% of the legal minimum wage. 2.5% of gross earnings. The maximum pension is 85% of the insured’s average earningsInsured person: used to calculate the pension. The minimum monthly earnings for contribution and benefit purposes are equal to the legal minimum wage. Benefits are paid quarterly. The maximum monthly earnings for contribution and benefit Benefit adjustment: Benefits are adjusted by ministerial decree purposes are 1,500,000 CFA francs. according to changes in the cost of living and the legalminimum wage, depending on the financial resources of the The first 20,000 CFA francs of declared earnings are exempt system. from contributions. Old-age settlement: A lump sum equal to 50% of the Self-employed person: Not applicable. insured’s average monthly earnings for each 6-month period of Employer: 5% of gross payroll. contributions. The minimum monthly earnings for contribution and benefit purposes are equal to the legal minimum wage. Permanent Disability Benefits The maximum monthly earnings for contribution and benefit Disability pension: The pension is equal to 60% of the old- purposes are 1,500,000 CFA francs. age pension that the insured would have been entitled to if he The first 20,000 CFA francs of declared earnings are exempt or she had worked until age 55. The disability pension is from contributions. replaced by an old-age pension of the same amount at retirement age. Government: None. The minimum pension is 60% of the highest minimum wage. Qualifying Conditions If assessed as 100% disabled, the pension is paid monthly; otherwise, pensions are paid quarterly. If assessed as at least Old-age pension: Age 55; age 50 if prematurely aged, with 75% disabled, the insured can request a monthly payment. 20 years of insurance coverage including 120 months of contributions during the last 20 years. Retirement from paid Benefit adjustment: Benefits are adjusted by ministerial decree employment is necessary. according to changes in the cost of living and the legalminimum wage, depending on the financial resources of the The pension is payable abroad only if there is a reciprocal system. agreement. Foreign workers who permanently leave the country may have Survivor Benefits their contributions reimbursed. Survivor pension: The pension is equal to 50% of the deceased’s old-age pension. 82 ♦ SSPTW: Africa, 2005 Gabon If there is more than one widow, the pension is split equally The maximum monthly earnings for contribution and benefit among them. purposes are 1,500,000 CFA francs. A widow who has at least one child and is ineligible for the The first 20,000 CFA francs of declared earnings are exempt widow’s pension receives 35% of the deceased’s old-age from contributions. pension. Government: None. Orphan’s pension: Each receives 20% of the deceased’s pension; 35% for each full orphan. Qualifying Conditions The total survivor pension must not exceed 85% of the deceased’s pension. Cash sickness benefits: No statutory benefits are provided. (The 1962 labor code requires employers to provide paid sick Pensions are paid quarterly. leave.) Benefit adjustment: Benefits are adjusted by ministerial decree Cash maternity benefits: Women in insured employment for according to changes in the cost of living and the legal at least 4 months. minimum wage, depending on the financial resources of the system. Medical benefits: There is no minimum qualifying period. Survivor settlement: A lump sum equal to 100% of the deceased’s monthly old-age pension is paid for each 6-month Sickness and Maternity Benefits period of contributions. Sickness benefit: No statutory benefits are provided. (The 1962 labor code requires employers to provide paid sick leave.) Administrative Organization Maternity benefit: The benefit is equal to 50% of the Ministry of Social Affairs and National Solidarity provides insured’s last monthly earnings. The benefit is payable for up general supervision. to 6 weeks before and 8 weeks (10 weeks in the case of multiple childbirths, 11 weeks in the case of complications) after the National Social Security Fund administers contributions and expected date of childbirth. benefits. Workers’ Medical Benefits Sickness and Maternity Benefits include hospitalization, inpatient and outpatient Regulatory Framework treatment, and medicines. Medical services are provided by hospitals and dispensaries First law: 1952. operated by the National Social Security Fund and by other Current laws: 1975 (maternity) and 1976 (medicines). participating establishments. Type of program: Social insurance system. Maternity and The 1962 labor code requires employers to provide certain medical benefits only. medical services. Maternity medical care is free. Coverage Cost sharing: The insured contributes 1,500 CFA francs for Cash sickness benefits: No statutory benefits are provided. each consultation with a doctor and 15% to 20% of the cost of hospitalization according to the insured’s income (insured Cash maternity benefits: Employed women. persons with income less than the legal minimum wage are Medical benefits: Employed persons and their dependents. exempt). Special systems for civil servants, military personnel, the self- employed, and state contract workers. Dependents’ Medical Benefits No statutory benefits are provided. (Some maternity and child Source of Funds health and welfare services are provided under Family Insured person: None. Allowances, below.) Self-employed person: Not applicable. 2% of gross payroll for medicines, 1.5% for Administrative OrganizationEmployer: hospitalization, and 0.6% for medical examinations. (Cash Ministry of Social Affairs and National Solidarity provides maternity benefits are financed by employer contributions general supervision. made under Family Allowances, below.) National Social Security Fund administers the program. The minimum monthly earnings for contribution and benefit purposes are equal to the legal minimum wage. SSPTW: Africa, 2005 ♦ 83 Gabon Work Injury otherwise, pensions are paid quarterly. If assessed as at least 75% disabled, the insured can request a monthly payment. Regulatory Framework Benefit adjustment: Benefits are adjusted by ministerial decree First law: 1935. according to changes in the cost of living and the legal minimum wage, depending on the financial resources of the Current law: 1975. system. Type of program: Social insurance system. Workers’ Medical Benefits Coverage Benefits include medical, dental, and surgical care; Employed persons, including members of cooperatives, hospitalization; medicines; appliances; laboratory services; apprentices, and students; certain categories of self-employed X-rays; rehabilitation; and transportation. persons; and convicted persons working in prison workshops. Special systems for civil servants, military personnel, the self- Survivor Benefits employed, and state contract workers. Survivor pension: The pension is equal to 50% of the deceased’s earnings. The pension is payable to a widow(er). Source of Funds A widow who has at least one child and is ineligible for the Insured person: None. widow’s pension receives 35% of the deceased’s pension. Self-employed person: Not applicable. Orphan’s pension: Each receives 20% of the deceased’s Employer: 3% of gross payroll. earnings; 35% for each full orphan. The minimum monthly earnings for contribution and benefit Dependent parent’s and grandparent’s pension: Each purposes are equal to the legal minimum wage. receives 10% of the deceased’s earnings. The maximum monthly earnings for contribution and benefit The total survivor pension must not exceed 85% of the purposes are 1,500,000 CFA francs. deceased’s earnings. The first 20,000 CFA francs of declared earnings are exempt Survivor settlement: In the absence of survivors eligible for from contributions. a pension, a lump sum equal to 6 months of the deceased’s earnings is payable to the nearest relative. Government: None. Funeral grant: A lump sum covering the cost of the burial is payable, up to a maximum of 8 times the deceased’s average Qualifying Conditions monthly earnings. Work injury benefits: There is no minimum qualifying period. Accidents that occur while commuting to and from work are Administrative Organization covered. Ministry of Social Affairs and National Solidarity provides general supervision. Temporary Disability Benefits National Social Security Fund administers the program. The benefit is equal to 100% of the insured’s daily earnings in the 30 days before the onset of disability. The benefit is Family Allowances payable from the day after the onset of disability until full recovery or certification of permanent disability. Regulatory Framework Permanent Disability Benefits First law: 1956. Permanent disability pension: For a total disability, the Current law: 1975. pension is equal to 100% of average earnings. Type of program: Employment-related system. Partial disability: The pension is equal to average earnings multiplied by 0.5 times the assessed degree of disability for the Coverage portion of disability between 10% and 50% and by 1.5 times Employed persons with children and old-age pensioners caring the assessed degree of disability for the portion above 50%. A for a child who was born before the pensioner retired. lump sum is payable for an assessed degree of disability of 10% or less. Special systems for civil servants, military personnel, the self- employed, and state contract workers. Constant-attendance allowance: Equal to 40% of the pension. If assessed as 100% disabled, the pension is paid monthly; 84 ♦ SSPTW: Africa, 2005 Gabon Source of Funds Insured person: None. Self-employed person: Not applicable. Employer: 8% of gross payroll. (The employer contributions also finance cash maternity benefits under Sickness and Maternity, above.) The minimum monthly earnings for contribution and benefit purposes are equal to the legal minimum wage. The maximum monthly earnings for contribution and benefit purposes are 1,500,000 CFA francs. The first 20,000 CFA francs of declared earnings are exempt from contributions. Government: None. Qualifying Conditions Family allowances: The child must be younger than age 16 (age 17 if an apprentice, age 20 if a student or disabled). The parent must have had 4 consecutive months of employment and be currently working 20 days a month or be an old-age pensioner or an unmarried widow of a former beneficiary. School allowances: Payable to dependent primary, secondary, or technical school students. Prenatal allowance: Must undergo prescribed medical examinations. Birth grant: Must undergo prescribed medical examinations. Family Allowance Benefits Family allowances: 3,000 CFA francs a month for each child. School allowances: 10,000 CFA francs a year to dependent primary, secondary, or technical school students. Prenatal allowance: 13,500 CFA francs. The allowance is paid in two installments. Birth grant: A lump sum of 8,000 CFA francs for each birth and 45,000 CFA francs for the purchase of clothing and other necessities (layette) for a newborn child. Some maternity and child health and welfare services are also provided. Administrative Organization Ministry of Social Affairs and National Solidarity provides general supervision. National Social Security Fund administers the program. SSPTW: Africa, 2005 ♦ 85 Gambia Old-age benefit (provident fund): Age 55; voluntary retirement Gambia from age 45 with at least 5 years of contributions and after2 years of unemployment. Benefits are payable to women who Exchange rate: US$1.00 equals 29 dalasi. leave employment to marry. Deferred retirement (provident fund): If agreed by the Social Security and Housing Finance Corporation and the employer, Old Age, Disability, and Survivors contributions can be paid to age 60. Regulatory Framework Disability pension Disability pension (pension scheme): Incapacity for work due First law: 1981 (provident fund), implemented in 1982. to a disability and with at least 10 years of contributions. The Current law: 1987 (pension scheme). medical board assesses the disability. Type of program: Social insurance and provident fund Disability settlement (pension scheme): Incapacity for work system. due to a disability. Payable with a minimum of 5 years but less than 10 years of contributions. Coverage Disability benefit (provident fund): Incapacity for work due to Employees aged 18 to 54 in the private sector. a disability. The medical board assesses the disability.Provident fund: Pension scheme: Employees aged 20 to 54 in quasi- Survivor pension government institutions and in participating private Survivor pension (pension scheme): The deceased qualified companies. for a pension. The lump sum is paid to named survivors and Exclusions: Casual workers. eligible orphans. Special system for civil servants covered by the 1950 Pensions Survivor benefit (provident fund): The death of the fund Act and armed forces personnel. member before retirement. The lump sum is paid to named survivors and eligible orphans. Source of Funds Old-Age Benefits Insured person Pension scheme: None. Old-age pension Provident fund: 5% of basic salary. Old-age pension (pension scheme): An annuity is purchased with 75% of the total employee and employer contributions, Self-employed person and the remaining 25% is paid as a lump sum. Pension scheme: Not applicable. Early pension (pension scheme): The early pension is Not applicable. calculated in the same way as the old-age pension but with aProvident fund: reduction based on age at the date of retirement. Employer Old-age settlement (pension scheme): A lump sum is paid. Pension scheme: 19% of payroll. Old-age benefit (provident fund): A lump sum equal to total Provident fund: 10% of basic salary. employer and employee contributions, plus accrued interest. Deferred old-age benefit (provident fund): A lump sum equal Government to total employer and employee contributions, plus accrued Pension scheme: None. interest. Provident fund: None. Permanent Disability Benefits Qualifying Conditions Disability pension Old-age pension Disability pension (pension scheme): An annuity is Old-age pension (pension scheme): Age 55 with at least purchased with 75% of the total employee and employer 10 years of contributions. contributions and the remaining 25% is paid as a lump sum. The total amount may be paid as a lump sum if the insured is Early pension (pension scheme): From age 45 with at least seriously ill. 10 years of contributions; if the insured retires before age 45 with at least 5 years of contributions, the pension is withheld Disability settlement (pension scheme): A lump sum is paid. until age 45 (except in cases when the insured is laid-off). Disability benefit (provident fund): A lump sum equal to total Old-age settlement (pension scheme): Payable with a employer and employee contributions, plus accrued interest. minimum of 5 years but less than 10 years of contributions. 86 ♦ SSPTW: Africa, 2005 Gambia Partial disability (provident fund): Up to a maximum of 50% of Temporary Disability Benefits the full disability benefit, according to the assessed degree of disability. Further payments are based on an assessment of The monthly benefit is equal to 60% of the insured’s earnings. the disability by the medical board. The benefit is payable for a maximum of 6 months. The maximum monthly earnings for benefit calculation Survivor Benefits purposes are 1,500 dalasi. Partial disability: A reduced pension is payable (normally 60% Survivor pension of the difference between earnings before and after the onset Survivor pension (pension scheme): A lump sum equal to of disability). Benefits are payable until recovery or twice the deceased’s annual salary is payable if the deceased certification of permanent disability after 12 months. was still contributing, irrespective of the number of A lump sum is payable if the insured is living abroad. contributions; a lump sum based on the value of the accrued pension if the deceased had opted to take an early pension; or the remaining balance of the pension if the deceased was a Permanent Disability Benefits pensioner. Permanent disability pension: For a total disability, a Survivor benefit (provident fund): A lump sum equal to total monthly pension equal to 60% of the insured’s earnings. employer and employee contributions, plus accrued interest. The minimum monthly benefit is 100 dalasi. The maximum monthly earnings for benefit calculation Administrative Organization purposes are 1,500 dalasi. Social Security and Housing Finance Corporation (http:// Partial disability: For an assessed degree of disability of 20% www.sshfc.gm) administers the pension scheme and the or more, a reduced pension is paid; for an assessed disability provident fund. of less than 20%, a lump sum is paid. Constant-attendance allowance: Equal to 25% of the Work Injury permanent disability pension. Regulatory Framework Workers’ Medical Benefits First law: 1940 (workmen’s compensation). Benefits include medical, surgical, hospital, and nursing care; Current law: 1990 (injuries compensation), implemented in and medicines. 1996. The Injuries Compensation Fund pays 75% of the cost and the Type of program: Employer-liability system. employer pays 25%. Coverage Survivor Benefits Employed persons in government and public enterprises, local Survivor benefit: A lump sum equal to 120 months of the government authorities, and the private sector. deceased’s earnings is payable to survivors who were fully Exclusions: Armed forces personnel, casual workers, domestic dependent on the insured; a reduced benefit is paid to workers, and family members living in the employer’s home. survivors who were only partially dependent. The minimum survivor benefit is 100,000 dalasi. Source of Funds The maximum survivor benefit is 180,000 dalasi. Insured person: None. The maximum monthly earnings for benefit calculation purposes are 1,500 dalasi. Self-employed person: Not applicable. Funeral grant: If there are no surviving dependents, burial Employer: 1% of payroll. expenses are payable up to a maximum of 1,000 dalasi. The maximum monthly earnings for contribution purposes are 1,500 dalasi. Administrative Organization Government: None; contributes as an employer for civil servants. Social Security and Housing Finance Corporation (http:// www.sshfc.gm) enforces the law. Qualifying Conditions Injuries Compensation Fund administers the program. Work injury benefits: There is no minimum qualifying period, but the incapacity must last at least 5 consecutive days. SSPTW: Africa, 2005 ♦ 87 Ghana Eligible survivors are dependents designated by the insured. Ghana Pensions are not payable abroad. Exchange rate: US$1.00 equals 9,020 cedi. Old-Age Benefits Old-age pension: The minimum pension is 50% of the Old Age, Disability, and Survivors insured’s average annual salary in the 3 best years of earnings. The pension is increased by 1.5% for each 12-month period or Regulatory Framework 0.125% for each month of contributions beyond 240 months. First law: 1965. The minimum pension is 125,000 cedi a month. Current law: 1991 (social security). The maximum pension must not exceed 80% of average earnings of the top 5% of contributing members. Type of program: Social insurance system. The insured may opt to take 25% of the present value of the pension as a lump sum. Coverage Early pension: A percentage of the full pension (from 60% to Employed persons. 90%) depending on the insured’s age at retirement. Voluntary coverage for the self-employed; nonemployed Benefit adjustment: Pensions are reviewed annually on the formerly insured persons may contribute voluntarily as if self- basis of the average increase in the salaries of contributors to employed. the scheme. Special system for armed forces personnel. Old-age grant: A lump sum equal to the value of total contributions, plus interest set at 50% of the prevailing Source of Funds government treasury rate. Insured person: 5% of earnings. Permanent Disability Benefits Self-employed person: 17.5% of income. Disability pension: The minimum pension is 50% of the Employer: 12.5% of payroll. insured’s average annual salary in the 3 best years of earnings. Of the total 17.5% contribution, 2.5% finances medical benefits The pension is increased by 1.5% for each 12-month period or under Sickness and Maternity, below. by 0.125% for each month of contributions beyond Government: None. 240 months. Benefit adjustment: Pensions are reviewed annually on the Qualifying Conditions basis of the average increase in the salaries of contributors to the scheme. Old-age pension: Age 60 (ages 55 to 59 for underground mine Disability grant: A lump sum equal to total contributions plus workers, steel mill workers, and employees working in other interest. types of hazardous employment) with at least 240 months of contributions. Early pension: A reduced pension is payable from ages 55 to Survivor Benefits 59. If the insured was a pensioner at the time of death, a lump sum Pensions are not payable abroad. is paid calculated on the present value of the pension that would have been received after the date of death until age 72. Old-age grant: Payable to insured persons at the normal If the insured was not a pensioner but had 240 months of retirement age with less than 240 months of contributions. contributions, a lump sum is paid equal to the present value of Disability pension: Permanently disabled with 12 months of 12 years’ pension; with less than 240 months of contributions, contributions in the last 36 months and incapable of any the lump sum is reduced according to the number of months of gainful employment. The disability must be certified by a contributions. qualified and recognized medical officer and the regional The present value of the pension is calculated using the medical board. prevailing treasury bill rate of interest. Pensions are not payable abroad. Benefit adjustment: Pensions are reviewed annually on the Disability grant: A lump sum is paid if the insured is ineligible basis of the average increase in the salaries of contributors to for the pension. the scheme. Survivor pension: Payable for the death of the insured before retirement or a pensioner younger than age 72. 88 ♦ SSPTW: Africa, 2005 Ghana Administrative Organization Administrative Organization Ministry of Finance and Economic Planning (http:// Social Security and National Insurance Trust (http:// www.ghana.gov.gh) provides general supervision. www.ssnit.org.gh) collects the contributions and transfers Social Security and National Insurance Trust (http:// them to the National Health Insurance program. www.ssnit.org.gh) administers the program through a tripartite management board. Work Injury Sickness and Maternity Regulatory Framework First law: 1940. Regulatory Framework Current law: 1987 (workmen’s compensation), with 1988 and First and current law: 2003 (health insurance), implemented 1994 amendments. in 2004. Type of program: Employer-liability system, normally Type of program: Social insurance system. Medical benefits involving insurance with a private carrier. only. Coverage Coverage Employed persons. All citizens. Exclusions: Armed forces personnel, casual workers, Exclusions: Armed forces and police personnel. employers’ family members, and agricultural employees working in enterprises with less than five workers. Source of Funds Insured person: See source of funds under Old Age, Source of Funds Disability, and Survivors, above (formal-sector employees); a Insured person: None. flat-rate contribution of 6,000 cedi a month (informal-sector Self-employed person: Not applicable. employees). Employer: Total cost, met through the direct provision of Self-employed person: See source of funds under Old Age, benefits or the payment of insurance premiums. Disability, and Survivors, above. Government: None. Employer: See source of funds under Old Age, Disability, and Survivors, above. Qualifying Conditions Government: The cost of benefits for the aged, the needy, and children up to age 18 provided that both parents have paid Work injury benefits: The minimum qualifying period is the annual contribution. 6 months. Qualifying Conditions Temporary Disability Benefits Cash sickness and maternity benefits: No statutory The benefit is equal to the difference between the insured’s benefits are provided. earnings before the onset of disability and the actual or Medical benefits: Resident in Ghana. potential earnings after the onset of disability. The benefit is payable after a 5-day waiting period for up to 24 months; may be extended by up to 6 months by the Chief Labor Officer. Sickness and Maternity Benefits The benefit may be paid periodically or as a lump sum or by a Sickness benefit: No benefits are provided. combination of these methods, depending on the estimated Maternity benefit: No benefits are provided. duration of the disability. Workers’ Medical Benefits Permanent Disability Benefits Medical benefits are provided under the National Health For a total disability, a lump sum equal to 96 months of the Insurance program. insured’s earnings. Constant-attendance supplement: Equal to 25% of the total Dependents’ Medical Benefits disability benefit. Partial disability: A percentage of the full lump sum according Medical benefits are provided under the National Health to the assessed degree of disability. Insurance program. SSPTW: Africa, 2005 ♦ 89 Ghana Workers’ Medical Benefits Benefits include medical, surgical, hospital, and nursing care and the cost of medicines and appliances up to specified amounts. Survivor Benefits Survivor benefit: A lump sum equal to 60 months of the insured’s earnings at the time of the work injury. The benefit is paid to the insured’s dependents at the court’s discretion; a reduced benefit is paid if the survivor was only partially dependent. Funeral grant: If there are no dependents, the employer pays for the funeral; if there are dependents, the employer pays for the funeral up to a maximum. Administrative Organization Ministry of Mobilization and Social Welfare (Labor Department) enforces the law. Employers may insure against liability with private insurance companies. 90 ♦ SSPTW: Africa, 2005 Guinea Old-age benefits are not payable abroad. Guinea Disability pension: A loss of 2/3 of working or earning capacity and ineligible for the early pension, with at least Exchange rate: US$1.00 equals 2,550 francs. 5 years of contributions (the contribution condition is waived for currently employed workers if the disability is the result of an accident). Old Age, Disability, and Survivors Pensions are not payable abroad. Regulatory Framework Survivor pension: The deceased was a pensioner or ininsured employment with 15 years of insurance coverage at the First law: 1958. time of death. Current law: 1994 (social security). Eligible survivors are widow(er)s who were married to the Type of program: Social insurance system. deceased for at least a year and orphans younger than age 17 (age 21 if a student or an apprentice). Coverage Funeral grant: In the absence of an eligible survivor, the grant is payable to the person who is responsible for the deceased’s Employed persons, including agricultural salaried workers and dependent children. domestic workers. Survivor benefits are not payable abroad. Exclusions: Self-employed persons. Special systems for civil servants and armed forces personnel. Old-Age Benefits Voluntary coverage for persons previously insured for at least Old-age pension: The pension is equal to 2% of the insured’s 6 consecutive months. average earnings in the last 3 or 5 years (whichever is higher) times the number of years of insurance coverage (some periods Source of Funds of incapacity are credited). Insured person: 2.5% of gross earnings. The minimum monthly earnings for benefit calculation purposes are 75,000 francs. The minimum monthly earnings for contribution and benefit purposes are equal to the legal minimum wage. The monthly The maximum monthly earnings for benefit calculation legal minimum wage is 75,000 francs. (The legal minimum wage purposes are 400,000 francs. was last adjusted in 1994.) The maximum number of years for benefit calculation purposes The maximum monthly earnings for contribution and benefit is 30. purposes are 400,000 francs. Early pension: The pension is reduced by between 5% and Self-employed person: Not applicable. 10% for each year that the pension is received before age 55. Employer: 4% of gross payroll. Pensions are paid quarterly. The minimum monthly earnings for contribution and benefit The combined receipt of the old-age pension with the work purposes are equal to the legal minimum wage. The monthly injury permanent disability pension is allowed. legal minimum wage is 75,000 francs. (The legal minimum wage Old-age allowance: The lump sum is equal to the insured’s was last adjusted in 1994.) average monthly earnings in the last 3 or 5 years (whichever is The maximum monthly earnings for contribution and benefit higher) times the number of years of insurance coverage. purposes are 400,000 francs. Benefit adjustment: Pensions are adjusted for changes in the Contributions are paid monthly by employers with 20 or more national average wage, depending on the financial resources of employees or quarterly by employers with 1 to 19 employees. the system. (The last adjustment was made in 1994.) Government: None; contributes as an employer for public- sector employees who are not civil servants. Permanent Disability Benefits Disability pension: For a total disability, the pension is equal Qualifying Conditions to 100% of the insured’s annual average earnings. Old-age pension: Age 55 (age 50 if unable to work) with Partial disability: The pension is equal to 40% of the insured’s 15 years of contributions. Retirement from gainful employment annual average earnings if the insured is able to partially is necessary. perform any suitable work. Early pension: Age 50. The minimum monthly earnings for benefit calculation purposes are 75,000 francs. Old-age allowance: Age 50 and ineligible for a pension, with at least 12 months’ insurance coverage. SSPTW: Africa, 2005 ♦ 91 Guinea The maximum monthly earnings for benefit calculation Source of Funds purposes are 400,000 francs. Insured person: 2.5% of gross earnings for sickness benefits Constant-attendance supplement: Equal to 20% of the only (maternity cash benefits are financed under Family insured’s pension. Allowances, below). The disability pension ceases at age 55 and is replaced by an The minimum monthly earnings for contribution and benefit old-age pension of the same value. purposes are 75,000 francs. Pensions are paid quarterly. The maximum monthly earnings for contribution and benefit Benefit adjustment: Pensions are adjusted for changes in the purposes are 400,000 francs. national average wage, depending on the financial resources of Self-employed person: Not applicable. the system. (The last adjustment was made in 1994.) Employer: 4% of gross payroll for sickness benefits only (maternity cash benefits are financed under Family Allowances, Survivor Benefits below). Survivor pension: 50% of the pension paid or accrued to the The minimum monthly earnings for contribution and benefit deceased is payable to the widow(er). If there is more than one purposes are 75,000 francs. widow, the pension is split equally among them. The maximum monthly earnings for contribution and benefit The pension ceases on remarriage or if cohabiting. purposes are 400,000 francs. Orphan’s pension: 10% of the pension paid or accrued to the Contributions are paid monthly by employers with 20 or more deceased is payable for each orphan; 20% for each full orphan. employees or quarterly by employers with 1 to 19 employees. Full orphans also receive the survivor pension. Government: None; contributes as an employer for public- The total survivor pension must not exceed 100% of the sector employees who are not civil servants. pension paid or accrued to the deceased; otherwise, the pensions are reduced proportionately. Qualifying Conditions Pensions are paid quarterly. Cash sickness and medical benefits: Three months of Benefit adjustment: Pensions are adjusted for changes in the insured employment with at least 18 days or 120 hours of work national average wage, depending on the financial resources of a month. the system. (The last adjustment was made in 1994.) Cash maternity benefits: The woman is in insured Funeral grant: A lump sum equal to 90 days of the deceased’s employment. average daily earnings but no greater than three times the deceased’s monthly earnings for contribution purposes. Sickness and Maternity Benefits Administrative Organization Sickness benefit: The daily benefit is equal to 50% of the insured’s average daily earnings in the last 3 months before the Ministry of Social Affairs, the Promotion of Women’s Interests, onset of disability. The benefit is payable after an 8-day and Childhood provides general supervision. waiting period for up to 13 weeks; may be extended to Managed by an administrative council, the National Social 26 weeks if the insured has at least 1 year of coverage with Security Fund administers the program. 250 days of employment during the last 12 months. (The labor code requires employer to pay full wages during the waiting Sickness and Maternity period.) The minimum monthly earnings for benefit calculation Regulatory Framework purposes are 75,000 francs. 1960. The maximum monthly earnings for benefit calculationFirst law: purposes are 400,000 francs. Current law: 1994 (social security). The maximum duration of benefits is 1 year for a permanent Type of program: Social insurance system. incapacity. Maternity benefit: The benefit is equal to 50% of the Coverage insured’s average earnings in the 3 months before the leave Employed persons, including agricultural salaried workers and period (the labor code requires the employer to also pay 50% domestic workers. of the insured’s average earnings). Exclusions: Self-employed persons. The minimum monthly earnings for benefit calculation purposes are 75,000 francs. Voluntary coverage for persons previously insured for at least 6 consecutive months. The maximum monthly earnings for benefit calculation purposes are 400,000 francs. 92 ♦ SSPTW: Africa, 2005 Guinea Workers’ Medical Benefits Source of Funds Medical service benefits are provided by doctors, hospitals, Insured person: None. and pharmacists paid directly by the National Social Security Self-employed person: Not applicable. Fund. Benefits include general, maternity, and specialist care; surgery; hospitalization for up to 2 years; medicines; Employer: 4% of gross payroll. appliances; laboratory services; and transportation. The minimum monthly earnings for contribution and benefit Benefits are provided after an 8-day waiting period during purposes are 75,000 francs. which the employer and the insured must share the medical The maximum monthly earnings for contribution and benefit care costs equally. purposes are 400,000 francs. Cost sharing: The National Social Security Fund reimburses Contributions are paid monthly by employers with 20 or more 70% of the cost of medicine; 100% for treatments for cancer, employees or quarterly by employers with 1 to 19 employees. cholera, smallpox, tetanus, and tuberculosis. Government: None; contributes as an employer for public- sector employees who are not civil servants. Dependents’ Medical Benefits Medical service benefits are provided by doctors, hospitals, Qualifying Conditions and pharmacists paid directly by the National Social Security Work injury benefits: There is no minimum qualifying period. Fund. Benefits include general, maternity, and specialist care; Accidents that occur while commuting to and from work are surgery; hospitalization for up to 2 years; medicines; covered. appliances; laboratory services; and transportation. Eligible dependents are the spouse and children younger than Temporary Disability Benefits age 17 (age 21 if a student or disabled). Benefits are provided after an 8-day waiting period during The daily benefit is equal to 50% of the insured’s average daily which the employer and the insured must share the medical earnings in the month before the onset of disability for the first care costs equally. 28 days; thereafter, 2/3 of earnings. The benefit is payable from the day after the onset of disability until full recovery or Cost sharing: The National Social Security Fund reimburses certification of permanent disability. 70% of the cost of medicine; 100% for treatments for cancer, cholera, smallpox, tetanus, and tuberculosis. The minimum monthly earnings for benefit calculation purposes are 75,000 francs. Administrative Organization The maximum monthly earnings for benefit calculationpurposes are 400,000 francs. Ministry of Social Affairs, the Promotion of Women’s Interests, Benefits are paid monthly. and Childhood provides general supervision. Benefit adjustment: The benefit may be adjusted if the Managed by an administrative council, the National Social incapacity lasts more than 1 month. Security Fund administers the program. Permanent Disability Benefits Work Injury Permanent disability pension: For a total disability, the Regulatory Framework pension is equal to 70% of the insured’s average earnings in the 12 months before the onset of disability. First law: 1932. The minimum monthly earnings for benefit calculation Current law: 1994 (social security). purposes are 75,000 francs. Type of program: Social insurance system. The maximum monthly earnings for benefit calculation purposes are 400,000 francs. Coverage Partial disability: A percentage of the full pension according to Employed persons, including agricultural salaried workers, the assessed degree of disability; the pension is paid as a lump domestic workers, apprentices, interns, and students at sum if the assessed degree of disability is 1% to 14%. technical schools. Pensions are paid quarterly. Exclusions: Self-employed persons. The combined receipt of the permanent disability pension with Special system for civil servants. the old-age pension is allowed. Benefit adjustment: The pensions are adjusted periodically. (The last adjustment was made in 1992.) SSPTW: Africa, 2005 ♦ 93 Guinea Workers’ Medical Benefits Special systems for civil servants and armed forces personnel. Benefits include medical and surgical care, hospitalization, medicines, appliances, rehabilitation, and transportation. Source of Funds Insured person: None. Survivor Benefits Self-employed person: Not applicable. Survivor pension: 30% of the deceased’s average earnings in Employer: 6% of gross payroll. the 12 months before the onset of the disability is payable to The minimum monthly earnings for contribution and benefit the widow(er) if the marriage took place before the onset of the purposes are 75,000 francs. deceased’s disability. If there is more than one widow, the pension is split equally among them. The maximum monthly earnings for contribution and benefit purposes are 400,000 francs. The pension ceases on remarriage or if cohabiting and a settlement is paid. Contributions are paid monthly by employers with 20 or more employees or quarterly by employers with 1 to 19 employees. Remarriage settlement: A lump sum equal to 3 years’ pension. The employer contributions also finance cash maternity The minimum monthly earnings for benefit calculation benefits under Sickness and Maternity, above. purposes are 75,000 francs. Government: None; contributes as an employer for public- The maximum monthly earnings for benefit calculation sector employees who are not civil servants. purposes are 400,000 francs. Orphan’s pension: 15% of the deceased’s earnings is payable to each orphan younger than age 17 (age 21 if a student); 20% Qualifying Conditions for each full orphan. Family allowances: The child must be younger than age 17. Dependent relative’s pension: 10% of the deceased’s The parent must have 3 months of insured employment with at earnings each, up to a maximum of 20%. least 18 days or 120 hours of work a month; a social insurance beneficiary. The total survivor pension must not exceed 85% of the deceased’s earnings; otherwise, the pensions are reduced proportionately. Family Allowance Benefits Pensions are paid quarterly. Family allowances: 1,500 francs a month for each child, up to Funeral grant: Funeral costs are reimbursed up to a maximum a maximum of 10 children. of 1/4 of the monthly legal minimum wage. The monthly legal Benefits are paid quarterly. minimum wage is 75,000 francs. Benefit adjustment: The benefits are adjusted periodically. Benefit adjustment: The pensions are adjusted periodically. (The last adjustment was made in 1992.) (The last adjustment was made in 1992.) Administrative Organization Administrative Organization Ministry of Social Affairs, the Promotion of Women’s Interests, Ministry of Social Affairs, the Promotion of Women’s Interests, and Childhood provides general supervision. and Childhood provides general supervision. Managed by an administrative council, the National Social Managed by an administrative council, the National Social Security Fund administers the program. Security Fund administers the program. Family Allowances Regulatory Framework First law: 1956. Current law: 1994 (social security). Type of program: Employment-related system. Coverage Employed persons, including agricultural salaried workers and domestic workers. Exclusions: Self-employed persons. 94 ♦ SSPTW: Africa, 2005 Kenya Permanent Disability Benefits Kenya A lump sum equal to total employee and employer Exchange rate: US$1.00 equals 81.15 shillings. contributions, plus interest. Survivor Benefits Old Age, Disability, and Survivors A lump sum equal to total employee and employer contributions, plus interest. Regulatory Framework First and current law: 1965 (social security fund), with 1966, Administrative Organization 1971, 1975, 1978, 1987, and 1997 amendments. Ministry of Labor and Human Resource Development (http:// Type of program: Provident fund system. www.labour.go.ke) provides general supervision through a board of trustees. Coverage National Social Security Fund administers the program. Employed persons, traders, the self-employed, and some workers in the informal sector, including farmers. Sickness and Maternity Voluntary coverage is possible. Regulatory Framework Exclusions: Some types of casual workers. Special pension system for public-sector employees. First and current law: 1965 (social security fund), with amendments. Source of Funds Type of program: Social insurance system. Medical benefitsonly. Insured person: 5% of monthly earnings; a maximum flat rate of 200 shillings a month for insured persons with monthly Coverage earnings greater than 4,000 shillings. Voluntary contributors pay between 100 shillings and 1,000 shillings. Employed persons and their dependents, including public- Self-employed person: 5% of monthly earnings. sector employees and the self-employed, earning at least 1,000 shillings a month. Employer: 5% of monthly payroll. Voluntary coverage for persons earning less than Government: None. 1,000 shillings a month. There are no minimum monthly earnings for contribution purposes. Source of Funds There are no maximum monthly earnings for contribution purposes. Insured person: A variable monthly contribution of30 shillings up to a maximum of 320 shillings; voluntary contributors pay a flat rate of 160 shillings a month. Qualifying Conditions Self-employed person: A variable monthly contribution of Old-age benefit: Age 55 and retired from insured employment. 30 shillings up to a maximum of 320 shillings; voluntary Drawdown payments: The benefit is payable at age 50 if not in contributors pay a flat rate of 160 shillings a month. insured employment or at any age if emigrating permanently. Employer: None. Disability benefit: Total incapacity for any work. Government: None. The disability is assessed by the fund member’s doctor, a National Social Security Fund doctor, and the Director of Qualifying Conditions Medical Services in the Ministry of Health. Cash sickness and maternity benefits: No statutory Survivor benefit: Payable for the death of the fund member benefits are provided. before retirement. The benefit is payable to the spouse and orphans or, if none, to other dependent relatives. Medical benefits: There is no qualifying period; voluntarycontributors qualify after 60 days of coverage for medical benefits or after 6 months of coverage for maternity care. Old-Age Benefits A lump sum equal to total employee and employer contributions, plus interest. SSPTW: Africa, 2005 ♦ 95 Kenya Sickness and Maternity Benefits Coverage Sickness and maternity benefits: No statutory benefits are Employed persons in the public and private sectors. provided. Exclusions: Nonmanual employees earning more than The 1976 Employment Act requires employers to pay 100% of 4,000 shillings a month, casual workers, and family labor. earnings for up to 2 months of sick leave; some employers negotiate with trade unions to pay 100% of earnings for 1, 3, or Source of Funds 6 months, then 50% of earnings for a period of equal duration. The 1976 Employment Act requires employers to pay 100% of Insured person: None. earnings for up to 2 months of maternity leave. Some maternity Self-employed person: Not applicable. medical benefits are also provided by employers. Employer: Total cost, met through the direct provision of benefits or insurance premiums. Workers’ Medical Benefits Government: None; the cost of benefits for government Free care is provided in government hospitals for certain employees. illnesses, including tuberculosis, sexually transmitted diseases, and AIDS. Qualifying Conditions The maximum duration of benefits is 180 days in 1 year; may be Work injury benefits: There is no minimum qualifying period. extended in the case of exceptional hardship. Free inpatient treatment in government hospitals is provided to Temporary Disability Benefits employed persons who are not covered by health insurance but who contribute to the National Social Security Fund. The benefit is equal to 50% of the insured’s earnings, up to a There are 367 approved hospitals in Kenya. maximum of 540 shillings. The benefit is payable after a 3-day Cost sharing: A refund of expenses for hospital and medical waiting period; the benefit is paid retroactively if the incapacity treatment for insured persons, according to the schedule in lasts for more than 3 days. law. The maximum reimbursement ranges between 200 shillings The maximum total benefit award for temporary disability is and 650 shillings a day, depending on the medical facility 240,000 shillings. attended. The disability is assessed by the fund member’s doctor, a Medical services provided outside the country are reimbursed National Social Security Fund doctor, and the Director of at 750 shillings a day. Medical Services in the Ministry of Health. Government employees receive subsidized care at government facilities. Permanent Disability Benefits A lump sum equal to 60 months of the insured’s earnings is Dependents’ Medical Benefits payable for a permanent partial disability. Dependent children are entitled to a maximum of 10 days of The maximum total benefit award for a permanent partial benefits up to age 18 (age 22 if still dependent). disability is 240,000 shillings. The disability is assessed by the fund member’s doctor, a Administrative Organization National Social Security Fund doctor, and the Director of Medical Services in the Ministry of Health. Ministry of Health (http://www.health.go.ke) provides general supervision through a board of directors. Survivor Benefits National Hospital Insurance Fund administers the program. Survivor benefit: A lump sum equal to 60 months of the deceased’s earnings is payable to survivors who were fully Work Injury dependent on the deceased; in the absence of fully dependent survivors, a reduced benefit is paid to survivors who were only Regulatory Framework partially dependent. First law: 1946. The minimum benefit is 35,000 shillings. Current laws: 1974 (workmen’s compensation), with 1976 and The maximum benefit is 240,000 shillings. 1987 amendments; and 1976 (employment), with 1977 Funeral grant: A lump sum equal to the cost of the funeral is amendment. payable to dependents; the employer pays 2,000 shillings if Type of program: Employer-liability system, normally there are no dependents. involving insurance with a private carrier. 96 ♦ SSPTW: Africa, 2005 Kenya Administrative Organization Ministry of Labor and Human Resource Development (http:// www.labour.go.ke) enforces the law, approves settlements, and pays benefits from money deposited with it by employers. Employers may insure against liability with private insurance companies. SSPTW: Africa, 2005 ♦ 97 Liberia Disability pension: Permanent incapacity for work with Liberia contributions in 2/3 of the months since first becoming covered, with at least 50 contributions in the 60 months before Exchange rate: US$1.00 equals the onset of disability. 49 Liberian dollars ($). Disability settlement: Ineligible for the disability pension but has at least 12 months of contributions. Old Age, Disability, and Survivors Disability assistance: Payable to needy disabled workers who are ineligible for social insurance disability benefits. Regulatory Framework Survivor pension: The deceased met the contributions First law: 1972. qualifying condition for the disability pension or was a Current law: 1988. pensioner. Type of program: Social insurance and social assistance system. Old-Age Benefits Old-age pension: The pension is equal to 25% of the Coverage insured’s average monthly earnings, plus 1% for every 10- month period of contributions beyond 100 months. Social insurance Old-age settlement: A lump sum equal to employee Public-sector employees and employees of firms with five or contributions, plus accrued interest. more workers. Old-age assistance: The maximum assistance benefit is $350 Exclusions: Casual workers, family labor, domestic employees, a year. and armed forces personnel. Voluntary coverage for self-employed persons and others not Permanent Disability Benefits compulsorily covered. Disability pension: The pension is equal to 25% of the Social assistance insured’s average monthly earnings in the last 12 months, plus Needy elderly, disabled, or unemployed persons. 1% for every 10-month period of contributions beyond 50 months. Source of Funds Disability settlement: A lump sum equal to employee contributions, plus accrued interest. Social insurance Disability assistance: The maximum benefit is $350 a year. Insured person: 3% of earnings. Self-employed person: Voluntary contributions only. Survivor Benefits Employer: 3% of payroll. Survivor pension: 50% of the deceased’s pension is payable Government: None. to a dependent widow(er). Social assistance The maximum survivor pension is 100% of the old-age pension None. or disability pension, whichever is higher.Insured person: Self-employed person: None. Orphan’s pension: Each child younger than age 18 (age 21 ifa student, no limit if disabled) receives 10% of the insured’s Employer: None. pension; 20% for a full orphan. Government: Total cost. The maximum orphan’s pension is 50% of the deceased’s pension (100% for full orphans). Qualifying Conditions Old-age pension: Age 60 with at least 100 months of Administrative Organization contributions. Managed by a tripartite board of directors, the National Social Retirement from employment is necessary until age 65. Security and Welfare Corporation administers the program. Old-age settlement: Ineligible for the old-age pension at the pensionable age but has at least 12 months of contributions. Work Injury Old-age assistance: Payable to needy elderly persons who are ineligible for social insurance old-age benefits; may also be Regulatory Framework payable to certain unemployed workers. First law: 1943 (workmen’s compensation), implemented in 1949. 98 ♦ SSPTW: Africa, 2005 Liberia Current law: 1980 (employment injury). Orphan’s pension: Each child younger than age 18 (age 21 if Type of program: Social insurance system. a student, no limit if disabled) receives 6% of the insured’s average earnings; 12% for a full orphan. Coverage The maximum orphan’s pension is 30% of the deceased’s earnings; 60% for full orphans. Employed and self-employed persons. Dependent parent’s and grandparent’s pension (in the Exclusions: Casual workers, family labor, and domestic absence of other eligible survivors): The pension is equal servants. to 20% of the insured’s average earnings. The pension is split equally if there is more than one eligible survivor. Source of Funds Funeral grant: The cost of the burial, up to a maximum of $500. Insured person: None. Self-employed person: An average contribution of 1.75% of declared earnings. Administrative Organization Employer: An average contribution of 1.75% of payroll. Managed by a tripartite board of directors, the National Social Security and Welfare Corporation administers the program. Government: None. Qualifying Conditions Work injury benefits: There is no minimum qualifying period. Temporary Disability Benefits The benefit is equal to 65% of the insured’s average earnings. The benefit is payable after a 14-day waiting period (if the disability lasts longer than 14 days, the first 14 days are paid retroactively) until full recovery or certification of permanent disability. The maximum duration of benefit is 1 year. The minimum benefit is $50 or 100% of the insured’s average monthly earnings, whichever is lower. Permanent Disability Benefits Permanent disability pension: For a total disability, the pension is equal to 65% of the insured’s average earnings. Constant-attendance allowance: Equal to 25% of the disability pension. Partial disability: A percentage of the full pension determined by the assessed degree of disability, according to the schedule in law. The degree of disability is assessed by a medical board. The minimum benefit is $50 or 100% of the insured’s average monthly earnings, whichever is lower. Workers’ Medical Benefits Benefits include reasonable expenses for medical and surgical care, hospitalization, drugs, and appliances. Survivor Benefits Survivor pension: 20% of the insured’s average earnings are payable to a dependent widow or a dependent disabled widower. The widow(er)’s pension ceases on remarriage. SSPTW: Africa, 2005 ♦ 99 Libya Survivor pension: The deceased was a pensioner or was Libya eligible for a pension at the time of death. Exchange rate: Exchange rate of the dinar Eligible survivors are the widow(s) or widower; sons (up to with the US$ is not available. age 20, 22, 24, or 28 depending on the type of continuing education); unmarried, divorced, or widowed daughter(s) (for whom the benefit ceases on marriage or remarriage); parents; Old Age, Disability, and Survivors and dependent brother(s) and sister(s) if the deceased had no children. Regulatory Framework Benefits are not payable abroad. First law: 1957. Current laws: 1980 (social security), 1987 (disability), and Old-Age Benefits 1998 (social security fund). Old-age pension: The full pension is based on 2.5% of the Type of program: Social insurance system. insured’s average earnings during the last 3 years for each of the first 20 years of contributions, plus 2% of the insured’s Coverage average earnings for each year beyond 20 years. The minimum pension is 96 dinars a month (80% of the national All residents. minimum wage). Special system for armed forces personnel. The maximum pension is 80% of the insured’s average earnings. Source of Funds Dependent supplement: Four dinars a month for a wife and Insured person: 3.75% of gross earnings. 2 dinars a month for each child younger than age 18 (no limit for an unmarried daughter). The above contributions also finance sickness benefits, pregnancy benefits, birth grants, and work injury benefits. Permanent Disability Benefits Self-employed person: 15.175% of income. The above contributions also help finance sickness benefits, Disability pension: 50% of the full old-age pension is payable pregnancy benefits, birth grants, and work injury benefits. if assessed as 60% or more disabled, plus 0.5% of the full old- age pension for each of the first 20 years of contributions and Employer: 10.5% of gross payroll; employers of foreign 2% of the full old-age pension for each year beyond 20 years. companies contribute 11.25%. The minimum pension is 60 dinars a month plus 50% of the The above contributions also help finance sickness benefits, insured’s earnings. pregnancy benefits, birth grants, and work injury benefits. The maximum pension is 80% of the insured’s earnings. Government: 0.75% of covered earnings; annual subsidies and the cost of income-tested benefits. Dependent supplement: Four dinars a month for a wife and 2 dinars a month for each child younger than age 18 (no limit The above contributions also help finance sickness benefits, for an unmarried daughter). pregnancy benefits, birth grants, and work injury benefits. Constant-attendance allowance: Up to 25% of the pension if receiving the full total disability pension. Qualifying Conditions Old-age pension: Age 65 (men) or age 60 (women); age 62 for Survivor Benefits civil service employees and age 60 for workers in hazardous or unhealthy occupations, with 20 years of contributions for a full Survivor pension: The benefit is calculated according to the pension. number of family members and their relationship to the deceased. Retirement from covered employment is necessary. Widows receive between 30% and 75% of the insured’s Dependent supplement: Paid for a wife and each child younger pension, regardless of age. A single son receives between 40% than age 18 (no limit for an unmarried daughter). and 75%; up to 100% for two sons or more. Parents and Benefits are not payable abroad. brothers and sisters receive between 15% and 60% of the Disability pension: Payable for at least an 80% loss of insured’s pension. earning capacity. Funeral grant: A lump sum of 50 dinars. Dependent supplement: Paid for a wife and each child younger than age 18 (no limit for an unmarried daughter). Administrative Organization Benefits are not payable abroad. Social Security Fund administers the program through district and local offices. 100 ♦ SSPTW: Africa, 2005 Libya General supervision by a national social security committee. Maternity benefit: 100% of the insured’s earnings are payable Local supervision by municipal committees. for a maximum of 3 months. Pregnancy benefit: Three dinars a month from the fourth Sickness and Maternity month of pregnancy until childbirth is payable for a maximum of 6 months. Regulatory Framework Birth grant: A lump sum of 25 dinars for each birth. First law: 1957. Workers’ Medical Benefits Current laws: 1980 (social security) and 1998 (social care fund). Benefits include general and specialist care, hospitalization, Employer-liability and social insurance maternity and nursing care, essential medical supplies, andType of program: system. rehabilitation. Cost sharing: Patients may be required to pay part of the cost of benefits. Coverage Medical benefits are provided for up to 6 months after Employer-liability program: Cash benefits for all employees. entitlement to cash benefits ceases. Social insurance program: Cash benefits for the self- Medical services are provided directly to patients by the employed and specified medical benefits for the employed and facilities of the Ministry for Social Security. the self-employed. Dependents’ Medical Benefits Source of Funds Benefits include general and specialist care, hospitalization, Insured person maternity and nursing care, essential medical supplies, and Cash benefits: See source of funds under Old Age, Disability, rehabilitation. The wife of an insured man receives the same and Survivors. medical maternity benefits as an insured woman. Medical benefits: 1.5% of gross earnings. Cost sharing: Patients may be required to pay part of the cost of benefits. Self-employed person Medical benefits are provided for up to 6 months after Cash benefits: 1.5% of income. entitlement to cash benefits ceases. Medical benefits: 3.5% of income. Medical services are provided directly to patients by the facilities of the Ministry for Social Security. Employer Cash benefits: Total cost of maternity benefits. Administrative Organization Medical benefits: 2.45% of gross payroll. Social Security Fund administers the program through district Government and local offices. Cash benefits: 0.75% of insurable earnings for the self- General supervision by a national social security committee. employed. Local supervision by municipal committees. Medical benefits: 5% of insurable earnings. Work Injury Qualifying Conditions Cash sickness benefits: Six weeks of contribution in the last Regulatory Framework 3 months. First law: 1957. Cash maternity benefits: Six months of coverage before the Current laws: 1980 (social security) and 1998 (social care expected date of childbirth or 4 months of contributions in the fund). last 6 months. Type of program: Employer-liability and social insurance Medical benefits: Receiving sickness benefits, maternity system. benefits, or a pension. Dependents are entitled to the same benefits as the insured. Coverage Sickness and Maternity Benefits Employer-liability program: Cash benefits for all employees. Sickness benefit: 60% of the insured’s earnings are payable Social insurance program: Cash benefits for the employed for up to 1 year. and the self-employed. SSPTW: Africa, 2005 ♦ 101 Libya Source of Funds and dependent brother(s) and sister(s) if the deceased had no children. Insured person: See source of funds under Old Age, Disability, and Survivors (cash benefits) and Sickness and Widows receive between 30% and 75% of the insured’s Maternity (medical benefits), above. pension, regardless of age. A single son receives between 40% and 75%; up to 100% for two sons or more. Parents and Self-employed person: See source of funds under Old Age, brothers and sisters receive between 15% and 60% of the Disability, and Survivors (cash benefits) and Sickness and insured’s pension. Maternity (medical benefits), above. Funeral grant: A lump sum of 50 dinars. Employer: See source of funds under Old Age, Disability, and Survivors (cash benefits) and Sickness and Maternity (medical benefits), above. Administrative Organization Government: See source of funds under Old Age, Disability, Social Security Fund administers the program through district and Survivors (cash benefits) and Sickness and Maternity and local offices. (medical benefits), above. General supervision by a national social security committee. Local supervision by municipal committees. Qualifying Conditions Work injury benefits: There is no minimum qualifying period. Unemployment Temporary Disability Benefits Regulatory Framework 70% of the insured’s earnings are payable for a maximum of No statutory benefits are provided. 1 year. The 1980 Social Security Law requires employers to pay a severance benefit of 100% of earnings to laid-off employees for Permanent Disability Benefits up to 6 months. Permanent disability pension: For an assessed disability of 60% or more, the full pension is 2.5% of the insured’s average Family Allowances earnings during the last 3 years for each of the first 20 years of contributions, plus 2% of the insured’s average earnings for Regulatory Framework each year of contributions beyond 20 years. Some family benefits are provided under the 1998 Social Care The minimum pension is 60 dinars a month plus 50% of the Fund legislation. insured’s earnings. The maximum pension is 100% of the insured’s earnings. Constant-attendance allowance: Up to 25% of the pension if totally disabled. Partial disability: For an assessed disability of between 30% and 59%, a percentage of the full pension is paid according to the assessed degree of disability; for an assessed disability of between 5% and 29%, a lump sum is paid. Workers’ Medical Benefits Benefits include medical treatment and surgery, hospitalization, medicine and appliances, dental care, eyeglasses, and rehabilitation. Survivor Benefits Survivor pension: The benefit is calculated according to the number of family members and their relationship to the deceased. Eligible survivors are the widow(s) or widower; sons (up to age 20, 22, 24, or 28 depending on the type of continuing education); unmarried, divorced, or widowed daughter(s) (for whom the benefit ceases on marriage or remarriage); parents; 102 ♦ SSPTW: Africa, 2005 Madagascar Partial pension: A proportionally reduced pension is payable if Madagascar the insured has less than 28 quarters of contributions in thelast 10 calendar years but has at least 100 quarters (men) or Exchange rate: US$1.00 equals 9,516 francs. 80 quarters (women) of coverage during the full working career. If the insured has insufficient quarters of contributions, he or she can continue working up to 5 years after the legal Old Age, Disability, and Survivors retirement age in order to meet the contribution conditions. The pension is payable abroad. Regulatory Framework Solidarity allowance: For insured persons who do not meet First and current laws: 1969 (social insurance), 1994 (social the qualifying conditions for the full or partial old-age pension. protection), and 1999 (financing). The insured must be age 60 (men) or age 55 (women) with Type of program: Social insurance system. 15 quarters of employment between January 1, 1964, and December 31, 1968, and have been in salaried employment on January 1, 1969. Retirement from employment is necessary. Coverage The allowance is payable abroad. Employed persons including agricultural salaried workers, Disability pension: Age 55 (men) or age 50 (women and domestic workers, the clergy, presidents and directors of seamen) with at least a 60% loss of working capacity and with private companies, managers of limited companies, employed 10 years of insurance coverage including 28 quarters of taxi drivers, and certain categories of employed seamen. contributions in the last 10 calendar years (some periods of Exclusions: Self-employed persons, farmers, and casual prior service are credited). agricultural workers working less than 3 months a year. The pension is payable abroad. Special system for civil servants. Survivor pension: The deceased was a pensioner or was no younger than age 55 (men) or age 50 (women) and met the Source of Funds contribution qualifying conditions for the old-age pension at 1% of gross earnings. Full-time domestic the time of death.Insured person: workers contribute a flat-rate 2.92 francs a month. Eligible survivors are the spouse and children younger than The minimum earnings for contribution and benefit purposes age 15 (age 22 if a student or disabled). are equal to the legal monthly minimum wage (253,060 francs, The pension is payable abroad. nonagricultural sector; 256,800 francs, agricultural sector). The maximum earnings for contribution and benefit purposes Old-Age Benefits are eight times the legal minimum wage. Old-age pension: The pension is 30% of the monthly legal Self-employed person: Not applicable. minimum wage, plus 20% of the insured’s monthly average Employer: 9.5% of gross payroll; a flat-rate 2,923 francs a adjusted earnings in the last 10 calendar years, plus an month for full-time domestic workers. increment of 1% of the insured’s earnings for each year of contributions beyond 10 years. The minimum earnings for contribution and benefit purposes are the legal monthly minimum wage (253,060 francs, Pensions are paid quarterly. nonagricultural sector; 256,800 francs, agricultural sector). The minimum earnings for benefit calculation purposes are The maximum earnings for contribution and benefit purposes equal to the legal minimum wage (253,060 francs a month, are eight times the legal minimum wage. nonagricultural sector; 256,800 francs, agricultural sector). Contributions are paid quarterly. The maximum earnings for benefit calculation purposes are eight times the legal minimum wage. Government: None; contributes as an employer for public- sector employees who are not civil servants. Partial pension: A reduced pension is paid. Dependent’s supplement: 10% of the insured’s pension is Qualifying Conditions payable for a spouse older than age 59 (men) or age 54 (women). Old-age pension: Age 60 (men) or age 55 (women) with 15 years of insurance coverage (unless working before 1969) Special supplement: Equal to 5% of the pension for workers including 28 quarters of contributions in the last 10 calendar awarded the bronze medal; 10% for silver medal holders. years (some periods of prior service are credited). The The minimum pension is 60% of the legal minimum wage pensionable age is reduced by 5 years for seamen. including supplements. Retirement from employment is necessary. SSPTW: Africa, 2005 ♦ 103 Madagascar The maximum pension is 40% of maximum earnings for Orphan’s pension: 15% of the pension the insured received contribution and benefit purposes, regardless of supplements, or would have been entitled to receive is payable for each of or 75% of the insured’s monthly average adjusted earnings in the first two orphans and 10% for each other orphan; 20% for the last 10 calendar years including supplements. each full orphan. The combined receipt of the old-age pension with the work The total survivor pension must not exceed 85% of the injury disability pension is allowed. pension the insured received or would have been entitled to Refund of contributions: Total contributions, plus 2% annual receive; otherwise, the pensions are reduced proportionately. interest, are payable to an insured person with at least 4 Benefit adjustment: Pensions are adjusted according to contribution quarters who does not meet the requirements for increases in the legal minimum wage. (The last adjustment of the pension. The amount of the refund cannot be less than the legal minimum wage was made in 2004.) 100,000 francs. Solidarity allowance: The annual allowance is equal to 30% Administrative Organization of the annual legal minimum wage, plus 10% of the insured’s average annual earnings in the last 5 calendar years, plus 1% Ministry of the Civil Service, Labor, and Social Legislation of the insured’s earnings for each 4-quarter period of provides general supervision. contributions. National Social Insurance Fund (http://www.cnaps.mg) The allowance is paid quarterly. administers the program. The monthly legal minimum wage is 253,060 francs (nonagricultural sector); 256,800 francs (agricultural sector). Sickness and Maternity Benefit adjustment: Pensions are adjusted according to increases in the legal minimum wage. (The last adjustment to Regulatory Framework the legal minimum wage was made in 2004.) First law: 1952. Current laws: 1963 (family benefits), with 1967 amendment; Permanent Disability Benefits 1969 (social insurance); 1994 (social protection); and 1999 (financing). Disability pension: The pension is equal to 80% of the old- age pension that would have been payable if the insured had Type of program: Social insurance system. Maternity worked until the pensionable age. benefits only. Dependent’s supplement: 10% of the insured’s pension is payable for a spouse older than age 59 (men) or age 54 Coverage (women). Employed women, including agricultural salaried workers and Special supplement: Equal to 5% of the pension for workers domestic workers. awarded the bronze medal; 10% for silver medal holders. Exclusions: Self-employed persons and casual agricultural The minimum pension is 60% of the legal monthly minimum workers working less than 3 months a year. wage (253,060 francs, nonagricultural sector; 256,800 francs, agricultural sector) including supplements. Source of Funds Benefit adjustment: Pensions are adjusted according to increases in the legal minimum wage. (The last adjustment of Insured person: None. the legal minimum wage was made in 2004.) Self-employed person: Not applicable. The combined receipt of a permanent disability pension with Employer: See source of funds under Family Allowances, the work injury disability pension is allowed. below. Refund of contributions: Total contributions, plus 2% annual Government: None. interest, are payable to an insured person with at least 4 contribution quarters who does not meet the requirements for Qualifying Conditions the pension. The amount of the refund cannot be less than 100,000 francs. Cash sickness benefits: No statutory benefits are provided. (The labor code requires employers to provide paid sick leave Survivor Benefits to employees.) Cash maternity benefits: Six consecutive months of insured Survivor pension: 30% of the pension the insured received or employment with 20 days or 134 hours of work a month. would have been entitled to receive is payable to an unemployed widow(er); 15% if employed or receiving a pension. The pension ceases on remarriage. Pensions are paid quarterly. 104 ♦ SSPTW: Africa, 2005 Madagascar Sickness and Maternity Benefits growers, members of cooperatives, and convicted persons working in prison workshops. Sickness benefit: No statutory benefits are provided. (The labor code requires employers to provide paid sick leave to Exclusions: Self-employed persons. employees.) Special system for civil servants. Maternity benefit: The benefit is equal to 50% of the insured’s last wage. The benefit is payable for 6 weeks before Source of Funds and 8 weeks (up to 11 weeks in case of complications) after the expected date of childbirth. The benefit is paid in two Insured person: None; cooperative members contribute 1% installments (three in case of complications). of annual gross earnings; full-time domestic workers make a flat-rate monthly contribution of 39 francs; apprentices and The minimum monthly earnings for benefit calculation private technical school students make a flat-rate annual purposes are equal to the legal monthly minimum wage contribution of 200 francs; tobacco growers contribute 1.5% (253,060 francs, nonagricultural sector; 256,800 francs, on annual base earnings of 20,000 francs per cultivated agricultural sector). hectare. The maximum earnings for benefit calculation purposes are The minimum earnings for contribution and benefit purposes eight times the legal minimum wage. are equal to the legal minimum wage (253,060 francs, If the insured is ineligible for maternity benefit, the employer nonagricultural sector; 256,800 francs, agricultural sector). pays 50% of earnings for up to 14 weeks of maternity leave. The maximum earnings for contribution and benefit purposes are eight times the legal minimum wage. Workers’ Medical Benefits Contributions are paid quarterly. Insured women are reimbursed for the cost of medical care Self-employed person: Not applicable. during pregnancy and childbirth, up to a maximum of Employer: 1.25% of gross payroll; 1% of gross payroll for 25,000 francs. (The labor code requires employers to provide salaried casual agricultural workers; a lump-sum monthly certain medical services to employees.) contribution of 385 francs for full-time domestic workers. The minimum earnings for contribution and benefit purposes Dependents’ Medical Benefits are equal to the legal monthly minimum wage (253,060 francs, Some maternity and child health and welfare services are nonagricultural sector; 256,800 francs, agricultural sector). provided under Family Allowances, below. (The labor code The maximum earnings for contribution and benefit purposes requires employers to provide certain medical services to are eight times the legal minimum wage. employees’ dependents.) Contributions are paid quarterly. Administrative Organization Government: None; contributes as an employer for public-sector employees who are not civil servants. Ministry of the Civil Service, Labor, and Social Legislation provides general supervision. Qualifying Conditions National Social Insurance Fund administers the program. Work injury benefits: There is no minimum qualifying period. Work Injury Temporary Disability Benefits Regulatory Framework The daily benefit is equal to 2/3 of the insured’s daily average earnings in the last 30 days before the onset of disability, up to First law: 1925. a maximum of 6,000 francs a day. The benefit is payable Current laws: 1963 (work injury), 1969 (social insurance), 1994 monthly from the day after the onset of disability until full (social protection), and 1999 (financing). recovery or the award of permanent disability. Type of program: Social insurance system. Benefit adjustment: If the disability lasts more than 3 months, benefits may be adjusted according to the growth in wages. Coverage Employed persons including agricultural salaried workers, Permanent Disability Benefits domestic workers, merchant seamen, the clergy, students, Permanent disability pension: For total disability, the apprentices, presidents and directors of private companies, monthly pension is equal to 100% of the insured’s monthly managers of limited companies, employed taxi drivers, tobacco average earnings in the 12 months before the onset of disability. SSPTW: Africa, 2005 ♦ 105 Madagascar The minimum earnings for benefit calculation purposes are Only 1/3 of earnings over 4 times the legal minimum wage is equal to 1.4 times the legal monthly minimum wage taken into account for benefit calculation purposes. The (253,060 francs, nonagricultural sector; 256,800 francs, maximum earnings for benefit calculation purposes are 16 times agricultural sector). the legal minimum wage. Only 1/3 of earnings over four times the legal minimum wage is The total survivor pension must not exceed 85% of the taken into account for benefit calculation purposes. The deceased’s earnings for benefit calculation purposes; maximum earnings for benefit calculation purposes are 16 times otherwise, the pensions are reduced proportionately. the legal minimum wage. Pensions are paid quarterly. Constant-attendance supplement: Equal to 40% of the Funeral grant: A lump sum of 100,000 francs. insured’s pension. The supplement must not be less than the legal minimum wage. Benefit adjustment: Pensions are adjusted according to increases in the legal minimum wage. (The last adjustment of Partial disability: The pension is equal to the insured’s average the legal minimum wage was made in 2004.) earnings in the 12 months before the onset of disability multiplied by 0.5 times the percentage of the assessed degree of disability for the portion of disability up to 50% and by Administrative Organization 1.5 times the percentage of the assessed degree of disability Ministry of the Civil Service, Labor, and Social Legislation for the portion of disability above 50%. provides general supervision. The partial disability pension is paid quarterly. If the assessed National Social Insurance Fund administers the program. degree of disability is 75% or more, the pension can be paid monthly). If the assessed degree of disability is less than 10%, the pension is paid as a lump sum. Family Allowances The partial and total disability pensions may be partially converted to a lump sum after receiving the pension for Regulatory Framework 3 years. First law: 1952. The combined receipt of a permanent disability pension with Current laws: 1963 (family benefits), with 1967 amendment; the old-age pension or disability pension payable under Old 1969 (social insurance); 1994 (social protection); and 1999 Age, Disability, and Survivors is allowed. (financing). Benefit adjustment: Pensions are adjusted according to Type of program: Employment-related system. increases in the legal minimum wage. (The last adjustment of the legal minimum wage was made in 2004.) Coverage Workers’ Medical Benefits Employed persons including agricultural salaried workers,domestic workers, the clergy, students, apprentices, presidents Benefits include medical and surgical care, hospitalization, and directors of private companies, managers of limited medicines, appliances, transportation, and rehabilitation. companies, employed taxi drivers, and certain categories of seamen. Survivor Benefits Residents of Madagascar or France. Survivor pension: 30% of the deceased’s monthly average Unemployed workers are eligible for a maximum of 6 months earnings in the 12 months before the onset of disability is under certain conditions. payable to a widow(er). Exclusions: Self-employed persons, farmers, and casual Orphan’s pension: The monthly pension is equal to 15% of agricultural workers working less than 3 months a year. the deceased’s monthly average earnings in the 12 months Special system for civil servants. before the onset of disability for each of the first two orphans younger than age 15 (age 19 if an apprentice, age 22 if a student or disabled) and 10% for each other orphan; 20% for Source of Funds each full orphan. Insured person: None; full-time domestic workers contribute Dependent parent’s and grandparent’s pension: The a flat-rate 69 francs a month. monthly pension is equal to 10% of the deceased’s average The above contributions also finance maternity benefits under earnings each, up to a maximum of 30%. Sickness and Maternity, above. The minimum earnings for benefit calculation purposes are Self-employed person: Not applicable. 1.4 times the legal monthly minimum wage (253,060 francs, Employer: 2.25% of gross payroll. For full-time domestic nonagricultural sector; 256,800 francs, agricultural sector). workers, a flat-rate contribution of 692 francs a month. 106 ♦ SSPTW: Africa, 2005 Madagascar The minimum earnings for contribution and benefit purposes are the legal minimum wage (253,060 francs, nonagricultural sector; 256,800 francs, agricultural sector). The maximum earnings for contribution and benefit purposes are eight times the legal minimum wage. The above contributions also finance maternity benefits under Sickness and Maternity, above. Government: None; contributes as an employer for public- sector employees who are not civil servants. Qualifying Conditions Family allowances: The child must be younger than age 15 (age 19 if an apprentice; age 22 if a student, disabled, or an unmarried daughter caring for children). The parent must have 6 consecutive months of insured employment with 20 days or 134 hours of work a month or be a widow(er) of a beneficiary. Prenatal allowance: Must undergo prescribed medical examinations before childbirth. Birth grant: Must undergo prescribed medical examinations after childbirth. Family Allowance Benefits Family allowances: The monthly allowance is 10,000 francs for each child. Prenatal allowance: A lump sum of 90,000 francs. Birth grant: The allowance is 120,000 francs for each birth, payable in two installments. The allowance is reduced by 50% if the childbirth was not medically assisted or if the mother did not undergo the prescribed medical examinations. Some maternity and child health and welfare services are also provided. Benefit adjustment: Benefits are adjusted periodically. (The last adjustment was made in 2003.) Administrative Organization Ministry of the Civil Service, Labor, and Social Legislation provides general supervision. National Social Insurance Fund administers the program. SSPTW: Africa, 2005 ♦ 107 Malawi Permanent Disability Benefits Malawi If totally disabled, a lump sum equal to 54 months of the Exchange rate: US$1.00 equals insured’s earnings. 106.50 kwacha (K). The minimum benefit is 54 times the insured’s monthly earnings. Old Age, Disability, and Survivors Partial disability: A percentage of the full benefit according to the assessed degree of disability, according to the schedule in Regulatory Framework law. No statutory benefits are provided. Constant-attendance allowance: A variable lump sum ispayable, depending on individual circumstances. Special system for public-sector employees only. Workers’ Medical Benefits Sickness and Maternity The employer pays the cost of reasonable medical expenses for Regulatory Framework medical, surgical, dental, and hospital treatment; skillednursing services; medicines; prostheses; mechanical aids; and No statutory cash benefits are provided. transportation. Some medical services are provided free to the population at government health centers and hospitals. Survivor Benefits Survivor benefit: A lump sum equal to 42 months’ of the Work Injury deceased’s monthly earnings, minus any disability benefit paid before the date of death. Regulatory Framework Eligible dependents are members of the insured’s family; a First law: 1946. reduced benefit is paid if the survivor was only partially 1990 and 2000. dependent.Current laws: Type of program: Employer-liability system, normally Funeral grant: In the absence of a surviving dependent, the involving insurance with a private carrier. cost of the burial is paid by the employer. Coverage Administrative Organization Employed persons. Ministry of Labor and Vocational Training enforces the law. Exclusions: Casual workers, family workers, and armed forces Employers may insure work injury liability with private personnel. insurance companies. Source of Funds Insured person: None. Self-employed person: Not applicable. Employer: Total cost met through the direct provision of benefits or the payment of insurance premiums. Government: None. Qualifying Conditions Work injury benefits: There is no minimum qualifying period. Temporary Disability Benefits A percentage of the insured’s earnings, according to the schedule in law. The benefit is payable after a 3-day waiting period until full recovery or certification of permanent disability. 108 ♦ SSPTW: Africa, 2005 Mali voluntarily insured) and does not meet the qualifying Mali conditions for the old-age pension or early pension. Exchange rate: US$1.00 equals The pension is payable abroad only if there is a reciprocal 493.54 CFA francs. agreement; in the absence of a reciprocal agreement, the insured’s contributions are refunded at retirement age or if permanently leaving the country. Old Age, Disability, and Survivors Disability pension: A permanent loss of 2/3 of earning capacity for any work with 8 years of insurance coverage; Regulatory Framework 10 years of insurance coverage if voluntarily insured. First law: 1961. Survivor pension: The deceased was a pensioner or met the Current laws: 1999 (social insurance), with 2003 amendment; contribution qualifying condition for a pension at the time of and 1999 (voluntary coverage), implemented in 2004. death. Type of program: Social insurance system. The pension is payable to a widow(er) who was married to the deceased for at least 2 years and to dependent orphans younger than age 14 (age 18 if an apprentice, age 21 if a Coverage student or disabled). Employed persons. Survivor allowance: Payable to the widow(er) if the insured Voluntary coverage for self-employed persons. had less than 13 years of insurance coverage; less than 15 years of insurance coverage if voluntarily insured. Special system for civil servants, magistrates, and armed forces personnel. Old-Age Benefits Source of Funds Old-age pension: The pension is equal to 26% of the insured’s average monthly earnings in the last 8 years. If the Insured person: 3.6% of gross earnings. insured has more than 156 months of insurance coverage, the The minimum earnings for contribution purposes are equal to pension is increased by 2% of the insured’s average monthly the legal minimum wage. The monthly legal minimum wage is earnings in the last 8 years for each 12-month period of 28,460 CFA francs. insurance coverage beyond 120 months. The pension is paid Self-employed person: A flat-rate voluntary contribution of quarterly. 9% of earnings, according to five earnings classes. The minimum earnings for benefit calculation purposes are The minimum earnings for contribution purposes are equal to twice the legal minimum wage. The monthly legal 125,000 CFA francs a quarter. minimum wage is 28,460 CFA francs. The maximum earnings for contribution purposes are The pension must not exceed 80% of the insured’s average 1,000,000 CFA francs a quarter. monthly earnings in the last 8 years. Employer: 5.4% of gross payroll. The pension for voluntarily insured persons is equal to 30% of the insured’s average quarterly earnings. If the insured has The minimum earnings for contribution purposes are equal to more than 60 quarters of insurance coverage, the pension is the legal minimum wage. increased by 2% of the insured’s average quarterly earnings Contributions are paid monthly by employers with 10 or more for each year of insurance coverage beyond 60 quarters. employees or quarterly by employers with 1 to 9 employees. The minimum old-age pension for voluntarily insured persons Government: None; contributes as an employer for public- is equal to 30% of earnings used for contribution purposes, sector employees who are not civil servants. according to five earnings classes. Early pension: The pension is reduced by 5% for each year Qualifying Conditions that the pension is taken before age 58; age 60 if voluntarily insured. Old-age pension: Age 58 (age 53 if prematurely aged) with 13 years of contributions; age 60 with 15 years of contributions Old-age allowance: A monthly lump sum equal to 52% of the if voluntarily insured. Retirement from all gainful activity is legal minimum wage. necessary. The allowance for voluntarily insured persons is equal to 30% Early pension: Age 53 with 13 years of contributions; age 55 of the earnings used for contribution purposes, according to with 15 years of contributions if voluntarily insured. five earnings classes. Retirement from all gainful activity is necessary. Benefit adjustment: Pensions are adjusted by decree for Old-age allowance: Age 53 with 6 years of insurance changes in the average salary and the legal minimum wage, coverage (age 60 with 10 years of insurance coverage if depending on the financial resources of the system. (The last adjustment was made in 2001.) SSPTW: Africa, 2005 ♦ 109 Mali Permanent Disability Benefits 6-month period of insurance coverage. The deceased’s old- age pension is calculated on the basis of 40 quarters of Disability pension: The pension is equal to 26% of the insurance coverage multiplied by two. insured’s average monthly earnings in the last 8 years. If the insured has more than 156 months of insurance coverage, the If there is more than one widow, the allowance is split equally pension is increased by 2% of the insured’s average monthly among them. earnings in the last 8 years for each 12-month period of The lump sum for the survivor of a voluntarily insured person insurance coverage beyond 120 months. For each year that a is equal to 1 month of the old-age pension that would have claim is made before age 50, the insured is credited with a 6- been payable to the deceased with 40 quarters of insurance month coverage period. coverage multiplied by two, for each 6-month period of The minimum earnings for benefit calculation purposes are insurance coverage. equal to twice the legal minimum wage. The monthly legal Benefit adjustment: Pensions are adjusted by decree for minimum wage is 28,460 CFA francs. changes in the average salary and the legal minimum wage, The pension must not exceed 80% of the insured’s average depending on the financial resources of the system. (The last monthly earnings in the last 8 years. adjustment was made in 2001.) The pension for voluntarily insured persons is equal to 30% of the insured’s average quarterly earnings. If the insured has Administrative Organization more than 60 quarters of insurance coverage, the pension is Ministry of Social Development, Solidarity, and Aged Persons increased by 2% of the insured’s average quarterly earnings provides general supervision. for each year of insurance coverage beyond 60 quarters. Managed by a tripartite board and director general, the The minimum disability pension for voluntarily insured National Social Insurance Institute administers the program. persons is equal to 30% of the earnings used for contribution purposes, according to five earnings classes. Sickness and Maternity The disability pension is reassessed if the insured recovers partially or totally. Regulatory Framework The disability pension ceases at age 53 (age 55 if voluntarily insured) and is replaced by the old-age pension. First law: 1952. Benefit adjustment: Pensions are adjusted by decree for Current laws: 1999 (social insurance); and 1999 (voluntary changes in the average salary and the legal minimum wage, coverage), implemented in 2004. depending on the financial resources of the system. (The last Type of program: Social insurance system. Maternity and adjustment was made in 2001.) medical benefits only. Survivor Benefits Coverage Survivor pension: The pension payable to the widow(er) is Employed persons. equal to 50% of the pension paid or accrued to the deceased. Voluntary coverage for self-employed persons. If there is more than one widow, the pension is split equally among them. Special system for civil servants, magistrates, and armed forces personnel. Orphan’s pension: The pension is equal to 10% of the pension paid or accrued to the deceased for each dependent orphan younger than age 14 (age 18 if an apprentice, age 21 if a Source of Funds student or disabled). Insured person: None. The value of the orphan pension must not be less than the Self-employed person: A flat-rate voluntary contribution of value of family allowances. An orphan receiving the pension 2% of earnings, according to five earnings classes. may receive family allowances. The above contributions finance medical benefits only. The total orphan pension must not exceed 50% of the pension Maternity cash benefits are financed under Family Allowances, paid or accrued to the deceased; otherwise, the pensions are below. reduced proportionately. The minimum earnings for contribution purposes are Survivor allowance: The lump sum is equal to 1 month of the 125,000 CFA francs a quarter. deceased’s old-age pension for each 6-month period of insurance coverage. The deceased’s old-age pension is The maximum earnings for contribution purposes are calculated on the basis of 156 months of insurance coverage. 1,000,000 CFA francs a quarter. The lump sum for the survivor of a voluntary insured person is Employer: 2% of gross payroll. equal to 1 month of the deceased’s old-age pension for each 110 ♦ SSPTW: Africa, 2005 Mali The above contributions finance medical benefits only. Administrative Organization Maternity cash benefits are financed under Family Allowances, below. Ministry of Health, Solidarity, and Aged Persons provides general supervision. The minimum earnings for contribution purposes are equal to the legal minimum wage. The monthly legal minimum wage is Managed by a tripartite board and director general, the 28,460 CFA francs. National Social Insurance Institute administers the program. Contributions are paid monthly by employers with 10 or more employees or quarterly by employers with 1 to 9 employees. Work Injury Government: None; contributes as an employer for public- sector employees who are not civil servants. Regulatory Framework First law: 1932. Qualifying Conditions Current laws: 1999 (social insurance); and 1999 (voluntary coverage), implemented in 2004. Cash sickness benefits: No statutory benefits are provided. Type of program: Social insurance system. Cash maternity benefits: The mother must be resident in Mali and have 9 consecutive months of insured employment (at least 18 days or 120 hours a month); for voluntarily insured Coverage self-employed women, two 6-month periods of insurance Employed persons, including temporary and seasonal workers, coverage. members of production cooperatives, nonsalaried managers of Birth leave: Payable to a father in insured employment for the cooperatives and their assistants, apprentices, students at birth of a live child. technical schools, managers of companies under certain Medical benefits: Must be in insured employment or conditions, and convicted persons working in prison voluntarily insured. workshops. Voluntary coverage for self-employed persons. Sickness and Maternity Benefits Special systems for civil servants and seamen. Sickness benefit: No statutory benefits are provided. (Employers are required to provide paid sick leave for Source of Funds employees.) Insured person: None. Maternity benefit: The benefit is equal to 100% of the Self-employed person: Voluntary contributions of between employed mother’s last earnings. The benefit is payable for 1% and 4% of gross earnings. 6 weeks before and 8 weeks after (11 weeks in the case of complications) the expected date of childbirth. The minimum earnings for voluntary contribution purposes are equal to the legal minimum wage. The monthly legal minimum Birth leave: The benefit is equal to 100% of the father’s last wage is equal to 28,460 CFA francs. earnings. The benefit is payable for any 3 days in the first 15 days after childbirth. The maximum earnings for voluntary contribution purposes are equal to 10 times the legal minimum wage. Workers’ Medical Benefits Employer: 1% to 4% of gross payroll, according to the assessed degree of risk. Medical care and some health and welfare services are The minimum earnings for contribution purposes are equal to provided through the joint interemployer medical services the legal minimum wage. program operated by the National Social Insurance Institute. Contributions are paid monthly by employers with 10 or more Insured and voluntarily insured women receive necessary employees or quarterly by employers with 1 to 9 employees. medical care during pregnancy and childbirth. Government: None. Dependents’ Medical Benefits Qualifying Conditions Medical care and some health and welfare services are provided to the dependents of insured and voluntarily insured Work injury benefits: There is no minimum qualifying period. persons through the joint interemployer medical services Accidents that occur while commuting to and from work are program operated by the National Social Insurance Institute. covered. Eligible dependents are the spouse and dependent children. The wife of an insured or voluntarily insured person receives medical care during pregnancy and childbirth. SSPTW: Africa, 2005 ♦ 111 Mali Temporary Disability Benefits Workers’ Medical Benefits The monthly benefit is equal to 100% of the insured’s last Benefits include medical and surgical care, hospitalization, earnings. The benefit is payable from the day following the medicines, appliances, transportation, and rehabilitation. onset of disability until full recovery or certification of permanent disability. Survivor Benefits The minimum earnings for benefit calculation purposes are equal to the legal minimum wage. The monthly legal minimum Survivor pension: The widow(er) pension is equal to 30% of wage is 28,460 CFA francs. the deceased’s average earnings in the year before the onset of disability, if the marriage took place before the deceased’s Benefit adjustment: After 2 months, the benefit may be accident. If there is more than one widow, the pension is split adjusted for changes in the average salary and the legal equally among them. minimum wage. The widow(er) pension ceases on remarriage, except if the widow(er) has a child receiving an orphan pension. Permanent Disability Benefits Remarriage settlement: A lump sum equal to 3 years’ pension is Permanent disability pension: If totally disabled, the paid. monthly pension is equal to 100% of the insured’s average Orphan’s pension: The first and second orphan each receive earnings in the year before the onset of disability. 15% of the deceased’s average earnings in the year before the Constant-attendance supplement: Equal to 40% of the onset of disability; 10% for each additional orphan. Full pension. orphans receive 20% each. The orphans must be younger than The maximum pension is equal to 20 times the legal minimum age 14 (age 18 if an apprentice, age 21 if a student or disabled). wage. The monthly legal minimum wage is 28,460 CFA francs. Dependent parent’s and grandparent’s pension: Each Partial disability: The pension is equal to the insured’s average receives 10% of the deceased’s average earnings in the year earnings in the year before the onset of disability multiplied by before the onset of disability, up to a maximum of 30%. 0.5 times the assessed degree of disability for the portion of The minimum earnings for benefit calculation purposes are disability between 10% and 50% and by 1.5 times the assessed equal to 1.3 times the legal minimum wage. The monthly legal degree of disability for the portion above 50%. The pension is minimum wage is equal to 28,460 CFA francs. paid as a lump sum if the assessed disability is less than 10%. Only 1/3 of earnings over 10 times the legal minimum wage is For an assessed degree of disability of 10% or more, the taken into account for benefit calculation purposes. The minimum earnings for benefit calculation purposes are equal to maximum earnings for benefit calculation purposes are 28 times 1.3 times the legal minimum wage. The monthly legal minimum the legal minimum wage. wage is 28,460 CFA francs. The total combined pension for all survivors must not exceed Only 1/3 of earnings over 10 times the legal minimum wage is 85% of the deceased’s average earnings in the year before the taken into account for benefit calculation purposes. The onset of disability; otherwise, all pensions are reduced maximum earnings for benefit calculation purposes are 28 times proportionately. the legal minimum wage. Funeral grant: The cost of the burial up to 1/4 of the annual If the assessed degree of disability is 100%, pensions are paid legal minimum wage. monthly; if the assessed degree of disability is 75% or more, Benefit adjustment: Pensions are adjusted for changes in the monthly or quarterly; otherwise, quarterly or annually. average salary and the legal minimum wage, depending on the If the assessed degree of disability is more than 20%, the financial resources of the system. (The last adjustment was pension may be partially paid as a lump sum after receiving the made in 2001.) pension for 5 years; if the assessed degree of disability is 20% or less, the total remaining pension may be paid as a lump sum Administrative Organization after receiving the pension for 5 years. The insured may be required to undergo medical examinations Ministry of Social Development, Solidarity, and Aged Persons by a doctor approved or designated by the National Social provides general supervision. Security Fund every 6 months during the first 2 years; Managed by a tripartite board and director general, the thereafter, once a year. National Social Insurance Institute administers contributions Benefit adjustment: Pensions paid for an assessed degree of and benefits. disability of more than 10% are adjusted by decree for changes in the average salary and the legal minimum wage, depending on the financial resources of the system. (The last adjustment was made in 2001.) 112 ♦ SSPTW: Africa, 2005 Mali Family Allowances Prenatal allowance: Must undergo prescribed medical examinations. Payable to an insured woman or the wife of an Regulatory Framework insured man. First law: 1955. Birth grant: Must undergo prescribed medical examinations. Payable to an insured woman or the wife of an insured man. Current laws: 1999 (social insurance); and 1999 (voluntary coverage), implemented in 2004. Marriage allowance: Payable to an insured person when marrying for the first time. (Not payable to voluntarily insured Type of program: Employment-related system. persons.) Coverage Family Allowance Benefits Employees with one or more children. Family allowances: 1,000 CFA francs a month for each child. Voluntarily coverage for self-employed persons. Prenatal allowance: 8,235 CFA francs. The allowance is Special system for civil servants. payable in three installments: 1,830 CFA francs, 3,660 CFA francs, and 2,745 CFA francs. Source of Funds Birth grant: 10,980 CFA francs for each birth. The grant is payable in three installments: half the total grant at birth, 1/4 of Insured person: None. the grant when the child is aged 6 months, and 1/4 when the Self-employed person: A voluntary flat-rate contribution of child is aged 12 months. 8% of earnings, according to 5 earnings classes. Marriage allowance: 9,155 CFA francs. The above contributions also finance maternity cash benefits Benefit adjustment: Benefits were last adjusted by decree in under Sickness and Maternity, above. 2003. The minimum earnings for contribution purposes are 125,000 CFA francs a quarter. Administrative Organization The maximum earnings for contribution purposes are 1,000,000 CFA francs a quarter. Ministry of Social Development, Solidarity, and Aged Persons provides general supervision. Employer: 8% of payroll. Managed by a tripartite board and director general, the The above contributions also finance maternity cash benefits National Social Insurance Institute administers the program. under Sickness and Maternity, above. The minimum earnings for contribution purposes are equal to the legal minimum wage. The monthly legal minimum wage is 28,460 CFA francs. Contributions are paid monthly by employers with 10 or more employees or quarterly by employers with 1 to 9 employees. Government: Subsidies to cover any deficits; contributes as an employer for public-sector employees who are not civil servants. Qualifying Conditions Family allowances: The child must be older than 12 months and younger than age 14 (age 18 if an apprentice, age 21 if a student or disabled). Preschool children must undergo prescribed medical examinations. The parent must have 9 consecutive months of insured employment and be currently working 18 days or 120 hours a month; 6 months of insurance coverage for a voluntarily insured parent. The benefit is payable to social insurance pensioners and to the widow(er) of a beneficiary. The benefit is payable abroad only if there is a reciprocal agreement. The child may receive an orphan’s pension. SSPTW: Africa, 2005 ♦ 113 Mauritania Survivor pension: Payable to eligible survivors if the Mauritania deceased was a pensioner, met the qualifying conditions for anold-age pension or a disability pension, or had 180 months of Exchange rate: US$1.00 equals 269.80 ouguiyas. insurance coverage at the time of death. Survivor settlement: Payable to eligible survivors if the deceased did not meet the qualifying conditions for a pension. Old Age, Disability, and Survivors Eligible survivors are a widow aged 50 or older or disabled or a dependent disabled widower and children younger than age 14 Regulatory Framework (age 21 if a student, no limit if disabled). First law: 1965. Current law: 1967 (social security). Old-Age Benefits Type of program: Social insurance system. Old-age pension: The pension is equal to 20% of average monthly earnings in the last 3 or 5 years (whichever is higher), Coverage plus 1.33% for each 12-month period of insurance coveragebeyond 180 months. Wage earners, including temporary and occasional workers; The maximum monthly earnings for benefit calculation seamen; domestic workers; trainees; apprentices; and technical purposes are 70,000 ouguiyas. college students. The minimum pension is 60% of the highest minimum wage. Voluntary coverage for persons previously insured for at least 6 consecutive months. The maximum pension is 80% of average monthly earnings. Special systems for civil servants and armed forces personnel. Benefit adjustment: Benefits are adjusted periodically according to changes in the cost of living and the financial resources of the National Social Security Fund. (The last Source of Funds adjustment was made in January 1998.) Insured person: 1% of gross earnings. Old-age settlement: A lump sum equal to 1 month’s wages The maximum monthly earnings for contribution purposes are for each year of insurance coverage. 70,000 ouguiyas. The maximum monthly earnings for benefit calculation Self-employed person: Not applicable. purposes are 70,000 ouguiyas. Employer: 2% of gross monthly payroll. The maximum monthly earnings for contribution purposes are Permanent Disability Benefits 70,000 ouguiyas. Disability pension: The pension is equal to 20% of average Employers with 20 or more employees pay contributions on a monthly earnings in the last 3 or 5 years (whichever is higher), monthly basis; employers with fewer than 20 employees pay plus 1.33% for each 12-month period of insurance coverage contributions on a quarterly basis. beyond 180 months. For each year that a claim is made before age 60 (men) or age 55 (women), the insured is credited with a Government: None. 6-month insurance coverage period. The maximum monthly earnings for benefit calculation Qualifying Conditions purposes are 70,000 ouguiyas. Old-age pension: Age 60 (men) or age 55 (women) with The minimum pension is 60% of the highest minimum wage. 20 years of insurance coverage, including 60 months of The maximum pension is 80% of average monthly earnings. contributions in the last 10 years (including those made under the previous program). The pensionable age is reduced by Constant-attendance supplement: Equal to 50% of the 5 years if the insured is prematurely aged. Employment must pension. cease. Benefit adjustment: Benefits are adjusted periodically The pension is payable abroad only if there is a reciprocal according to changes in the cost of living and the financial agreement. resources of the National Social Security Fund. (The last adjustment was made in January 1998.) Old-age settlement: Payable if the insured does not meet the qualifying conditions for a pension. The permanent loss of 2/3 of earning Survivor BenefitsDisability pension: capacity with 5 years of insurance coverage, including Survivor pension: 50% of the deceased’s pension is payable 6 months of contributions in the last 12 months. There is no to the widow(er). qualifying period if the disability is the result of a Orphan’s pension: 25% of the deceased’s pension is payable nonoccupational accident. for each eligible orphan; 40% for each full orphan. 114 ♦ SSPTW: Africa, 2005 Mauritania The total survivor pension must not exceed 100% of the Sickness and Maternity Benefits deceased’s pension. Sickness benefit: No statutory benefits are provided. Survivor settlement: A lump sum equal to 1 month of the deceased’s pension for each 6-month period of insurance Maternity benefit: The benefit is equal to 100% of average coverage. daily earnings received in the 3 calendar months before work ceased. The benefit is payable for up to 14 weeks, including Benefit adjustment: Benefits are adjusted periodically 8 weeks after the date of childbirth. according to changes in the cost of living and the financial resources of the National Social Security Fund. (The last The maximum monthly earnings for benefit calculation adjustment was made in January 1998.) purposes are 70,000 ouguiyas. Administrative Organization Workers’ Medical Benefits Ministry of Civil Service and Employment provides general Employers provide medical services for employees through the supervision. employer medical service program or through the joint interemployer medical service program for firms with fewer than Managed by a tripartite board, the National Social Security 750 workers. Fund administers the program. Dependents’ Medical Benefits Sickness and Maternity Employers provide medical services for employees’ Regulatory Framework dependents through the employer medical service program or through the joint interemployer medical service program for First laws: 1952 (cash maternity benefits) and 1963 (medical firms with fewer than 750 workers. benefits). Some maternity, child health, and welfare services are also Current laws: 1967 (cash maternity benefits) and 1976 provided under Family Allowances, below. (medical benefits). Type of program: Social insurance system. Cash maternity Administrative Organization and medical benefits. Ministry of Civil Service and Employment provides general supervision. Coverage Managed by a tripartite board, the National Social Security Cash maternity benefits: Employed women. Fund administers the program. Medical benefits: Employed persons covered under the labor code and their dependents. Work Injury Source of Funds Regulatory Framework Insured person: None. First law: 1932. Self-employed person: Not applicable. Current law: 1967. Employer: 2% of gross monthly payroll. Type of program: Social insurance system. The maximum monthly earnings for contribution purposes are 70,000 ouguiyas. Coverage Employers with 20 or more employees pay contributions on a Wage earners, including temporary and occasional workers; monthly basis; employers with fewer than 20 employees pay seamen; domestic workers; trainees; apprentices; and technical contributions on a quarterly basis. college students. Government: None. Special systems for civil servants and armed forces members. All of the above contributions finance medical benefits only. Cash maternity benefits are financed under Family Allowances, Source of Funds below. Insured person: None. Qualifying Conditions Self-employed person: Not applicable. Cash sickness benefits: No statutory benefits are provided. Employer: 3% of gross monthly payroll; 2.5% of grossmonthly payroll if the employer provides medical care and Cash maternity benefits: Twelve months of insurance temporary disability benefits. coverage and 54 days of employment in the last 3 months. SSPTW: Africa, 2005 ♦ 115 Mauritania The maximum monthly earnings for contribution purposes are Funeral grant: Equal to 30 days’ earnings. 70,000 ouguiyas. Employers with 20 or more employees pay contributions on a Administrative Organization monthly basis; employers with fewer than 20 employees pay contributions on a quarterly basis. Ministry of Civil Service and Employment provides general supervision. Government: None. Managed by a tripartite board, the National Social Security Fund administers the program. Qualifying Conditions Work injury benefits: There is no minimum qualifying period. Family Allowances Temporary Disability Benefits Regulatory Framework The benefit is equal to 2/3 of average daily earnings. The First law: 1965. benefit is payable from the day following the onset of disability Current law: 1967. until full recovery or certification of permanent disability. Type of program: Employment-related system. The maximum monthly earnings for benefit calculation purposes are 70,000 ouguiyas. Coverage Permanent Disability Benefits Employed persons. Special systems for civil servants and armed forces members. Permanent disability pension: If totally disabled, the pension is equal to 85% of average monthly earnings. The maximum monthly earnings for benefit calculation Source of Funds purposes are 70,000 ouguiyas. Insured person: None. Constant-attendance supplement: Equal to 50% of the Self-employed person: Not applicable. pension. Employer: 8% of gross monthly payroll. Partial disability: The benefit equals a percentage of the full The maximum monthly earnings for contribution purposes are pension according to the assessed degree of disability; if the 70,000 ouguiyas. assessed degree of disability is less than 15%, a lump sum equal to 3 years’ pension is paid. Employers with 20 or more employees pay contributions on a monthly basis; employers with fewer than 20 employees pay Benefit adjustment: Benefits are adjusted periodically contributions on a quarterly basis. according to changes in the cost of living and the financial resources of the National Social Security Fund. (The last The employer contributions also finance cash maternity adjustment was made on October 1975.) benefits under Sickness and Maternity, above. Government: None. Workers’ Medical Benefits Benefits include medical and surgical care, hospitalization, Qualifying Conditions house calls, medicines, appliances, transportation, and Family allowances: The child must be younger than age 14 rehabilitation. (age 21 if an apprentice, a student, or disabled). The parent must work 18 days a month or be the widow of a beneficiary. Survivor Benefits Prenatal allowance grant: Must undergo prescribed medical 20% of the deceased’s average monthly examinations.Survivor pension: earnings is payable to a widow or a disabled widower. Birth grant: Must undergo prescribed medical examinations. Orphan’s pension: 10% of deceased’s average monthly earnings is payable for each orphan younger than age 14 Family Allowance Benefits (age 21 if an apprentice, a student, or disabled); 15% for each Family allowances: 300 ouguiyas a month for each child. full orphan. (Orphans are also entitled to benefits under Family Allowances, below.) Prenatal allowance: 240 ouguiyas for each month of pregnancy. The allowance is paid in three installments. Dependent parent’s and grandparent’s pension: 10% of deceased’s average monthly earnings each. Birth grant: A lump sum of 2,880 ouguiyas for each of the first three births. The total survivor pension must not exceed 100% of the deceased’s pension. Some maternity, child health, and welfare services are also provided. 116 ♦ SSPTW: Africa, 2005 Mauritania Benefit adjustment: Benefits are adjusted periodically according to changes in the cost of living and the financial resources of the National Social Security Fund. (The last adjustment was made in 1992.) Administrative Organization Ministry of Civil Service and Employment provides general supervision. Managed by a tripartite board, the National Social Security Fund administers the program. SSPTW: Africa, 2005 ♦ 117 Mauritius 8.5% on behalf of employees contributing at the higher rate Mauritius (excludes millers and large employers in the sugar industry). Exchange rate: US$1.00 equals All of the above employer contributions also finance work 28.24 rupees (Rs). injury benefits. The minimum monthly earnings for contribution purposes are Rs1,095; Rs655 for domestic employees. Old Age, Disability, and Survivors The maximum monthly earnings for contribution purposes are Regulatory Framework Rs7,205. First law: 1951. Government Current law: 1976 (national pensions), with amendments. Universal pension (universal): Total cost. Type of program: Universal and social insurance system. Earnings-related pension (social insurance): Any deficit. Note: Benefits under the universal program are subject to an income test for residents aged 60 to 90. Qualifying Conditions Old-age pension Coverage Basic old-age pension (universal): Age 60 with at least Basic pension (universal): All residents. 12 years of residence after age 18 for Mauritian nationals. There is no residence requirement if aged 70 or older. Earnings-related pension (social insurance): All private- Noncitizens must have lived in the country for at least 15 years and public-sector employees older than age 18 and citizens of since age 40, including the 3 years immediately before the date Mauritius; noncitizens with valid work permits and at least of claim. Retirement is not necessary. 2 years of residence in Mauritius. The pension is payable abroad only if there is a reciprocal Voluntary coverage under the earnings-related program for agreement. those not covered compulsorily, including the self-employed and nonemployed persons. Enhanced basic old-age pension (universal): Payable to beneficiaries of the basic old-age pension who are totally blind, Special systems for public-sector employees and certain totally disabled, or need constant care and attention. occupations with equivalent private programs. Carer’s allowance (universal): Payable to beneficiaries of the basic old-age pension assessed as at least 60% disabled and in Source of Funds need of the constant care and attention of another person. Insured person Inmate allowance (universal): Payable to inmates of Basic pension (universal): None. government subsidized institutions, provided that they would have been entitled to a basic old-age pension before their Earnings-related pension (social insurance): 3% or 5% of admission to such an institution. earnings (the higher rate of contributions is dependent on employer agreement, wages being paid monthly, and Earnings-related pension (social insurance): Age 60 and employment in a specified sector). Nonemployed persons may insured. Retirement is not necessary. There is no minimum contribute voluntarily with minimum monthly contributions of qualifying period, but contributions are required in the year Rs55, up to a maximum of Rs390. before making the claim. The minimum monthly earnings for contribution purposes are Early pension: There is no early pension for insured persons Rs1,095; Rs655 for domestic employees. except those working in the sugar industry (payable from age 55 for men or age 50 for women). The maximum monthly earnings for contribution purposes are Rs7,205. Deferred pension: The pension can be deferred until age 65. Self-employed person Disability pension Basic pension (universal): None. Basic disability pension (universal): Aged 15 to 59, insured, and assessed with at least a 60% disability that is expected to Earnings-related pension (social insurance): The minimum last at least 12 months. There is no residence requirement for monthly contribution is Rs55; the maximum monthly Mauritian nationals; noncitizens must satisfy a residence contribution is Rs390. requirement. Employer The degree of disability is assessed by a medical board set up Basic pension (universal): None. by the Ministry. Earnings-related pension (social insurance): 6% of payroll; Carer’s allowance (universal): Payable to beneficiaries of the 10.5% for millers and large employers in the sugar industry; basic disability pension who need the constant care and 118 ♦ SSPTW: Africa, 2005 Mauritius attention of another person. The allowance is payable for Carer’s allowance: Rs1,330 a month is payable in addition to disabled children younger than age 15 if their parents’ annual the basic old-age pension. income does not exceed Rs100,000. For beneficiaries aged 60 to 90 with individual income over Child allowance (universal): Payable for the first three children Rs208,000, all of the above benefits are reduced by 50% of one- of a basic disability pensioner. Children must be younger than twelfth of the amount exceeding this threshold. age 15; age 20 if a full-time student. Inmate’s allowance: Rs325 a month. Earnings-related disability pension (social insurance): Earnings-related old-age pension (social insurance): The Payable if the insured is assessed with at least a 60% disability pension is calculated on the basis of pension points that are that is expected to last for at least 12 months. awarded in exchange for contributions. At retirement, the The degree of disability is assessed by a medical board set up pension points are converted to a pension. The value of by the Ministry. pension points is set by the government. Additional disability pension (social insurance): Payable to Benefit adjustment: Pensions are adjusted annually in July elderly disability pensioners who have a permanent disability according to changes in the cost of living. of 100% and to persons who have a permanent disability of at least 60% and require constant care. Permanent Disability Benefits Survivor pension Disability pension Basic widow pension (universal): Payable to a widow Basic disability pension (universal): Rs1,900 a month. younger than age 60 (widowers are not eligible). Noncitizen Carer’s allowance: Rs1,150 a month is payable in addition to widows must have at least 5 years of residence in the 10 years the basic disability pension. before the date of the claim. Child allowance: Rs615 a month is payable in addition to the The pension ceases on remarriage. basic disability pension for a child younger than age 10; Rs660 Child allowance (universal): Payable for the first three children if aged 10 or older. of a basic widow pensioner. Children must be younger than For beneficiaries with individual income over Rs208,000, all of age 15; age 20 if a full-time student. the above benefits are reduced by 50% of one-twelfth of the The child allowance does not cease if the widow remarries. amount exceeding this threshold. Orphan pension (universal): Payable to a full orphan younger Earnings-related disability pension (social insurance): The than age 15; age 20 if a full-time student. maximum monthly pension is 20 times the average annual Guardian allowance (universal): Payable to the person number of pension points times the value of one pension point rearing an orphan. If the guardian is a noncitizen, he or she divided by 12. The value of pension points is set by the must have at least 5 years of residence in the 10 years before government. the claim, including the year before the claim. The allowance is Additional disability pension (social insurance): Rs1,790 a payable for a maximum of one orphan only. month is payable in addition to the earnings-related disability Earnings-related widow pension (social insurance): The pension. deceased met the requirements for a pension or was a Benefit adjustment: Pensions are adjusted annually in July pensioner at the time of death. according to changes in the cost of living. The pension ceases on remarriage. Earnings-related orphan pension (social insurance): Paid to Survivor Benefits a full orphan younger than age 15 (age 18 if a full-time student) Survivor pension if either of the deceased parents had paid contributions. Basic widow pension (universal): Rs1,900 a month. Earnings-related survivor pensions are payable abroad, subject to conditions. Child allowance: Rs615 a month is payable in addition to the basic widow pension for a child younger than age 10; Rs660 a month for a child aged 10 or older. Old-Age Benefits Orphan pension (universal): Rs1,050 a month for a full orphan Old-age pension younger than age 15; age 20 if a full-time student. Basic old-age pension (universal): The monthly value of the Guardian allowance (universal): Rs465 a month is payable to pension increases with age. For ages 60 to 69, Rs1,900 a the person rearing an orphan. month; for ages 70 to 89, Rs2,000; for ages 90 to 99, Rs6,850; For beneficiaries with individual income over Rs208,000, all of for ages 100 or older, Rs7,795. the above benefits are reduced by 50% of one-twelfth of the Enhanced basic old-age pension: Rs1,270 a month is payable amount exceeding this threshold. in addition to the basic old-age pension. Earnings-related widow pension (social insurance): For a widow younger than age 60, the maximum pension is 20 times SSPTW: Africa, 2005 ♦ 119 Mauritius the average annual number of pension points times the value Coverage of one pension point divided by 12. The value of pension points is set by the government. The pension is reduced by All employees aged 15 or older in insured employment. one-third after 12 months if there are no dependent children. A Exclusions: Persons working exclusively on weekends or widow aged 60 or older receives 100% of the deceased’s public holidays. pension. Special systems for public-sector employees and certain other There is no minimum pension. occupations. Remarriage settlement (social insurance): A lump sum equal to 12 months’ widow pension is paid. Source of Funds Earnings-related orphan pension: 15% of the deceased’s Insured person: None. pension is payable for a full orphan. Self-employed person: Not applicable. Benefit adjustment: Pensions are adjusted annually in July according to changes in the cost of living. Employer: See source of funds under Old Age, Disability, andSurvivors, above. Government: None. Administrative Organization Ministry of Social Security, National Solidarity, and Senior Qualifying Conditions Citizens Welfare and Reform Institutions (http:// socialsecurity.gov.mu) provides general supervision. Work injury benefits: There is no minimum qualifying period. National Pensions Board, composed of government, employer, and employee representatives, advises the Minister of Social Temporary Disability Benefits Security, National Solidarity, and Senior Citizens Welfare and The benefit is equal to 80% of the insured’s monthly earnings. Reform Institutions. The benefit is payable from the third week of incapacity. (The Ministry of Finance (http://mof.gov.mu) is responsible for the employer pays 100% of the insured’s earnings for the first investment of surplus assets of the National Pensions Fund. 2 weeks.) The maximum period of payment is 36 months from the date of the accident; may be extended if surgery is Sickness and Maternity required. Constant-attendance allowance: Rs342 a month for a 100% Regulatory Framework temporary disability requiring the constant attendance of another person. Note: This information is from 1999. The degree of disability is assessed by a medical board set up No statutory benefits are provided. by the Ministry. The 1975 Labor Act requires employers to provide up to 21 days of paid sick leave to employees who have been in their Permanent Disability Benefits continuous employment for at least 12 months. The 1975 Labor Act requires employers to provide 12 weeks of If totally disabled (100%), the pension is equal to 80% of paid maternity leave (6 weeks before and 6 weeks after the monthly insurable earnings. expected date of childbirth) to employees who have been in Optionally, a lump sum is payable to totally disabled workers their continuous employment for at least 12 months. aged 52 to 60. The lump sum is calculated as the assessed Medical services are available free to the population at degree of disability times the insured’s average annual government dispensaries and hospitals. (Some mother and earnings times the number of years (up to a maximum of 8) for child health services and financial assistance to needy persons which the pension is awarded. are provided under family allowances.) Partial disability: Must be assessed as at least 1% disabled. The pension is equal to 65% of the insured’s monthly insurable Work Injury earnings times the assessed degree of disability. If the assessed degree of disability is less than 20%, a lump Regulatory Framework sum is paid. The lump sum is calculated as the assessed degree of disability times the insured’s average annual First law: 1931. earnings times the number of years (up to a maximum of 8) for Current law: 1976 (national pensions), with amendments. which the pension is awarded. Type of program: Social insurance system. Constant-attendance allowance: Rs342 a month for a 100% permanent disability requiring the constant attendance of another person. 120 ♦ SSPTW: Africa, 2005 Mauritius The degree of disability is assessed by a medical board set up Qualifying Conditions by the Ministry. Unemployment benefits (income-tested): Registered as Benefit adjustment: Benefits are adjusted annually in July unemployed for 30 days at the employment exchange, willing according to changes in the cost of living. and able to work, and actively seeking employment. Workers’ Medical Benefits Unemployment Benefits Benefits include medical and surgical care, hospitalization, Unemployment hardship relief benefit (income-tested): medicines, appliances, transportation, and the cost of private Rs220 a month is payable to the claimant. clinical expenses not exceeding Rs4,000. Spouse allowance (income-tested): Rs220 a month. Survivor Benefits Child allowance (income-tested): Rs85 a month for each childyounger than age 10; Rs100 for each child aged 10 to 14; and Survivor pension: 50% of the deceased’s earnings are Rs145 for each child aged 15 to 19 in full-time education or payable to a widow; 60% for a permanently disabled widower. disabled and dependent. The widow pension ceases on remarriage. Rent allowance (income-tested): 50% of the rent paid by the Orphan’s pension: 7.5% of either deceased parent’s average claimant, up to a maximum of Rs170. monthly insured earnings (whichever is higher) are payable for The minimum unemployment hardship relief benefit is Rs120. each full orphan younger than age 15; age 18 if a full-time Benefit adjustment: Benefits are normally adjusted annually in student. July according to changes in the cost of living. Dependent’s pension: In the absence of a surviving spouse, a dependent person living in the insured’s household receives Administrative Organization Rs342 a month. Funeral grant: A lump sum covering the cost of burial, if there Ministry of Social Security, National Solidarity, and Senior are no dependents. Citizens Welfare and Reform Institutions (http:// socialsecurity.gov.mu) administers the program. Benefit adjustment: Benefits are adjusted annually in July according to changes in the cost of living. Family Allowances Administrative Organization Regulatory Framework Ministry of Social Security, National Solidarity, and Senior First and current laws: 1961 (family allowances) and 2003 Citizens Welfare and Reform Institutions (http:// (social aid). socialsecurity.gov.mu) administers the program. Type of program: Social assistance system. Unemployment Coverage Regulatory Framework Family allowances: Needy families with three or more First and current law: 1983 (unemployment). children. Type of program: Social assistance system. Social aid benefits: Needy individuals and families. Coverage Source of Funds Household heads younger than age 60 and their dependents. Insured person: None. Self-employed person: None. Source of Funds Employer: None. Insured person: None. Government: Total cost. Self-employed person: None. Qualifying Conditions Employer: None. Government: Total cost. Family allowances (income-tested): Children must be younger than age 15. Annual family income is income-tested. Social aid benefits (income-tested): Individuals and families who satisfy an income test. SSPTW: Africa, 2005 ♦ 121 Mauritius Family Allowance Benefits Family allowances (income-tested): A monthly benefit of Rs50 for families with three or more children younger than age 15 and with annual family income less than Rs10,000. Social aid benefits (income-tested) Claimant allowance: A maximum of Rs690 a month. Spouse allowance: A maximum of Rs690 a month. Child allowance: A maximum of Rs265 for each child younger than age 10; Rs325 if younger than age 15; Rs405 if younger than age 20 and a full-time student; Rs690 if younger than age 20, disabled, and not receiving a benefit under the National Pension Act. Compassionate allowance: A maximum of Rs405 a month is payable to persons suffering from a serious illness certified by a medical doctor. Rent allowance: Equal to 50% of the rent paid, up to a maximum of Rs520. Medical benefits: Social aid beneficiaries are eligible for free medical services, a carer’s allowance, and a refund of costs for traveling to attend medical treatment. Funeral grant: A lump sum of Rs2,610 for the cost of the funeral for the claimant or his or her dependents. Benefit adjustment: Benefits are adjusted annually in July according to changes in the cost of living. Administrative Organization Ministry of Social Security, National Solidarity, and Senior Citizens Welfare and Reform Institutions (http:// socialsecurity.gov.mu) administers the program. 122 ♦ SSPTW: Africa, 2005 Morocco Early pension: An early pension is possible at age 55 with Morocco 3,240 days of insurance coverage if the employer agrees to paythe National Social Security Fund an amount equivalent to the Exchange rate: US$1.00 equals 8.47 dirhams. value of the pension. Disability pension: Total loss of earning capacity resulting from a nonoccupational injury with 1,080 days of insurance Old Age, Disability, and Survivors coverage, including 108 days in the 12 calendar months before the onset of disability. There is no minimum qualifying period Regulatory Framework for a disability resulting from an accident. First law: 1959. Survivor pension: The deceased met the contribution conditions for the disability pension or was a pensioner at the Current laws: 1972 (social security scheme), 1981 (agricultural time of death. and forestry workers), and 2004 (early retirement). Eligible survivors are the widow(er) and orphans younger than Type of program: Social insurance system. age 15 (age 18 if an apprentice, age 21 if a student, no limit if disabled). Coverage Salaried workers and apprentices in industry, commerce, Old-Age Benefits forestry, agricultural cooperatives, and associations; persons Old-age pension: The pension is equal to 50% of average employed by craftsmen or some categories of the self- monthly earnings during the last 96 months, plus 1% for every employed; persons employed by landlords; and some 216 days of insurance beyond 3,240 days, up to a maximum of categories of fishermen. 70%. Exclusions: The self-employed. The maximum average monthly earnings for benefit calculation Voluntary coverage for persons previously insured. purposes are 6,000 dirhams. Special systems for civil servants and for certain other The minimum pension is equal to 50% of average monthly categories of employees. earnings. The maximum pension is equal to 70% of average monthly Source of Funds earnings. Insured person: 3.96% of gross monthly earnings. Benefits are paid monthly or quarterly, depending on the insured’s choice. The minimum monthly earnings for contribution purposes are equal to the legal minimum wage. The legal minimum wage is Benefit adjustment: Pensions are adjusted periodically. (The 1,841.84 dirhams a month in the nonagricultural sector and last adjustment was made in March 2002.) 1,183 dirhams a month in the agricultural sector. The maximum monthly earnings for contribution purposes are Permanent Disability Benefits 6,000 dirhams (April 2002). Disability pension: The pension is equal to 50% of average Self-employed person: Not applicable. monthly earnings during the last 96 months, plus 1% for every Employer: 7.93% of gross monthly payroll. 216 days of insurance beyond 3,240 days, up to a maximum of 70%. The minimum monthly earnings for contribution purposes are equal to the legal minimum wage. The legal minimum wage is The maximum average monthly earnings for benefit calculation 1,841.84 dirhams a month in the nonagricultural sector and purposes are 6,000 dirhams. 1,183 dirhams a month in the agricultural sector. The minimum pension is equal to 500 dirhams. The maximum monthly earnings for contribution purposes are The maximum pension is equal to 70% of average monthly 6,000 dirhams (April 2002). earnings. Government: None. Constant-attendance supplement: 10% of average monthly earnings. Qualifying Conditions Benefits are paid monthly or quarterly, depending on the insured’s choice. Old-age pension: Age 60 (age 55 for miners with 5 or more years of underground work) and 3,240 days of insurance Benefit adjustment: Pensions are adjusted periodically. (The coverage. Retirement from employment is necessary. last adjustment was made in March 2002.) Insured persons who do not meet the insurance coverage condition at the pensionable age can continue working or contribute on a voluntary basis. SSPTW: Africa, 2005 ♦ 123 Morocco Survivor Benefits Government: None. Survivor pension: 50% of the deceased’s pension is payable to the widow(er). Qualifying Conditions Orphan’s pension: 25% of the deceased’s pension is payable Cash sickness benefits: For the first claim, 54 days of for each eligible orphan; 50% for each full orphan. contributions in the previous 6 calendar months of insurance The maximum survivor pension is 100% of the deceased’s coverage; 6 days of contributions for subsequent claims. pension. There is no minimum qualifying period for a nonoccupational accident. Funeral grant: 10,000 dirhams. Cash maternity benefits: Must have 54 days of Benefit adjustment: Pensions are adjusted periodically. (The contributions during the 10 calendar months before the last adjustment was made in March 2002.) expected date of childbirth. Administrative Organization Sickness and Maternity Benefits Ministry of Social Development, Solidarity, Employment, and Sickness benefit: The benefit is 2/3 of the average daily Vocational Training provides general supervision. insurable salary received during the last 3, 2, or 1 calendar Managed by a tripartite board and director general, the months before the onset of the incapacity, whichever is higher; National Social Security Fund (http://www.cnss.ma) during the 6 calendar months before the onset of the administers the program. incapacity for a first claim to benefits. The benefit is payable from the fourth day of incapacity. Sickness and Maternity The minimum benefit is 2/3 of the legal minimum wage. The legal minimum wage is 1,841.84 dirhams. Regulatory Framework The maximum average monthly earnings for benefit calculation First law: 1959. purposes are 6,000 dirhams. Current laws: 1972 (social security scheme); 1981 (agricultural Maternity benefit: The benefit is 100% of the average daily and forestry workers); and 2002 (basic health coverage), insurable salary received during the 6 calendar months before implemented in 2005. the expected date of childbirth. The benefit is payable for 14 weeks. Type of program: Social insurance system. The minimum benefit is 2/3 of the legal minimum wage. The legal minimum wage is 1,841.84 dirhams. Coverage The maximum average monthly earnings for benefit calculation Salaried workers and apprentices in industry, commerce, purposes are 6,000 dirhams. forestry, agricultural cooperatives, and associations; persons employed by craftsmen or by some categories of the self- Workers’ Medical Benefits employed; persons employed by landlords; and some categories of fishermen. Basic health care is provided. Exclusions: The self-employed. Special systems for civil servants and for certain other Dependents’ Medical Benefits categories of employees. Basic health care is provided. Source of Funds Administrative Organization Insured person: 0.33% of gross monthly earnings. Ministry of Social Development, Solidarity, Employment, and The minimum monthly earnings for contribution purposes are Vocational Training provides general supervision. equal to the legal minimum wage. Managed by a tripartite board and director general, the The maximum monthly earnings for contribution purposes are National Social Security Fund (http://www.cnss.ma) 6,000 dirhams (April 2002). administers the program. Self-employed person: Not applicable. Employer: 0.67% of gross monthly payroll. Work Injury The minimum monthly earnings for contribution purposes are Regulatory Framework equal to the legal minimum wage. The maximum monthly earnings for contribution purposes are First law: 1927. 6,000 dirhams (April 2002). Current law: 1963. 124 ♦ SSPTW: Africa, 2005 Morocco Type of program: Employer-liability system, involving Survivor Benefits compulsory insurance with a private carrier. Survivor pension: 30% of the deceased’s average insurable earnings is payable to a widow younger than age 60; 50% if Coverage aged 60 or older. Salaried workers. Orphan’s pension: 15% of the deceased’s average insurable Special system for civil servants. earnings for each of the first two orphans younger than age 16 (age 18 if an apprentice, age 21 if a student or disabled) and 10% each for other orphans; 20% for each full orphan. Source of Funds Other eligible survivors (in the absence of the above): Insured person: None. Parents, grandparents, and certain other dependents. Self-employed person: Not applicable. The maximum survivor pension is 85% of the deceased’s Employer: Total cost met through the direct provision of average insurable earnings. benefits or the payment of insurance premiums. The maximum annual earnings for benefit calculation purposes Government: None. are 65,507 dirhams. Funeral grant: The employer pays the full cost of the burial. Qualifying Conditions Work injury benefits: There is no minimum qualifying period. Administrative Organization Ministry of Social Development, Solidarity, Employment, and Temporary Disability Benefits Vocational Training provides general supervision and enforces the law through its Work Accident Service. The benefit is 50% of covered earnings during the first 28 days of disability; thereafter, 2/3 of earnings. The benefit is payable Courts award benefits. from the day after the onset of disability until full recovery or certification of permanent disability. Family Allowances The minimum annual earnings for benefit calculation purposes are 16,474 dirhams. Regulatory Framework The maximum annual earnings for benefit calculation purposes First laws: 1942 and 1959. are 65,507 dirhams. Current law: 1972 (social security scheme). Type of program: Employment-related system. Permanent Disability Benefits Permanent disability pension: If totally disabled, the Coverage pension is 100% of average insurable earnings. Salaried workers and apprentices in industry, commerce, and Partial disability: Average insurable earnings multiplied by cooperatives; and persons employed by craftsmen or by some 0.5 times the assessed degree of disability for the portion of categories of the self-employed. disability between 10% and 50% and by 1.5 times the assessed degree of disability for the portion above 50%. Exclusions: Agricultural and forestry workers and the self- employed. For an assessed degree of disability of less than 10%, a lump sum is paid. Special systems for civil servants and for certain categories of employees. The minimum annual pension is 16,474 dirhams. The maximum annual earnings for benefit calculation purposes Source of Funds are 65,507 dirhams. Constant-attendance supplement: Equal to 40% of the Insured person: None. disability pension. Self-employed person: Not applicable. Employer: 7.5% of gross payroll. Workers’ Medical Benefits Government: None. Benefits include medical, surgical, and hospital care; medicines; and transportation. Qualifying Conditions Family allowances: The insured must have 108 days of contributions during the previous 6 months of insurance coverage, with earnings of at least 500 dirhams a month. SSPTW: Africa, 2005 ♦ 125 Morocco Eligible children must be younger than age 12 (age 18 if an apprentice, age 21 if a student or a young female relative caring for at least two infants in the insured’s household, no limit if disabled). The child may be legitimate, natural, adopted, or fostered and must reside in Morocco. Family Allowance Benefits Family allowances: 150 dirhams a month for each of the first three children; 36 dirhams a month for each additional child up to the sixth. Benefits are paid monthly. Benefit adjustment: Benefits are adjusted periodically. (The last adjustment was made in March 2002.) Administrative Organization Ministry of Social Development, Solidarity, Employment, and Vocational Training provides general supervision. Managed by a tripartite board and director general, the National Social Security Fund (http://www.cnss.ma) administers the program. Employers may pay allowances provided by the National Social Security Fund directly to employees. 126 ♦ SSPTW: Africa, 2005 Niger Disability pension: A loss of 2/3 of earning capacity and Niger registered with the National Social Security Fund for at least 5 years with 6 months of insurance coverage in the 12 months Exchange rate: US$1.00 equals before the onset of disability. There is no minimum qualifying 493.54 CFA francs. period for a nonoccupational accident. Must be in insured employment at the time of the accident. Old Age, Disability, and Survivors Pensions are payable abroad only if there is a reciprocal agreement. Regulatory Framework Survivor pension: The deceased met the qualifying First and current law: 1967 (old age, disability, and conditions for the old-age pension or disability pension, was a survivors), with 1989 and 1998 amendments. pensioner at the time of death, or had 180 months of insurance coverage. Type of program: Social insurance system. Eligible survivors are a widow aged 50 or older or disabled (a dependent disabled widower) who was married to the deceased Coverage at least a year before the insured’s date of death and orphans Employed persons, technical students, and apprentices. younger than age 14 (age 18 if an apprentice, age 21 if a student or disabled). Voluntary coverage for persons previously insured for at least 6 consecutive months. Pensions are payable abroad only if there is a reciprocal agreement. Special system for civil servants. Survivor settlement: The deceased did not meet the qualifying conditions for a disability pension and had fewer Source of Funds than 180 months of insurance coverage. Insured person: 1.6% of gross earnings. The minimum monthly earnings for contribution and benefit Old-Age Benefits purposes are equal to the legal minimum wage (18,898 CFA Old-age pension: The pension is equal to 20% of the francs a month). insured’s average covered earnings in the last 3 or 5 years The maximum monthly earnings for contribution and benefit (whichever is higher), plus 1.33% of average covered earnings purposes are 250,000 CFA francs. for each 12-month period of insurance coverage beyond Self-employed person: Not applicable. 180 months. Employer: 2.4% of gross payroll. The minimum pension is equal to 60% of the legal minimum wage. The minimum monthly earnings for contribution and benefit purposes are equal to the legal minimum wage (18,898 CFA The maximum pension is equal to 80% of the insured’s average francs a month). covered earnings in the last 3 or 5 years (whichever is higher). The maximum monthly earnings for contribution and benefit The pension is paid quarterly. purposes are 250,000 CFA francs. Old-age settlement: A lump sum equal to 1 month of the Contributions are paid monthly by employers with 20 or more insured’s average covered earnings in the last 3 or 5 years employees or quarterly by employers with 1 to 19 employees. (whichever is higher) for each year of insurance coverage. Government: None; contributes as an employer for public- Benefit adjustment: Pensions are adjusted by decree for sector employees who are not civil servants. changes in the cost of living and the legal minimum wage, depending on the financial resources of the system. Qualifying Conditions Permanent Disability Benefits Old-age pension: Age 60 (age 58 for covered public-sector workers, age 55 if prematurely aged) and registered with the Disability pension: The pension is equal to 20% of the National Social Security Fund for at least 20 years with insured’s average covered earnings in the last 3 or 5 years 60 months of insurance coverage in the last 10 years. (whichever is higher), plus 1.33% of average covered earnings Retirement from employment is necessary. for every 12-month period of insurance coverage beyond 180 months. A 6-month insurance coverage period is credited Pensions are payable abroad only if there is a reciprocal for each year that a claim is made before age 60 (age 58 for agreement. covered public-sector workers). Old-age settlement: Age 60 (age 58 for covered public-sector The minimum pension is equal to 60% of the legal minimum workers, age 55 if prematurely aged) with 12 months of wage. insurance coverage and ineligible for the old-age pension. Retirement from employment is necessary. The maximum pension is equal to 80% of the insured’s average covered earnings in the last 3 or 5 years (whichever is higher). SSPTW: Africa, 2005 ♦ 127 Niger Constant-attendance supplement: Equal to 50% of the Coverage disability pension. Employed women. The disability pension ceases at age 60 (age 58 for covered public-sector workers) and is replaced by an old-age pension of the same value. Source of Funds The insured may be required to undergo medical examination Insured person: None. by a doctor approved or designated by the National Social Self-employed person: Not applicable. Security Fund every 6 months in the first 2 years; thereafter, once a year. Employer: See source of funds under Family Allowances,below. Benefit adjustment: Pensions are adjusted by decree for changes in the cost of living and the legal minimum wage, Government: None. depending on the financial resources of the system. Qualifying Conditions Survivor Benefits Cash sickness benefits: No statutory benefits are provided. (The labor code requires employers to provide paid sick leave.) Survivor pension: 50% of the deceased’s pension is payable to an eligible widow(er). If there is more than one widow, the Cash maternity benefits: Six months of covered employment. pension is split equally among them. The widow(er) pension ceases on remarriage. Sickness and Maternity Benefits Orphan’s pension: The pension is equal to 25% of the Sickness benefit: No statutory benefits are provided. (The deceased’s pension for each orphan; 40% for each full orphan. labor code requires employers to provide paid sick leave.) The value of the orphan’s pension must not be less than the Maternity benefit: 50% of the insured’s last earnings; 100% value of family allowances. An orphan receiving the pension of the insured’s last earnings (with the employer paying half) may not receive family allowances. with 2 years of continuous service with the same employer. The total survivor pension must not exceed 100% of the The benefit is payable 6 weeks before and 8 weeks after the deceased’s pension; otherwise, the pensions are reduced expected date of childbirth; may be extended for 3 additional proportionately. weeks if complications arise. Survivor settlement: A lump sum equal to 1 month of the pension the deceased would have been entitled to with Workers’ Medical Benefits 180 months of insurance coverage for each 6-month period of Working women are reimbursed for the cost of medical care insurance coverage. If there is more than one widow, the during pregnancy and childbirth. (The labor code requires allowance is split equally among them. employers to provide certain medical services.) The survivor settlement can be paid with family allowances. Benefit adjustment: Pensions are adjusted by decree for Dependents’ Medical Benefits changes in the cost of living and the legal minimum wage, depending on the financial resources of the system. No statutory benefits are provided. (Some child health and welfare services are provided under Family Allowances, below.) Administrative Organization Administrative Organization Ministry of Public Administration, Labor, and Employment provides general supervision. Ministry of Public Administration, Labor, and Employment provides general supervision. Managed by a tripartite council and a director, the National Social Security Fund administers the program. Managed by a tripartite council and a director, the National Social Security Fund administers the program. Sickness and Maternity Work Injury Regulatory Framework Regulatory Framework First law: 1952. First law: 1960. Current law: 1965 (family and maternity benefits), with 1969 amendment. Current law: 1965 (work injury benefits), with 1967 amendment. Type of program: Social insurance system. Maternity benefits only. Type of program: Social insurance system. 128 ♦ SSPTW: Africa, 2005 Niger Coverage monthly earnings in the last 12 months multiplied by 0.5 times the assessed degree of disability for the portion of disability Employed persons, technical students, apprentices, members between 10% and 50% and by 1.5 times the assessed degree of of production cooperatives, nonsalaried managers of disability for the portion of disability above 50%. cooperatives and their assistants, managers and directors of commercial enterprises, and convicted persons working in If the assessed degree of disability is less than 10%, a lump prison workshops. sum is paid. Voluntary coverage for all work injury benefits is possible, The partial disability pension is paid monthly, quarterly, or except for the temporary disability benefit. annually depending on its value. The pension may be partially converted to a lump sum after Source of Funds receiving the pension for 5 years, subject to conditions. None. The insured may be required to undergo medical examinationInsured person: by a doctor approved or designated by the National Social Self-employed person: 2% of annual earnings. Security Fund every 6 months in the first 2 years; thereafter, The minimum monthly earnings for contribution purposes are once a year. equal to the legal minimum wage (18,898 CFA francs a month) Benefit adjustment: Pensions are adjusted according to multiplied by 1.44. changes in the legal minimum wage. The maximum monthly earnings for contribution purposes are 250,000 CFA francs. Workers’ Medical Benefits Employer: 2% of gross payroll. Benefits include medical and surgical care, hospitalization, The minimum monthly earnings for contribution purposes are medicines, appliances, transportation, and rehabilitation. equal to the legal minimum wage (18,898 CFA francs a month). The maximum monthly earnings for contribution purposes are Survivor Benefits 250,000 CFA francs. Survivor pension: The widow(er)’s pension is equal to 30% Contributions are paid monthly by employers with 20 or more of the deceased’s earnings used for calculating the disability employees or quarterly by employers with 1 to 19 employees. pension. If there is more than one widow, the pension is split Government: None. equally among them. The pension for a widow(er) without dependent children Qualifying Conditions ceases on remarriage and a settlement is paid. Work injury benefits: There is no minimum qualifying period. Remarriage allowance: A lump sum equal to 3 years’ pension. Accidents that occur while commuting to and from work are Orphan’s pension: The pension is equal to 15% of the covered. deceased’s earnings used for calculating the disability pension for each of the first two orphans younger than age 14 (age 18 if Temporary Disability Benefits an apprentice, age 21 if a student or disabled) and 10% for each other orphan; 20% for each full orphan. The daily benefit is equal to 50% of the insured’s average daily earnings in the month before the onset of disability for the first Dependent parent’s and grandparent’s pension: Each 28 days; thereafter, 66.6%. The benefit is payable from the day receives 10% of the deceased’s earnings used for calculating following the onset of disability until full recovery or the disability pension, up to a maximum of 30%. certification of permanent disability. The total of all survivor pensions must not exceed 85% of the deceased’s earnings used for calculating the disability pension; otherwise, the pensions are reduced proportionately. Permanent Disability Benefits All pensions are paid quarterly. Permanent disability pension: For a total disability, the monthly pension is equal to 100% of the insured’s average Funeral grant: A lump sum equal to 15 days of the deceased’s monthly earnings in the last 12 months. earnings used for calculating the disability pension. The minimum annual earnings for benefit calculation purposes Benefit adjustment: Pensions are adjusted according to the are 318,000 CFA francs. changes in the legal minimum wage. The maximum annual earnings for benefit calculation purposes are 3,922,000 CFA francs. Administrative Organization Constant-attendance supplement: Equal to 40% of the Ministry of Public Administration, Labor, and Employment insured’s pension. provides general supervision. Partial disability: For an assessed degree of disability of more than 10%, the pension is equal to the insured’s average SSPTW: Africa, 2005 ♦ 129 Niger Managed by a tripartite council and a director, the National Family Allowance Benefits Social Security Fund administers the program. Family allowance: 1,000 CFA francs a month for each child. The allowance is paid quarterly. Family Allowances Prenatal allowance: 1,000 CFA francs a month for 9 months. The allowance is paid in three 3-month installments. Regulatory Framework Maternity allowance: A lump sum of 10,000 CFA francs. The First law: 1955. grant is paid in three installments: 5,000 CFA francs at Current law: 1965 (family and maternity benefits), with 1969 childbirth; 2,500 CFA francs when the child is aged 6 months; amendment. and 2,500 CFA francs when the child is aged 12 months. Type of program: Employment-related system. Birth allowance: A lump sum of 10,000 CFA francs is paid to the insured for each of the first three births. Coverage Some maternal and child health and welfare services are also provided. Employees and social insurance beneficiaries with one or more children. Administrative Organization Special system for civil servants. Ministry of Public Administration, Labor, and Employment Source of Funds provides general supervision. Managed by a tripartite council and a director, the National Insured person: None. Social Security Fund administers the program. Self-employed person: Not applicable. Employer: 11% of gross payroll; a monthly lump-sum contribution for domestic workers. The employer contributions also finance maternity benefits under Sickness and Maternity, above. The minimum monthly earnings for contribution purposes are equal to the legal minimum wage (18,898 CFA francs a month). The maximum monthly earnings for contribution purposes are 250,000 CFA francs. Contributions are paid monthly by employers with 20 or more employees or quarterly by employers with 1 to 19 employees. Government: None. Qualifying Conditions Family allowances: The child must be at least age 1 or younger than age 14 (age 18 if an apprentice, age 21 if a student or disabled). The parent must have 6 consecutive months of covered employment and be currently working 18 days or 120 hours a month or be the widow(er) of a beneficiary; an unemployed parent for up to 6 months after employment ceases. The child must not receive an orphan’s pension. If one of the parents receives family allowances from the special system for civil servants, only the higher benefit award is paid. Prenatal allowance: The mother and child must undergo three prescribed medical examinations. The allowance is payable to an insured woman or to the wife of an insured man. Maternity allowance: The mother and child must undergo prescribed medical examinations. Birth allowance: Paid for the birth of the insured’s first three children. 130 ♦ SSPTW: Africa, 2005 Nigeria Disability pension: Assessed as disabled and incapable of Nigeria work. The disability pension is not payable abroad. Exchange rate: US$1.00 equals 132.05 naira. Survivor pension: The deceased was eligible for the disability pension or the old-age pension at the time of death. Old Age, Disability, and Survivors Eligible survivors are survivors designated by the deceased or the deceased’s spouse and children; in the absence of a Regulatory Framework spouse and children, the pension is paid to the next-of-kin orthe administrator of the deceased’s estate. First law: 1961 (provident fund). The survivor pension is not payable abroad. Current law: 2004 (pensions). Type of program: Mandatory individual account system. Old-Age Benefits Note: The 2004 law establishes a unified system of mandatory Old-age pension: The pension is based on the insured’s individual accounts. Implemented for public-sector employees contributions plus accrued interest. At retirement, the insured in July 2004, the system has not yet been fully implemented for may purchase an annuity or receive periodic payments on a private-sector employees. The National Social Insurance Trust monthly or quarterly basis calculated on the basis of life Fund is to hold contributions previously made to it for at least expectancy. 5 years; thereafter, the insured can transfer all contributions to a pension fund of their choice. The insured can opt to receive a partial lump sum from the balance in the individual account, provided that the remaining value of the individual balance is sufficient to purchase an Coverage annuity or fund periodic payments equal to not less than 50% All employees in the public sector and private-sector of annual earnings at the date of retirement. employees working in firms with five or more workers. After a 6-month waiting period, insured persons who retire Exclusions: Diplomats, noncitizens covered by an equivalent before age 50 and who have not started new employment may program in another country, self-employed persons, the clergy, request to receive a maximum of 25% of the balance in their and private-sector employees working in firms with fewer than individual account as a lump sum. five workers. Voluntary coverage for some excluded categories of worker Permanent Disability Benefits under specified conditions. Disability pension: The pension is based on the insured’s contributions plus accrued interest. The insured may purchase Source of Funds an annuity or receive periodic payments on a monthly or quarterly basis calculated on the basis of life expectancy. Insured person: 7.5% of gross salary; 2.5% of gross salary for military personnel. The insured can opt to receive a partial lump sum from the balance in the individual account, provided that the remaining Gross salary includes basic salary, housing allowances, and value of the individual balance is sufficient to purchase an transportation allowances. annuity or fund periodic payments equal to not less than 50% Additional voluntary contributions are possible. of annual earnings at the onset of disability. Self-employed person: Not applicable. The disability may be reassessed every 2 years by the Medical Employer: 7.5% of gross salary; 12.5% of gross salary for Board or a qualified doctor at the insured’s request. military personnel. Gross salary includes basic salary, housing allowances, and Survivor Benefits transportation allowances. Survivor pension: 100% of the balance of the deceased’s Government: None. individual account, plus the dividend of an employer- There are no maximum earnings for contribution purposes. sponsored life insurance policy, is paid. The survivor may purchase an annuity or receive periodic Qualifying Conditions payments on a monthly or quarterly basis calculated on thebasis of his or her life expectancy. Old-age pension: Age 50 or older; employees in certain The survivor can opt to receive a partial lump sum from the categories of employment may retire before age 50. balance in the deceased’s individual account, provided that the Employment must cease. remaining value of the individual balance is sufficient to The old-age pension is not payable abroad. purchase an annuity or to fund periodic payments equal to not SSPTW: Africa, 2005 ♦ 131 Nigeria less than 50% of the deceased’s annual earnings at the time of Employer: Total cost met through the direct provision of death. benefits or the payment of insurance premiums. Government: None. Administrative Organization Federal Ministry of Labor and Productivity provides general Qualifying Conditions supervision. Work injury benefits: There is no minimum qualifying period. National Pension Commission regulates, supervises, and administers pensions. Temporary Disability Benefits Pension Fund Administrators administer individual accounts. The benefit is payable for a maximum of 24 months: 100% of National Social Insurance Trust Fund (http://www.nsitf.com) is basic pay for 6 months, 50% for the next 3 months, and 25% for a pension fund administrator and administers benefits awarded the next 15 months. under the previous social insurance pension program. The benefit is paid monthly. Sickness and Maternity Permanent Disability Benefits Regulatory Framework If totally disabled, a lump sum equal to 54 months’ earnings. No statutory cash benefits for sickness and maternity are Constant-attendance allowance: A lump sum equal to 25% of provided. (The 2004 Pension Reform Act provides enabling the permanent disability benefit. legislation for the National Social Insurance Trust Fund to Partial disability: A percentage of the total disability lump sum introduce a social insurance program for sickness and according to the assessed degree of disability. maternity benefits.) The 1999 National Health Insurance Decree provides medical Workers’ Medical Benefits benefits to insured employees of firms with 10 or more workers. The benefits are financed by contributions of 5% of basic Medical benefits include medical care, hospitalization, monthly salary from insured persons and 10% of basic monthly medicines, appliances, and transportation. salary from employers. The labor code requires employers to give employees 12 days Survivor Benefits of paid sick leave a year and to provide paid maternity leave at A lump sum equal to 42 months’ earnings, minus any 50% of wages for 6 weeks before and 6 weeks after the temporary disability benefit paid to the deceased. expected date of childbirth. Courts determine how the lump sum is split among the survivors. Work Injury Administrative Organization Regulatory Framework Federal Ministry of Labor and Productivity enforces the law. First and current law: 1942 (workmen’s compensation), with 1957 and 1987 amendments. Courts participate in the adjudication of benefits and settle disputed benefit claims. Type of program: Employer-liability system, normally involving insurance with a private carrier. Employers may insure against liability with private insurance companies. Note: This information is from 2003. Coverage Unemployment Manual workers and nonmanual employees (including Regulatory Framework government employees) with earnings below a ceiling. No statutory benefits are provided. (The 2004 Pension Reform Exclusions: Agricultural employees or handicraft employees of Act provides enabling legislation for the National Social commercial enterprises normally employing fewer than Insurance Trust Fund to introduce a social insurance program 10 workers, casual workers, and family workers. for unemployment benefits.) For insured persons who contributed to an individual account Source of Funds under the previous provident fund system, the 1961 Provident Insured person: None. Fund Act permits limited cash drawdown payments after 1 year of unemployment. Self-employed person: Not applicable. 132 ♦ SSPTW: Africa, 2005 Nigeria Family Allowances Regulatory Framework The amended 1995 Family Support Trust Fund Decree provides some social assistance and health care benefits to families. SSPTW: Africa, 2005 ♦ 133 Rwanda Disability pension: A loss of 50% of earning capacity with Rwanda 5 years of insurance coverage, including 6 months ofcontributions in the 12 months before the onset of disability. Exchange rate: US$1.00 equals 569.46 francs. There is no minimum qualifying period for a nonoccupational accident. Survivor pension: Payable to eligible survivors if the Old Age, Disability, and Survivors deceased was a pensioner, met the qualifying conditions for an old-age pension or a disability pension, or had 180 months of Regulatory Framework insurance coverage at the time of death. First law: 1956. Survivor settlement: Payable to eligible survivors if the deceased did not meet the qualifying conditions for a pension. Current laws: 1974 and 2003. Eligible survivors are the widow(er), children younger than Type of program: Social insurance system. age 18 (age 25 if a student, no limit if disabled), and parents (including adopting parents) in the absence of a surviving Coverage spouse and orphans. Salaried workers including permanent, occasional, and temporary workers; professional and in-service trainees; Old-Age Benefits apprentices; civil servants; political appointees; and Old-age pension: The pension is equal to 30% of average government officials. earnings during the last 3 or 5 years (whichever is higher), plus Voluntary coverage for persons who were previously insured 2% for each 12-month period of insurance coverage beyond at least 6 consecutive months and had mandatory coverage in 180 months. the last 12 months and for the self-employed. The minimum pension is 50% of the legal minimum wage. The legal monthly minimum wage is 10,400 francs (2002). Source of Funds Old-age settlement: A lump sum equal to average monthly Insured person: 3% of gross earnings; 6% of gross earnings earnings during the last 3 or 5 years (whichever is higher) times for voluntary coverage. the number of years of insurance. The minimum monthly earnings for contribution and benefit If the insured is entitled to two or more pensions (including purposes are equal to the legal minimum wage. work injury benefits), the highest pension is paid plus half the amount of the other benefits. The maximum monthly earnings for contribution purposes are subject to a ceiling. Benefit adjustment: Benefits are adjusted periodically by presidential decree. (The last adjustment was made in Self-employed person: 6% of income. April 2002.) The maximum monthly income for contribution purposes is 104,000 francs. Permanent Disability Benefits Employer: 3% of gross payroll. Disability pension: The pension is equal to 30% of average The minimum monthly earnings for contribution purposes are earnings during the last 3 or 5 years (whichever is higher), plus equal to the legal minimum wage. 2% for each 12-month period of insurance coverage beyond The maximum monthly earnings for contribution purposes are 180 months. For each year that a claim is made before age 55, subject to a ceiling. the insured is credited with a 6-month coverage period. Government: None. The minimum pension is 50% of the legal minimum wage. The legal monthly minimum wage is 10,400 francs (2002). Qualifying Conditions Constant-attendance supplement: Equal to 40% of the insured’s pension. Old-age pension: From age 55 to age 65 (younger than age 55 if prematurely aged), with 15 years of insurance coverage. Benefit adjustment: Benefits are adjusted periodically by Employment must cease. presidential decree. (The last adjustment was made in April 2002.) The pension is payable abroad only if there is a reciprocal agreement. Old-age settlement: Age 55 (younger than age 55 if Survivor Benefits prematurely aged) and ineligible for the old-age pension. Survivor pension: 50% of the deceased’s pension is payable to the widow(er). 134 ♦ SSPTW: Africa, 2005 Rwanda Orphan’s pension: 25% of the deceased’s pension is payable Qualifying Conditions for each eligible orphan; 40% for a full orphan. Work injury benefits: There is no minimum qualifying period. Parent’s pension (in the absence of other eligible survivors): 25% of the deceased’s pension each. Temporary Disability Benefits The total survivor pension must not exceed 100% of the deceased’s pension. The benefit is equal to 75% of the insured’s average daily A lump sum equal to 1 month’s pension earnings in the 3 months before the onset of disability. TheSurvivor settlement: for each 6-month period of insurance coverage is payable to benefit is payable until full recovery or certification of the widow(er). permanent disability, up to a maximum of 180 days. Orphan’s settlement: A lump sum equal to 50% of the survivor settlement is payable to each eligible orphan. The Permanent Disability Benefits total settlement paid to orphans must not exceed twice the Permanent disability pension: If totally disabled, the survivor settlement. pension is equal to 85% of the insured’s average monthly Benefit adjustment: Benefits are adjusted periodically by earnings in the 3 months before the onset of disability. presidential decree. (The last adjustment was made in April Constant-attendance supplement: Equal to 40% of the 2002.) insured’s pension. Partial disability: If the assessed degree of disability is 15% or Administrative Organization more, the benefit equals a percentage of the full pension Ministry of Public Service and Labor provides general according to the assessed degree of disability; if the assessed supervision. degree of disability is less than 15%, a lump sum equal to3 year’s pension is paid. Managed by a tripartite council and director, the Social Fund administers the program. Workers’ Medical Benefits Sickness and Maternity Benefits include medical and surgical care, laboratory services, medicines, hospitalization, dental care, eyeglasses, appliances, Regulatory Framework rehabilitation, and transportation. No statutory benefits are provided. Survivor Benefits The labor code requires employers to pay 100% of wages for sickness benefits for up to 30 days. Survivor pension: 30% of the deceased’s average daily earnings is payable to a widow(er). The labor code requires employers to pay 100% of wages for maternity benefits for up to 2 months. Orphan’s pension: 15% of the deceased’s average daily earnings is payable for each orphan younger than age 18 (age 25 if a student, no limit if disabled); 20% for a full orphan. Work Injury Other eligible survivors: 10% of the insured’s average daily earnings for each other eligible survivor. Regulatory Framework The total survivor pension must not exceed 100% of the First law: 1949 (private sector). deceased’s permanent disability pension. Current laws: 1974 and 2003. Funeral grant: A lump sum equal to 100 times the legal Type of program: Social insurance system. minimum wage. Coverage Administrative Organization Employed persons. (Voluntary coverage is not possible.) Ministry of Public Service and Labor provides general Exclusions: The self-employed. supervision. Managed by a tripartite council and director, the Social Fund Source of Funds administers contributions and benefits. Insured person: None. Self-employed person: Not applicable. Employer: 2% of gross monthly payroll. Government: None. SSPTW: Africa, 2005 ♦ 135 São Tomé and Principe Survivor pension: The deceased was a pensioner or was São Tomé and Principe eligible for a pension at the time of death with at least 60 months of recorded earnings. Exchange rate: US$1.00 equals 9,192.70 dobras. Funeral grant: The deceased had at least 12 months of contributions or was a pensioner. Eligible survivors are the widow(er), children younger than Note: This information is from 1993. age 18 (no limit if disabled), and dependent parents older than age 62 (men) or age 57 (women) or disabled. Old Age, Disability, and Survivors Old-Age Benefits Regulatory Framework Old-age pension: The pension is equal to 35% of the First law: 1979. insured’s average monthly earnings in the best 5 years out of Current law: 1990 (social security). the last 10 calendar years, plus 1% for each year of coverage Social insurance system. beyond 10 years up to 25 years, plus 2% for each year ofType of program: coverage beyond 25 years. Pensions are paid monthly. Deferred pension: The pension is increased by 3% for each Coverage year of coverage after the normal retirement age. Employed persons, including civil servants and military The minimum pension is 30% of the national minimum wage. personnel. Benefit adjustment: Benefits are indexed to wage increases. Exclusions: Domestic workers. Voluntary coverage for the self-employed. Permanent Disability Benefits Source of Funds Disability pension: The pension is equal to 30% of theinsured’s average monthly earnings in the best 5 years out of Insured person: 4% of gross earnings. the last 10, plus 1% for each year of coverage beyond 10 years The above contributions finance old-age, disability, and up to 25 years, plus 2% for each year of coverage beyond survivor benefits; sickness and maternity benefits; and work 25 years. At the normal retirement age, the disability pension is injury benefits. replaced by the old-age pension. Self-employed person: The voluntary contribution of 7.5% Benefits are paid monthly. of declared earnings. (The declared earnings are chosen by The minimum pension is 30% of the legal minimum wage. the self-employed person from among six earnings classes.) Constant-attendance allowance: Equal to 20% of the pension. Voluntary contributions finance old-age, disability, and Benefit adjustment: Benefits are indexed to wage increases. survivor benefits only. Employer: 6% of gross payroll. Survivor Benefits The above contributions finance old-age, disability, and survivor benefits; sickness and maternity benefits; and work Survivor pension: 60% of the monthly pension paid or injury benefits. accrued to the deceased is payable for one dependentsurvivor; 80% for two; 100% for three or more. Government: None. The widow(er)’s pension ceases on remarriage. The above contributions finance old-age, disability, and survivor benefits; sickness and maternity benefits; and work Funeral grant: A lump sum equal to the cost of the funeral. injury benefits. Administrative Organization Qualifying Conditions Ministry of Health, Labor, and Social Security provides general supervision. Old-age pension: Age 62 (men) or 57 (women) with 120 months of contributions. National Institute of Social Security administers the program. Retirement is not necessary. Deferred pension: A deferred pension is possible. Sickness and Maternity Disability pension: A permanent incapacity for all work or at Regulatory Framework least a 2/3 incapacity for usual work, with at least 60 months of contributions. First law: 1979. Current law: 1990 (social security). 136 ♦ SSPTW: Africa, 2005 São Tomé and Principe Type of program: Social insurance system. Cash benefits Workers’ Medical Benefits only. No statutory benefits are provided. Medical care is provided under the public health program. Medical care is provided under the public health program. Coverage Dependents’ Medical Benefits Employed persons, including civil servants and military personnel. No statutory benefits are provided. Exclusions: Self-employed persons and domestic workers. Medical care is provided under the public health program. Source of Funds Administrative Organization Insured person: See source of funds under Old Age, Ministry of Health, Labor, and Social Security provides general Disability, and Survivors, above. supervision. Self-employed person: Not applicable. National Institute of Social Security administers the program. Employer: See source of funds under Old Age, Disability, and Survivors, above. Work Injury Government: See source of funds under Old Age, Disability, and Survivors, above. Regulatory Framework First law: 1979. Qualifying Conditions Current law: 1990 (social security). Cash sickness benefits: Must have 3 months of insurance Type of program: Social insurance system. coverage with 60 days of paid contributions immediately before the onset of incapacity or 3 months of paid Coverage contributions if the insured had not contributed in the 12 months before the onset of incapacity. Employed persons, including civil servants and military personnel. Cash maternity benefits: Must have 360 days of insurance coverage and at least 10 months of paid contributions before Exclusions: Self-employed persons. the expected date of childbirth. Special leave: Awarded to a parent to provide care for a sick Source of Funds child younger than age 3 or a disabled child of any age. Must Insured person: See source of funds under Old Age, have 3 months of insurance coverage with 60 days of Disability, and Survivors, above. contributions immediately before the onset of incapacity. Self-employed person: Not applicable. Sickness and Maternity Benefits Employer: See source of funds under Old Age, Disability, andSurvivors, above. Sickness benefit: The benefit is equal to 60% of the Government: See source of funds under Old Age, Disability, insured’s average daily earnings in the last 2 months. The and Survivors, above. benefit is payable after a 3-day waiting period for up to 360 days. Qualifying Conditions Maternity benefit: The benefit is equal to 100% of the insured’s average daily earnings in the last 12 months. The Work injury benefits: There is no minimum qualifying period. benefit is payable for 30 days before and 30 days (45 days for Accidents that occur while commuting to and from work are multiple childbirths) after the expected date of childbirth. covered. Special leave: The benefit is equal to 60% of the insured’s average daily earnings in the last 2 months. The benefit is Temporary Disability Benefits payable without a waiting period for up to 360 days; the benefit is renewable for a further 180 days for the same child The benefit is equal to 100% of the insured’s average daily 12 months after the end of the first benefit period. earnings in the 2 months before the onset of disability for thefirst 30 days and 90% of average earnings from the 31st day up to the 360th day; thereafter, 75% of average earnings. The maximum duration is 24 months. SSPTW: Africa, 2005 ♦ 137 São Tomé and Principe Permanent Disability Benefits Permanent disability pension: The pension is equal to 50% of the insured’s average monthly earnings in the best 5 years out of the last 10 years, plus 2% for each year of coverage beyond 25 years. The minimum pension is equal to 30% of the legal minimum wage. Workers’ Medical Benefits No statutory benefits are provided. Medical care is provided under the public health program. Survivor Benefits Survivor pension: 60% of the monthly permanent disability pension paid or accrued to the deceased is payable for one dependent; 80% for two; 100% for three or more. The widow(er)’s pension ceases on remarriage. Eligible survivors are the widow(er), children younger than age 18 (no limit if disabled), and dependent parents older than age 62 (men) or age 57 (women) or disabled. Funeral grant: A lump sum equal to the cost of the funeral. Administrative Organization Ministry of Health, Labor, and Social Security provides general supervision. National Institute of Social Security administers the program. 138 ♦ SSPTW: Africa, 2005 Senegal Child supplement: Additional contribution points are credited Senegal for each dependent child younger than age 18, up to a maximum of three children. Exchange rate: US$1.00 equals 493.54 CFA francs. Early pension: A reduced pension is payable from age 53. Means-tested allowance: An allowance is payable from age 55 to persons born before 1922 who are ineligible for the Old Age, Disability, and Survivors old-age pension and have at least 5 years of employment as a domestic worker. Regulatory Framework Disability pension: No statutory benefits are provided. First and current law: 1975 (compulsory insurance). Survivor pension: The insured was a pensioner or met the Type of program: Social insurance system. contribution requirements for a pension at the time of death. Eligible survivors are a widow who is aged 50 or older or caring Coverage for two dependent children younger than age 18 and who was married to the deceased at least 2 years before he died; a Employed persons, including domestic workers, seasonal widower aged 55 or older (age 53 if disabled) who was married workers, and day workers. to the deceased at least 2 years before she died; and full Voluntary coverage for previously covered employees older orphans younger than age 22. than age 39 with at least 5 years of contributions. Special system for civil servants. Old-Age Benefits Old-age pension: The pension is equal to 1.33% of covered Source of Funds earnings times the number of years of insurance coverage, Insured person: 5.6% of gross monthly earnings; managers according to a point system (the pension is equal to the contribute a supplementary 2.4% of gross monthly earnings on insured’s number of points times the contractual price of a earnings greater than 210,000 CFA francs. point). The maximum monthly earnings for contribution purposes are The maximum pension is based on 30 years of insurance 210,000 CFA francs; the maximum monthly earnings for coverage. contribution purposes for managers are 630,000 CFA francs. The contractual price of a point is adjusted annually by the Self-employed person: Not applicable. Social Insurance Institute for Old-Age Pensions. Employer: 8.4% of monthly payroll (plus a supplementary Child supplement: The pension is increased by 5% for each 3.6% of gross monthly earnings on managers’ earnings greater eligible child. than 210,000 CFA francs). Early pension: The old-age pension is reduced by 5% for each The maximum monthly earnings for contribution purpose are year the pension is taken before age 55. 210,000 CFA francs; the maximum monthly earnings for Means-tested allowance: A cash benefit based on the managers are 630,000 CFA francs. contractual price of 1,200 contribution points. Contributions are paid monthly by employers with 20 or more employees and quarterly by employers with 1 to 19 employees. Permanent Disability Benefits Government: None. Disability pension: No statutory benefits are provided. Qualifying Conditions Survivor Benefits Old-age pension: Age 55 (age 60 for managers) according to a Survivor pension: The widow(er) pension is equal to a point system. Retirement from employment is necessary. maximum of 50% of the deceased’s old-age pension. If there is The number of points awarded each month is based on the more than one widow, the pension is split equally among them. value of total contributions divided by the reference salary. Orphan’s pension: The pension is equal to 20% of the The reference salary is defined annually by the Social deceased’s old-age pension for each full orphan younger than Insurance Institute for Old-Age Pensions. age 22. The minimum number of points required for a pension is 400. The total orphan’s pension must not exceed 100% of the Additional points are credited for periods of employment deceased’s old-age pension; otherwise, the pensions are before the implementation of the current program if the insured reduced proportionately. worked for at least 10 years before or after the program began and has at least 1 year of contributions and also for certain periods of incapacity for work. SSPTW: Africa, 2005 ♦ 139 Senegal Administrative Organization Benefits are payable abroad only if there is a reciprocal agreement. Ministry of Public Function, Labor, Employment, and Professional Organizations (http://www.emploi.gouv.sn) Medical benefits: Two months of contributions. provides general supervision. Managed by a bipartite employer and employee board, the Sickness and Maternity Benefits Social Insurance Institute for Old-Age Pensions Sickness benefit: No statutory benefits are provided. (http://www.ipres.sn) administers the program. Maternity benefit: The benefit is equal to 100% of the insured’s last daily earnings. The benefit is payable for Sickness and Maternity 6 weeks before and 8 weeks after the expected date of childbirth; may be extended by 3 weeks in case of Regulatory Framework complications. First laws: 1952 (cash maternity benefits) and 1975 (medical The benefit is paid daily, weekly, monthly, or in three benefits). installments (when first claiming the benefit, at the date of Current laws: 1973 (cash maternity benefits) and 1975 childbirth, and when the benefit period ceases). (medical benefits). Type of program: Social insurance system. Cash maternity Workers’ Medical Benefits and medical benefits. Benefits include partial cost sharing for health care costs, including hospitalization, pharmaceuticals, and doctor’s visits. Coverage There is no limit to duration. Cash sickness benefits: No statutory benefits are provided. Cost sharing: The amount varies between 30% and 80% of the costs, according to the availability of funds. Cash maternity benefits: Employed women and nonemployed women married to an insured man. Medical benefits are also provided directly to old-age pensioners and survivor pensioners by the Social Insurance Special system for civil servants and armed forces personnel. Institute for Old-Age Pensions. Medical benefits: Employed persons, including apprentices, seasonal workers, and temporary workers who work at least Dependents’ Medical Benefits 3 months a year for the same enterprise. Exclusions: The self-employed. Benefits include partial cost sharing for health care costs,including hospitalization, pharmaceuticals, and doctor’s visits. Health mutual insurance companies provide medical benefits to There is no limit to duration. informal-sector workers in certain areas. Cost sharing: The amount varies between 30% and 80% of the costs, according to the availability of funds. Source of Funds Eligible dependents are the spouse and dependent children Insured person: Up to 3% of gross monthly earnings (rates older than age 2 and younger than age 15 (age 18 if an vary according to the health institute). apprentice, age 21 if a student or disabled). The above contributions finance medical benefits only. Cash maternity benefits are financed under Family Allowances, Administrative Organization below. Ministry of Public Function, Labor, Employment, and Self-employed person: Not applicable. Professional Organizations (http://www.emploi.gouv.sn) Employer: Up to 3% of gross monthly payroll (rates vary provides general supervision. according to the health institute). Social Security Fund (http://www.secusociale.sn) administers The above contributions finance medical benefits only. Cash the maternity benefit program. maternity benefits are financed under Family Allowances, Health institutes administer the medical benefits program. The below. law requires the participation of companies with over Government: None. 100 employees; smaller firms may group together in order to join a health institute. Qualifying Conditions Cash sickness benefits: No statutory benefits are provided. Cash maternity benefits: Three consecutive months of employment and working 18 days or 120 hours a month. 140 ♦ SSPTW: Africa, 2005 Senegal Work Injury The maximum daily earnings for benefit calculation purposes must not exceed 1% of the maximum annual earnings for Regulatory Framework contribution purposes (7,560 CFA francs). (The maximum annual earnings for contribution purposes were last adjusted First law: 1932. in January 2004.) Current laws: 1973 (social security) and 1991 (administration). Benefit adjustment: The benefits are adjusted periodically Type of program: Social insurance system. according to enterprise-based agreements. Coverage Permanent Disability Benefits Employed persons; seamen; apprentices; trainees; technical Permanent disability pension: The pension for a total students (except those attending technical universities); disability is equal to 100% of the insured’s monthly average members of cooperatives; nonsalaried managers of earnings in the 12 months before the onset of disability. cooperatives and their assistants; certain company managers; The minimum annual earnings for benefit calculation purposes temporary, casual, and daily workers; and convicted persons are 845,829 CFA francs. working in prison workshops. The pension is payable abroad only if there is a reciprocal Voluntary coverage for certain categories of self-employed agreement. person without mandatory coverage, including farmers. Partial disability: The pension is equal to the insured’s monthly average earnings in the 12 months before the onset of Source of Funds disability multiplied by 0.5 times the percentage of the Insured person: None. assessed degree of disability for the portion of disability between 1% and 50% and by 1.5 times the percentage of the Self-employed person: 1%, 3%, or 5% of payroll, according assessed degree of disability for the portion above 50%. to the assessed degree of risk. For an assessed degree of disability of more than 10%, the The minimum annual earnings for voluntary contribution minimum annual earnings for benefit calculation purposes are purposes are 439,916 CFA francs. 845,829 CFA francs. The maximum annual earnings for voluntary contribution The partial disability pension may be paid partially as a lump purposes are 756,000 CFA francs. sum after 5 to 7 years if the assessed degree of disability is Employer: 1%, 3%, or 5% of gross payroll, according to the more than 10%. If the assessed degree of disability is equal to assessed degree of risk. The average contribution rate is 2.5%. 10% or less, the pension is paid as a lump sum. The minimum monthly earnings for contribution purposes are The degree of disability is assessed by Social Security Fund equal to the legal monthly minimum wage of 36,243 CFA francs. doctors, on the basis of recommendations of the insured’s (The legal minimum wage was last adjusted in February 1996.) doctor. The insured may be required to undergo medical The maximum monthly earnings for contribution purposes are examinations every 2 years. equal to 63,000 CFA francs. (The maximum earnings for Constant-attendance supplement: Equal to 40% of the contribution purposes were last adjusted in January 2004.) insured’s pension. Government: None; contributes as an employer on behalf of The minimum supplement is equal to 70% of the minimum government employees who are not civil servants. annual earnings for benefit calculation purposes (845,829 CFA francs). Qualifying Conditions Benefit adjustment: Pensions are adjusted for changes in the cost of living and wages, depending on the financial resources Work injury benefits: There is no minimum qualifying period. of the system. (The last adjustment was made in January Accidents that occur while commuting to and from work are 2005.) covered. Workers’ Medical Benefits Temporary Disability Benefits Benefits include medical and surgical expenses, hospitalization, The benefit is equal to 50% of the insured’s daily earnings in medicines, appliances, rehabilitation, and transportation. the 30 days before the onset of disability for the first 28 days; There is no limit to duration. thereafter, 66.6% until full recovery or certification of permanent disability. The minimum monthly earnings for benefit calculation purposes are equal to the legal monthly minimum wage of 36,243 CFA francs. (The legal minimum wage was last adjusted in February 1996.) SSPTW: Africa, 2005 ♦ 141 Senegal Survivor Benefits receiving the work injury total disability pension. The unemployed are covered for a maximum of 6 months after Survivor pension: The widow(er) pension is equal to 30% of leaving insured employment. the deceased’s monthly average earnings in the 12 months before the onset of disability. If there is more than one widow, Exclusions: The self-employed. the pension is split equally among them. The pension is paid Special system for civil servants. quarterly. The widow(er) pension ceases on remarriage if there are no Source of Funds dependent child. Insured person: None. Remarriage allowance: A lump sum equal to three times the annual pension. Self-employed person: Not applicable. Orphan’s pension: The pension is equal to 15% of the Employer: 7% of gross payroll. deceased’s monthly average earnings in the 12 months before The minimum earnings for benefit calculation purposes are the onset of disability for one orphan younger than age 15 equal to the legal monthly minimum wage (36,243 CFA francs). (age 18 if an apprentice, age 21 if a student or disabled), 30% (The legal minimum wage was last adjusted in 1996.) for two orphans, 40% for three orphans, and 10% for each The maximum monthly earnings for benefit calculation additional orphan. purposes are 60,000 CFA francs. Dependent parent’s and grandparent’s pension: 10% of the Contributions are paid monthly by employers with 20 or more deceased’s monthly average earnings in the 12 months before employees and quarterly by employers with 1 to 19 employees. the onset of disability each, up to a maximum of 30%. The employer contributions also finance cash maternity The total survivor pension must not exceed 85% of the benefits under Sickness and Maternity, above. deceased’s monthly average earnings in the 12 months before the onset of disability. Government: None. The minimum annual earnings for benefit calculation purposes are 845,829 CFA francs. Qualifying Conditions Funeral grant: Equal to 1/24 of the minimum annual earnings Family allowances: The child must be older than age 2 and for benefit calculation purposes. younger than age 15 (age 18 if an apprentice, age 21 if a The minimum annual earnings for benefit calculation purposes student or disabled). Allowances are payable for a maximum of are 845,829 CFA francs. six children. The parent must have at least 3 consecutive months of employment and be currently working 18 days or Benefit adjustment: Pensions are adjusted for changes in the 120 hours a month. cost of living and wages, depending on the financial resources of the system. (The last adjustment was made in January Prenatal allowance: Payable during the 9 months of 2005.) pregnancy, without limit on the number of children. The mother must undergo prescribed medical examinations. The allowance is payable to an insured woman or to the spouse of Administrative Organization an insured man. Ministry of Public Function, Labor, Employment, and Maternity allowance: Payable until the child is age 2. The Professional Organizations (http://www.emploi.gouv.sn) mother and child must undergo prescribed medical provides general supervision. examinations. The allowance is payable to an insured woman Social Security Fund (http://www.secusociale.sn) administers or to the spouse of an insured man. contributions and benefits. Benefits are paid for 6 months to insured unemployed persons and without limit of duration to the widows of family allowance Family Allowances beneficiaries or work injury permanent disability pensioners. Benefits are payable abroad only if there is a reciprocal Regulatory Framework agreement. First law: 1955. Family Allowance Benefits Current laws: 1973 (social security) and 1991 (administration). Employment-related system. Family allowances: The allowance is 2,250 CFA francs aType of program: month (April 2005) for each of the first six children. The allowance is paid quarterly. Coverage Prenatal allowance: The allowance is 2,250 CFA francs a Employees, including seamen; social insurance beneficiaries, month (April 2005) for the 9 months of pregnancy. The including the widow of an insured man and pensioners allowance is paid in three installments (a 2-month installment in 142 ♦ SSPTW: Africa, 2005 Senegal the third month of pregnancy, a 4-month installment in the sixth month of pregnancy, and a 3-month installment in the eighth month of pregnancy). Maternity allowance: The allowance is 2,250 CFA francs a month (April 2005) from the date of childbirth up to the child’s second birthday. The allowance is paid in five installments (a 6-month installment is paid at childbirth, when the child is 6 months old, and when the child is aged 1; a 3-month installment is paid when the child is aged 18 months and when the child is aged 2). Benefit adjustment: Benefits are adjusted depending on the financial resources of the system. (The last adjustment was made in April 2005.) Administrative Organization Ministry of Public Function, Labor, Employment, and Professional Organizations (http://www.emploi.gouv.sn) provides general supervision. Social Security Fund (http://www.secusociale.sn) administers the program. SSPTW: Africa, 2005 ♦ 143 Seychelles The above contributions to the social security fund also Seychelles finance sickness and maternity benefits and work injurybenefits. Exchange rate: US$1.00 equals 5.19 rupees (Rs). Seychelles pension scheme: Rs50 a month for each employee. Government: Contributes as an employer. Makes Old Age, Disability, and Survivors contributions out of the general budget and guarantees the pension benefits under the social security fund. The Regulatory Framework Seychelles pension scheme contribution is taken from First law: 1971 (provident fund). business tax receipts. Current laws: 1987 (social security), implemented in 1988; and 1990 (Seychelles pension scheme). Qualifying Conditions Type of program: Universal and social insurance system. Old-age pension Old-age pension (social security fund): Age 63 with at least Coverage 5 years of residence immediately before the date of retirement. (The residency requirement may be waived by the Minister of Social security fund: All citizens residing in Seychelles Finance under special circumstances.) territory and resident foreign employees who contribute to the Seychelles pension scheme. The pension is not payable abroad. Special schemes for the employees of three companies in the Old-age benefit (Seychelles pension scheme): Age 63; at any banking and industrial sector. Employees of these companies age if the insured is emigrating permanently. are covered under the Seychelles pension scheme. The pension is not payable abroad. Seychelles pension scheme: Employees in the public and Disability pension private sectors. Disability pension (social security fund): A loss of 3/4 of Voluntary coverage for the self-employed. earning capacity with at least 5 years of residence. A reduced Exclusions: Part-time workers employed for less than 25 hours pension is paid for a loss of earning capacity of between 50% a week. and 74%. (The residency requirement may be waived by the Minister of Finance under special circumstances.) Source of Funds Dependent supplement (income-tested): Payable for a family whose income is less than the family subsistence level. The Insured person supplement is payable under certain conditions for each Social security fund: 5% of monthly earnings; domestic dependent child and for one adult who must be the spouse, a workers pay Rs50 a month. person caring for the insured person, or a dependent disabled The above contributions to the social security fund also adult not receiving any other benefits. finance sickness and maternity benefits and work injury The pension is not payable abroad. benefits. Disability benefit (Seychelles pension scheme): Younger Seychelles pension scheme: Rs25 a month (plus additional than age 63 and assessed as incapable of work by a medical voluntary contributions). board appointed by the Seychelles pension scheme. The There are no maximum earnings for contribution purposes. benefit is payable after receiving the social security fund disability pension for 6 months. Self-employed person The pension is not payable abroad. Social security fund: Contributions are made through the tax system. Survivor pension Seychelles pension scheme: Voluntary contributions of Rs25 Spouse pension (social security fund): The deceased had at a month (plus additional voluntary contributions). least 5 years of residence. There are no maximum earnings for contribution purposes. Eligible survivors are a widow aged 45 or older or with a dependent child younger than age 16 (or older if a student), a Employer dependent widower, and full orphans. Social security fund: 10% on the first Rs1,000 of monthly A widow who does not qualify for a pension receives a limited wages, 20% on the second Rs1,000, 35% on the next Rs8,000, benefit for 20 working days. and 40% on wages in excess of Rs10,000; Rs50 a month for Dependent supplement (income-tested): Payable for a family each domestic worker. whose income is less than the family subsistence level. The supplement is payable under certain conditions for each 144 ♦ SSPTW: Africa, 2005 Seychelles dependent child and for one adult who must be the spouse, a Benefit adjustment: Benefits are reviewed and adjusted person caring for the insured person, or a dependent disabled annually for changes in the cost of living. (Benefits were last adult not receiving any other benefits. adjusted in January 2005.) The pension is not payable abroad. Survivor benefit (Seychelles pension scheme): The Survivor benefit (Seychelles pension scheme): The deceased deceased’s contributions plus 5% interest. was insured. Eligible survivors are a widow(er) or cohabiting partner with Administrative Organization whom the insured lived for at least 6 months or, in the absence Ministry of Finance administers the social security fund of a surviving spouse or partner, dependent children. The program. insured may also designate any other person as a survivor, but the widow(er) automatically qualifies for the benefit. The Directed by a managing director and a tripartite board of pension is also payable to a child if the whereabouts of the trustees, the Seychelles pension scheme (http:// child’s parents is unknown. www.pensionscheme.sc) administers the supplementary program. Old-Age Benefits Sickness and Maternity Old-age pension (social security fund): Rs1,600 a month. Benefit adjustment: Benefits are reviewed and adjusted Regulatory Framework annually for changes in the cost of living. (Benefits were last First law: 1979. adjusted in January 2005.) Current law: 1987 (social security), implemented in 1988. Old-age benefit (Seychelles pension scheme): The insured’s contributions plus 5% interest. The average lump Type of program: Social insurance system. Cash sickness sum is Rs16,000. and maternity benefits only. Permanent Disability Benefits Coverage Disability pension (social security fund): Rs1,550 a month. Employed and self-employed persons. Partial disability (earnings-tested): The full pension is reduced according to earnings. The pension is payable until retirement Source of Funds age after receiving sickness benefits for 6 months. Insured person: See source of funds under Old Age, Dependent supplements (income-tested): Rs650 for an adult Disability, and Survivors, above. and Rs600 for each child. Self-employed person: Contributions are made through the The combined disability pension and dependent supplements tax system. must not exceed 80% of the insured’s previous earnings. Employer: See source of funds under Old Age, Disability, and Benefit adjustment: Benefits are reviewed and adjusted Survivors, above. annually for changes in the cost of living. (Benefits were last Government: None. adjusted in January 2005.) Disability benefit (Seychelles pension scheme): The Qualifying Conditions insured’s contributions plus 5% interest. Cash sickness and maternity benefits: There is no Survivor Benefits minimum qualifying period. Dependent supplements (income-tested): Payable for a family Spouse pension (social security fund): The monthly whose income is less than the family subsistence level. The pension is Rs1,300 for an eligible widow or dependent widower, supplement is payable under certain conditions for each for a maximum of 1 year. dependent child and for one adult who must be the spouse, a Dependent supplements (income-tested): Rs650 for an adult person caring for the insured person, or a dependent disabled and Rs600 for each child. adult not receiving any other benefits. The pension ceases on remarriage or if the widow(er) cohabits with a partner. Sickness and Maternity Benefits Orphan’s pension (social security fund): The monthly Sickness benefit: The employer pays the full salary for the pension is Rs775 for each full orphan. first 2 months and is reimbursed 80% of the amount paid or Funeral grant: A lump sum of Rs1,500. Rs2,000, whichever is less; thereafter, the social security fund pays Rs1,300 a month for up to 130 working days. SSPTW: Africa, 2005 ♦ 145 Seychelles Dependent supplements (income-tested): Rs650 for an adult Qualifying Conditions and Rs600 for each child. Work injury benefits: There is no minimum qualifying period. Benefit adjustment: Benefits are adjusted periodically according to changes in the cost of living. (Benefits were last Dependent supplements (income-tested): Payable for a family adjusted in January 2005.) whose income is less than the family subsistence level. The supplement is payable under certain conditions for each Maternity benefit: The employer pays the full salary for dependent child and for one adult who must be the spouse, a 2 weeks before and 8 weeks after the expected date of person caring for the insured person, or a dependent disabled childbirth and is reimbursed 80% of the amount paid up to adult not receiving any other benefits. Rs1,300. For a prolonged incapacity that is the result of pregnancy or childbirth, a sickness benefit is paid. Temporary Disability Benefits Dependent supplements (income-tested): Rs650 for an adult and Rs600 for each child. For an assessed degree of disability of at least 50%, Rs1,300 a Benefit adjustment: Benefits are adjusted periodically month is payable for up to 130 working days. according to changes in the cost of living. (Benefits were last The degree of disability is assessed by the medical board adjusted in January 2005.) established by the Ministry of Health. Dependent supplements (income-tested): Rs650 for an adult Workers’ Medical Benefits and Rs600 for each child. No statutory benefits are provided. Benefit adjustment: Benefits are adjusted periodically according to changes in the cost of living. (Benefits were last Medical services are available in government dispensaries and adjusted in January 2005.) hospitals under the National Health Plan. Permanent Disability Benefits Dependents’ Medical Benefits Permanent disability pension: For a total disability, Rs1,300 No statutory benefits are provided. a month is payable until retirement age after receiving a Medical services are available in government dispensaries and temporary disability benefit for 130 workings days. hospitals under the National Health Plan. Partial disability: A percentage of the benefit for a total disability according to the assessed degree of disability. Administrative Organization Dependent supplements (income-tested): Rs650 for an adult Ministry of Finance administers the social security fund and Rs600 for each child. program. The degree of disability is assessed by the medical board established by the Ministry of Health. Work Injury For a court award, compensation for incapacity for work is shared equally between the employer and the social security Regulatory Framework fund. First law: 1970 (employer liability). Benefit adjustment: Benefits are adjusted periodically according to changes in the cost of living. (Benefits were last Current law: 1987 (social security), implemented in 1988. adjusted in January 2005.) Type of program: Social insurance system. Workers’ Medical Benefits Coverage Free medical care is provided when needed. Benefits include Employed persons. medical and surgical care, hospitalization, medicines, Exclusions: Self-employed persons. appliances, and transportation. Source of Funds Survivor Benefits Insured person: See source of funds under Old Age, Survivor pension: Rs1,300 is payable a month to the Disability, and Survivors, above. widow(er) if the deceased provided at least 75% of family income. The widow(er) must not be in gainful employment or Self-employed person: Not applicable. self-employment. Employer: See source of funds under Old Age, Disability, and The pension ceases on remarriage or if cohabiting with a Survivors, above. partner. Government: None. 146 ♦ SSPTW: Africa, 2005 Seychelles Benefit adjustment: Pensions are adjusted annually according to changes in the cost of living. (Benefits were last adjusted in January 2005.) Administrative Organization Ministry of Finance administers the social security fund program. Unemployment Regulatory Framework No statutory benefits are provided. Under the 1980 Unemployment Fund Act, daily subsistence wages are provided for registered unemployed persons who work on government-approved projects. SSPTW: Africa, 2005 ♦ 147 Sierra Leone Eligible survivors are the widow(er), dependent children Sierra Leone younger than age 18 (age 23 if in full-time education, no limit ifdisabled), and parents. Exchange rate: US$1.00 equals 2,847 leones. Survivor grant: The deceased did not meet the qualifying conditions for a pension. Benefits are not payable abroad. Old Age, Disability, and Survivors Regulatory Framework Old-Age Benefits First and current law: 2001 (social security). Old-age pension: The pension is equal to 30% of the insured’s average monthly earnings for the first 15 years of Type of program: Social insurance system. coverage, plus 2% of the insured’s average monthly earnings for each additional 12-month coverage period. Coverage Periods of employment before the introduction of the new All employees in the public and private sectors. scheme may be credited. Voluntary coverage for the self-employed and for insured The minimum pension is at least equal to 50% of the national persons who leave insured employment. minimum wage. The maximum pension is 80% of the insured’s average monthly Source of Funds earnings. Early pension: The pension is reduced by 4% for each year Insured person: 5% of monthly salary; voluntary that the pension is taken before age 60. contributors pay 15% of monthly income. Deferred pension: The maximum number of insurable years is Self-employed person: 15% of monthly income. 40. Employer: 10% of monthly payroll. Old-age gratuity: A lump sum equal to 12 months’ pension is Government: None; contributes on behalf of government payable to each old-age pensioner on retirement. employees. Retirement grant: The grant is equal to 1.5 times the insured’s average monthly earnings for each 12-month period Qualifying Conditions of contributions. Old-age pension: Age 60 (men and women) with at least Benefit adjustment: Pensions are adjusted periodically 180 months of contributions. Employment must cease. according to wages, depending on the financial resources of Early pension: From age 55 with at least 180 months of the system. contributions. Deferred pension: A deferred pension is possible. Permanent Disability Benefits Old age gratuity: Payable to each person who is entitled to an Disability pension: The pension is equal to 30% of the old-age pension on retirement. insured’s average monthly earnings for the first 15 years of coverage, plus 2% of the insured’s average monthly earnings Retirement grant: Payable from age 55 if the insured does for each additional 12-month period of coverage. A 6-month not meet the qualifying conditions for an old-age pension. insurance coverage period is credited for each year that a claim Disability pension: The insured is permanently and totally is made before age 60. incapable of further employment and younger than age 60 with The minimum disability pension is equal to at least 50% of the at least 5 years of contributions, including 12 months of paid national minimum wage. contributions in the 3 years before the onset of disability, or has at least 180 months of contributions. Disability grant: The grant is equal to 1.5 times the insured’s average monthly earnings for each 12-month period of The disability is assessed by a medical board consisting of contributions. three persons appointed by the board. Benefit adjustment: Pensions are adjusted periodically Disability grant: The insured is permanently and totally according to wages, depending on the financial resources of incapable of further employment and does not meet the the system. qualifying conditions for a disability pension. Survivor pension: The deceased met the qualifying conditions, was receiving an old-age or disability pension, or Survivor Benefits had at least 5 years of contributions, including 12 months of Survivor pension: 40% of the deceased’s pension is payable paid contributions in the 3 years before the date of death. to a widow(er). If there is more than one widow, the pension is split equally among them. 148 ♦ SSPTW: Africa, 2005 Sierra Leone The survivor pension ceases if a widow(er) remarries or Self-employed person: Not applicable. cohabits. Employer: Total cost, met through direct provision of benefits Orphan’s pension: A maximum of 60% of the deceased’s or the payment of insurance premiums. pension is payable for orphans. Government: An approved annual contribution. Parent’s pension (in the absence of other eligible survivors): A lump sum equal to 12 months’ survivor pension Qualifying Conditions is payable to a parent who is employed or receiving a pension; 24 months’ survivor pension is payable to a parent who is not Work injury benefits: There is no minimum qualifying period. employed or receiving a pension. The maximum survivor pension is 100% of the old-age pension Temporary Disability Benefits or disability pension that the deceased was or would have been entitled to at the time of death. The benefit is equal to 2/3 of earnings. The benefit is payableafter a 3-day waiting period for up to 96 months. Survivor grant: The grant is equal to 1.5 times the insured’s average monthly earnings for each 12-month period of The benefit may be paid as a lump sum, calculated according to contributions. the expected duration of entitlement. Benefit adjustment: Pensions are adjusted periodically according to wages, depending on the financial resources of Permanent Disability Benefits the system. If totally disabled, a lump sum equal to 48 months’ earnings. Constant-attendance allowance: Up to 25% of the permanent Administrative Organization disability benefit. National Social Security and Insurance Trust (http:// Partial disability: A percentage of 56 months’ earnings up to a www.nassitsl.org) administers the program. ceiling, according to the assessed degree of disability. Sickness and Maternity Workers’ Medical Benefits Medical benefits include medical, dental, and surgical care; Regulatory Framework hospitalization; medicines; appliances; and the cost of No statutory benefits are provided. transportation, up to a maximum. Employers provide medical care for employees and their dependents through collective agreements. Survivor Benefits Note: This information is from 1997. Survivor benefit: A lump sum equal to 42 months of the deceased’s earnings (minus any disability benefits paid) is Work Injury payable to the deceased’s dependents; partial dependents mayreceive a reduced benefit. Regulatory Framework Funeral grant (in the absence of eligible survivors): A lump sum covering the cost of the burial, up to a maximum. First law: 1939. Current law: 1960 (workmen’s compensation), with 1962, 1969, Administrative Organization 1971 amendments. Ministry of Labor, Industrial Relations, and Social Security. Type of program: Employer-liability system, normally involving compulsory insurance with a private carrier. Ministry of Social Welfare, Gender, and Children’s Affairs. Note: This information is from 1997. Employers may insure against liability with private insurance companies. Coverage Employed persons. Exclusions: Agricultural employees working on plantations with fewer than 25 workers, domestic servants, casual workers, home workers, and family labor. Source of Funds Insured person: None. SSPTW: Africa, 2005 ♦ 149 South Africa A disability grant is considered permanent if the citizen is South Africa assessed as incapable of providing adequate self-support formore than 12 months. Exchange rate: US$1.00 equals 5.79 rand. Grant-in-aid: Payable to citizens receiving a disability grant who require the full-time attendance of another person as the result of a mental or physical condition. Old Age, Disability, and Survivors Citizens are eligible to receive only one benefit at a time. Regulatory Framework Survivor benefits: Benefits are provided underUnemployment, below. First laws: 1928 (old age), 1936 (blindness), and 1946 (disability). Old-Age Benefits Current law: 2004 (social assistance). Old-age pension (means-tested): Up to 740 rand a month for Type of program: Social assistance system. a single pensioner; married couples may receive double the amount. The pension is reduced to 25% of the full amount for Coverage pensioners who are resident for more than 3 months in a private care institution. Citizens with limited means. Grant-in-aid: 160 rand a month. Exclusions: Persons maintained or cared for in state institutions. War veteran grant (means-tested): Up to 758 rand a month. Special system for public-sector employees. Grant-in-aid: 160 rand a month. Source of Funds Permanent Disability Benefits Insured person: None. Disability grant (means-tested): Up to 740 rand a month for a single pensioner; married couples may receive double the Self-employed person: None. amount. Employer: None. Grant-in-aid: 160 rand a month. Government: Total cost. The government contributions also finance medical benefits Survivor Benefits under Sickness and Maternity, below. Benefits are provided under Unemployment, below. Qualifying Conditions Administrative Organization Old-age pension (means-tested): Age 65 (men) or age 60 (women) and a resident citizen at the time of the application. National and provincial offices of the Department of Social Development (http://www.welfare.gov.za) administer the Grant-in-aid: Payable to persons receiving the old-age pension program. who require the full-time attendance of another person as the result of a mental or physical condition. Sickness and Maternity Citizens are eligible to receive only one benefit at a time. War veteran grant (means-tested): Age 60 or disabled and a Regulatory Framework resident citizen at the time of the application. Eligibility is restricted to war veterans, including veterans of the First Current laws: 2001 (unemployment insurance), implemented World War, the Second World War, and the Korean War. in 2002; and 2003 (health), implemented in 2004. Grant-in-aid: Payable to persons receiving a war veteran grant Type of program: Social assistance system. Medical benefits who require the full-time attendance of another person as the only. result of a mental or physical condition. Citizens are eligible to receive only one benefit at a time. Coverage Disability grant (means-tested): Payable to citizens Sickness and maternity benefits: Cash sickness and assessed as incapable of providing adequate self-support for maternity benefits are payable under the 2001 unemployment more than 6 months. The temporary grant is paid if aged 18 to insurance legislation to eligible insured workers working more 64 (men) or aged 18 to 59 (women); payable from age 35 (men than 24 hours a month, the unemployed, or workers with and women) for a citizen with a terminal illness who is a earnings reduced to no more than 1/3 of the regular wage. resident at the time of the application. The disability must be confirmed by a medical assessment report. 150 ♦ SSPTW: Africa, 2005 South Africa Exclusions: Government employees and employees who work Dependents’ Medical Benefits fewer than 24 hours a month; foreigners who enter the country for the purpose of fulfilling an employment contract and who All old-age pensioners and disability pensioners are entitled to are required by law to leave the country upon the termination subsidized medical care at provincial hospitals. Benefits of the contract; and persons receiving a monthly state include hospitalization and medication. pension, any benefit from the work injury and occupational disease compensation fund, or benefits from any Administrative Organization unemployment fund or scheme. Department of Labor (http://www.labour.gov.za) provides Medical benefits: Old-age pensioners and disability general supervision. pensioners. Managed by a bipartite board, local unemployment benefit committees, and claims officers, the Unemployment Insurance Source of Funds Fund administers the program. Cash sickness and maternity benefits Insured person: See source of funds for Unemployment, Work Injury below. Self-employed person: See source of funds for Regulatory Framework Unemployment, below. First law: 1914. Employer: See source of funds for Unemployment, below. Current law: 1993 (occupational injuries and diseases), with Government: See source of funds for Unemployment, below. 1997 amendment. Type of program: Employer-liability system, involving Medical benefits compulsory insurance with a public carrier. Insured person: See source of funds for Old Age, Disability, and Survivors, above. Coverage Self-employed person: See source of funds for Old Age, Disability, and Survivors, above. Employed persons, including some contract workers and military personnel. Employer: See source of funds for Old Age, Disability, and Survivors, above. Exclusions: Domestic workers in private households and some contract workers and military personnel. Government: See source of funds for Old Age, Disability, and Survivors, above. Source of Funds Qualifying Conditions Insured person: None. Cash sickness benefits: Thirteen weeks of contributions in Self-employed person: Not applicable. the 52 weeks before the onset of illness for insured workers. Employer: Total cost met through the payment of insurance Cash maternity benefits: Thirteen weeks of contributions in premiums. The cost of premium varies, depending on the the 52 weeks before the expected date of childbirth (if adopting reported accident rate. a child, 18 weeks of contributions in the 52 weeks before the Government: None; contributes as an employer for date of adoption) for insured workers. government employees. Sickness and Maternity Benefits Qualifying Conditions Sickness benefit: The benefit is equal to 45% of the Work injury benefits: There is no minimum qualifying period. insured’s weekly earnings. The benefit is payable for 26 weeks Occupational disease benefits: Payable for 28 listed after a waiting period of 4 to 6 weeks. diseases (plus some unlisted diseases). The date of diagnosis Maternity benefit: The benefit is equal to 45% of the is the date of onset of the disease. insured’s weekly earnings. The benefit is payable from 18 weeks before and up to 8 weeks after the expected date of Temporary Disability Benefits childbirth. For a total disability, 75% of the insured’s earnings is payable for up to 12 months; may be extended up to 24 months (longer Workers’ Medical Benefits in special cases) after further evaluation of the disability. The All old-age pensioners and disability pensioners are entitled to benefit is payable after 3 days of incapacity for work. subsidized medical care at provincial hospitals. Benefits The maximum benefit is 2,418.75 rand a week or 10,481.25 rand a include hospitalization and medication. month. SSPTW: Africa, 2005 ♦ 151 South Africa The maximum earnings for benefit calculation purposes are Administrative Organization 3,255 rand a week or 13,975 rand a month. Department of Labor (http://www.labour.gov.za) provides Partial disability: A percentage of the insured’s earnings as general supervision. determined by the Compensation Commissioner’s Office is payable for up to 12 months; may be extended up to 24 months Compensation Commissioner administers the program, after a further assessment of the disability. including claims decisions and the management of funds from which benefits are paid. Permanent Disability Benefits Employers must normally insure against liability with a publiccompensation fund, but in certain instances may insure with an Permanent disability pension: For a total disability, the employers’ mutual association licensed by the Minister of maximum pension is 75% of the insured’s earnings. Labor. The minimum monthly benefit is 1,146.15 rand. Government and some local authorities are individually liable. The maximum monthly earnings for benefit calculation purposes are 9,321 rand. Unemployment Partial disability: If the assessed degree of disability is less than 100% but higher than 30%, a percentage of the full Regulatory Framework pension according to the assessed degree of disability. First law: 1937. For an assessed degree of disability of 30% or less, a lump sum Current laws: 1966 (unemployment), implemented in 1967, equal to 15 times the employee’s monthly earnings is paid, up with amendments; 2001 (unemployment insurance); and 2002 to a maximum of 7,830.00 rand. If the employee’s earnings are (contributions). less than 1,528.20 rand a month, the minimum is calculated on the monthly basis of 1,528.20 rand. Type of program: Social insurance system. The minimum lump sum is 22,923 rand. The maximum lump sum is 117,450 rand. Coverage All employees working for more than 24 hours a month, Workers’ Medical Benefits including domestic and seasonal workers and employees in national and provincial governments. Benefits include medical, surgical, and hospital care and Exclusions: Government employees and employees who work appliances. Benefits are provided for a maximum of 2 years; fewer than 24 hours a month; foreigners who enter the country may be extended in special cases. for the purpose of fulfilling an employment contract and who The cost of transporting an injured employee to a hospital, a are required by law to leave the country upon the termination doctor’s surgery, or to his or her place of residence is refunded of the contract; and persons receiving a monthly state from the compensation fund. pension, any benefit from the work injury and occupational disease compensation fund, or benefits from any Survivor Benefits unemployment fund or scheme. Survivor pension: The pension is equal to 40% of the deceased’s permanent total disability pension, plus a lump sum Source of Funds of 18,642 rand. The pension is payable to a widow or to a Insured person: 1% of earnings. disabled widower for life. The pension does not cease on The maximum annual earnings for contribution purposes are remarriage. 106,032 rand. Orphan’s pension: 20% of the deceased’s permanent total The above contributions also finance cash sickness and disability pension is paid for each unmarried orphan younger maternity benefits under Sickness and Maternity, above. than age 18; no age limit if disabled. Self-employed person: Not applicable. The maximum total survivor pension is 10,481.25 rand a month. Employer: 1% of the insured’s earnings. The total survivor pension payable to the widow(er) and children must not exceed the deceased’s permanent total The maximum annual earnings for contribution purposes are disability pension. 106,032 rand. Funeral grant: 8,316 rand or the actual cost of the funeral The above contributions also finance cash sickness and (whichever is lower), at the Compensation Commissioner’s maternity benefits under Sickness and Maternity, above. discretion. Government: 25% of total employee and employer contributions, up to an annual maximum of 7 million rand. The maximum annual earnings for contribution purposes are 106,032 rand. 152 ♦ SSPTW: Africa, 2005 South Africa The above contributions also finance cash sickness and Source of Funds maternity benefits under Sickness and Maternity, above. Insured person: None. Qualifying Conditions Self-employed person: None. Employer: None. Unemployment benefit: Entitlement to benefit increases at a rate of 1 day’s benefit for every 6 completed days of Government: Total cost. employment, up to a maximum of 238 days in the 4-year period before the date of application for the benefit. The insured must Qualifying Conditions have 13 weeks of contributions during the last 52 weeks and be capable of, and available for, work. The insured must register Family allowances with, and report to, the public employment exchange, unless Foster child grant (means-tested): Payable to a foster parent. unemployment is the result of illness or pregnancy. There must be a court order indicating the foster care status of Unemployment must not be the result of refusing suitable work the child, and the child must be a resident citizen at the time of or training. Unemployment benefit is payable after 14 days of the application. unemployment. Means test: The applicant must have annual income of less Survivor benefit: The surviving spouse or a life-partner of than 12,720 rand. the deceased must apply for the benefit within 6 months after Citizens are eligible to receive only one benefit at a time. the insured’s death. In the absence of a surviving spouse or life-partner, the benefit is paid to a dependent child. The child Child support grant (means-tested): Payable to the primary must be younger than age 21 (age 25 if a student) and have caregiver of a child or children aged 1 to 10. (The age limit is to been totally or largely dependent on the deceased. be raised to age 14 by 2006.) The child must be a residentcitizen at the time of the application, and the applicant and his or her spouse must pass the means test. The grant is payable Unemployment Benefits for care provided to a maximum of six children. Unemployment benefit: The benefit varies between 30.78% Means test: The applicant must have annual income of less and 58.64% of previous earnings, depending on the insured’s than 9,600 rand (urban areas) or 13,200 rand (rural areas). period of service and previous earnings. Citizens are eligible to receive only one benefit at a time. Survivor benefit: The benefit varies between 30.78% and Care dependency grant (means-tested): Payable to a parent, 58.64% of previous earnings, depending on the insured’s foster parent, guardian, or custodian of a child aged 1 to 18 period of service and previous earnings. The benefit is who requires permanent care as the result of a severe mental or payable for up to 26 weeks. physical disability. The child must be cared for at home and the disability confirmed by a medical assessment report. The Administrative Organization child must be a resident citizen at the time of the application. The applicant, spouse, and child must pass a means test. Department of Labor (http://www.labour.gov.za) provides general supervision. Citizens are eligible to receive only one benefit at a time. Managed through its board and regional business unit Social relief of distress (means-tested): Temporary assistance managers, the Unemployment Insurance Fund administers the is payable to persons unable to meet their own or their family’s program. basic living costs. Citizens are eligible to receive only one benefit at a time. Family Allowances Family Allowance Benefits Regulatory Framework Family allowances Current law: 2004 (social assistance). Foster child grant (means-tested): Up to 530 rand a month. Type of program: Social assistance system. Child support grant (means-tested): Up to 170 rand a month for each child, up to a maximum of six children. Coverage Care dependency grant (means-tested): Up to 740 rand a Low-income persons caring for children younger than age 18. month. Exclusions: Persons maintained or cared for in state Social relief of distress (means-tested): Issued monthly or for institutions. any other period for a maximum of 3 months; may be extendedby 3 months in exceptional cases. SSPTW: Africa, 2005 ♦ 153 South Africa Administrative Organization National and provincial offices of the Department of Social Development (http://www.welfare.gov.za) administer the program. 154 ♦ SSPTW: Africa, 2005 Sudan an unmarried daughter or if disabled). In the absence of a Sudan surviving widow and children, the pension is paid todependent brothers, sisters, and parents. Exchange rate: US$1.00 equals 255.29 dinars. Death grant: Paid for the death of the insured or a pensioner. In the absence of a surviving widow(er), children, or parents, the benefit is paid to dependent brothers and sisters. Old Age, Disability, and Survivors Old-Age Benefits Regulatory Framework Old-age pension: The pension is equal to 1/50 of the First law: 1974. insured’s average monthly earnings in the 3 years before Current law: 1990 (social insurance), with 2004 amendment. retirement for each 12-month period of contributions. Type of program: Social insurance system. The minimum pension is equal to 40% of the insured’s average monthly earnings in the 3 years before retirement. Coverage The maximum pension is equal to 80% of the insured’s average monthly earnings in the 3 years before retirement. Employed persons and the self-employed. The pension may be partially paid as a lump sum, without Exclusions: Domestic servants, home workers, family labor, interest. farmers and foresters, and unpaid apprentices. Early pension: The pension is reduced by 15% if the insured is Special systems for civil servants, the police force, and armed aged 50 to 54 or by 10% if aged 55 to 59. forces personnel. Old-age settlement: A refund of 100% of employer and employee contributions; the adjusted value of contributions Source of Funds for insured persons resigning from work or laid off. Insured person: 8% of gross monthly earnings. (Contributions for work periods in uncovered employment may Permanent Disability Benefits be paid retroactively by the insured person.) Disability pension: The pension is equal to 50% of the Self-employed person: 25% of monthly income. (The insured’s average monthly earnings in the 3 years before the declared monthly income for contribution purposes is chosen onset of disability or 1/50 of the same earnings for each 12- by the self-employed person from earnings classes ranging month period of contributions, whichever is higher. from 15,000 pounds to 200,000 pounds.) The minimum pension is equal to 40% of the insured’s average Employer: 15% of gross monthly payroll. monthly earnings in the 3 years before retirement. Government: None. The maximum pension is equal to 80% of the insured’s average monthly earnings in the 3 years before the onset of disability. Qualifying Conditions Old-age pension: Age 60 with 20 years of contributions. The Survivor Benefits normal retirement age is reduced for those in arduous work. Survivor pension: The maximum pension is equal to 50% of Retirement from work is necessary. the deceased’s average monthly earnings in the 3 years before Early pension: Payable from age 50 with at least 20 years of death or 1/50 of the same earnings for each 12-month period of contributions. contributions, whichever is higher. If there is more than one Old-age settlement: Paid at the normal retirement age to an widow, the pension is split equally among them. insured person who is ineligible for the old-age pension; at any The eligible widow(er) receives 90% of the pension if there are age to an insured person resigning from work or laid off. no other eligible survivors (50% if there are either eligible Disability pension: Payable for a permanent total incapacity. parents or children; 30% if there are eligible children and There is no minimum qualifying period. The onset of disability parents). Full orphans receive 100% of the pension. occurred while in insured employment or within 1 year of Surviving parents receive 90% of the pension if there are no insured employment ceasing and before reaching the normal other eligible survivors; 75% if there are surviving brothers retirement age. and sisters. Survivor pension: Payable for the death of the insured or a Death grant: A lump sum equal to 42 months’ earnings is paid pensioner. There is no minimum qualifying period. to eligible survivors for the death of an insured person; Eligible survivors are a widow or a dependent widower and 42 months’ pension if the deceased was a pensioner. children younger than age 18 (age 26 if a student, no limit for SSPTW: Africa, 2005 ♦ 155 Sudan Administrative Organization Constant-attendance supplement: Equal to 50% of the pension. Minister of Manpower provides general supervision. Partial disability: With an assessed degree of disability of at National Social Insurance Fund administers the program. least 15%, a percentage of the full benefit according to the assessed degree of disability. Sickness and Maternity Workers’ Medical Benefits Regulatory Framework Medical treatment is provided by public health services. No statutory cash benefits are provided. Transportation is provided by the employer. Under the 2004 Health Insurance Act, the Health Insurance Fund manages a special health insurance system for public- Survivor Benefits sector employees and insured pensioners. Survivor pension: The maximum pension is equal to 80% of the deceased’s average monthly earnings in the last 3 years Work Injury before death. Regulatory Framework The eligible widow(er) receives 90% of the pension if there are no other eligible survivors (50% if there are either eligible First law: 1947. parents or children; 30% if there are eligible children and Current law: 1990 (social insurance), with 2004 amendment. parents). Full orphans receive 100% of the pension. Type of program: Social insurance system. Surviving parents receive 90% of the pension if there are no other eligible survivors; 75% if there are surviving brothers and sisters. Coverage Eligible survivors are the widow or dependent widower; Employed persons and the self-employed. children younger than age 18 or disabled; unmarried Exclusions: Domestic servants, home workers, family labor, daughters; and dependent brothers, sisters, and parents. farmers and foresters, unpaid apprentices, and convicted Death grant: A lump sum equal to 42 months’ earnings is paid persons working in prison workshops. to eligible survivors for the death of an insured person; Special systems for civil servants, the police force, and armed 42 months’ pension if the deceased was a pensioner. forces personnel. Administrative Organization Source of Funds Minister of Labor and Administrative Reform provides general Insured person: None. supervision. Self-employed person: See source of funds under Old Age, National Social Insurance Fund administers the program. Disability, and Survivors, above. Medical care is provided by public health services. Employer: 2% of gross monthly payroll. Employers must insure against liability with private insurance Government: None. companies. Qualifying Conditions Work injury benefits: There is no minimum qualifying period. Accidents that occur while commuting to and from work are covered. Temporary Disability Benefits The benefit is equal to 80% of the insured’s monthly average earnings in the 3 years before the onset of disability multiplied by the assessed degree of disability. Permanent Disability Benefits Permanent disability pension: For a total disability, 80% of the insured’s monthly average earnings in the last 3 years before the onset of disability. 156 ♦ SSPTW: Africa, 2005 Swaziland Old-Age Benefits Swaziland Total employer and employee contributions, plus interest. The Exchange rate: US$1.00 equals 5.79 lilangeni. benefit may be paid as a lump sum, in installments, or converted to an annuity. Interest rate: A minimum of 3% a year. Old Age, Disability, and Survivors Permanent Disability Benefits Regulatory Framework Total employer and employee contributions, plus interest. The First and current law: 1974. benefit may be paid as a lump sum, in installments, or Type of program: Provident fund system. converted to an annuity. Interest rate: A minimum of 3% a year. Coverage Survivor Benefits Employed persons. Exclusions: Casual employees, self-employed persons, Total employer and employee contributions, plus interest. The domestic workers, and foreign workers. benefit may be paid as a lump sum, in installments, orconverted to an annuity. Voluntary coverage for employees not compulsorily covered and for members of religious organizations. Interest rate: A minimum of 3% a year. Special system for civil servants. Administrative Organization Source of Funds Ministry of Finance (http://www.gov.sz) provides general supervision. Insured person: 5% of earnings. Managed by a tripartite board and director, the National The maximum monthly earnings for contribution purposes are Provident Fund (http://www.snpf.co.sz) administers the 600 lilangeni. program. Self-employed person: Not applicable. Employer: 5% of payroll. Work Injury The maximum monthly earnings for contribution purposes are 600 lilangeni. Regulatory Framework Government: None. First law: 1963. Current law: 1983. Qualifying Conditions Type of program: Employer-liability system, involving Old-age benefit: Age 50 (age 45 if covered employment compulsory insurance with a private carrier. ceases); any age if emigrating permanently. Benefits are payable abroad only if there is a reciprocal Coverage agreement. Employed persons in the private and public sectors, trainees, Disability benefit: Payable for a permanent total or partial and apprentices. disability. Exclusions: Domestic servants, types of contract workers, Benefits are payable abroad only if there is a reciprocal family labor, and casual workers. agreement. Survivor benefit: Payable for the death of the fund member Source of Funds before retirement. Insured person: None. The eligible survivor is the spouse. In the absence of the spouse, the eligible survivors are other dependents or other Self-employed person: Not applicable. persons designated by the fund member. Employer: Total cost, met through the payment of insurance Benefits are payable abroad only if there is a reciprocal premiums. agreement. Government: None. SSPTW: Africa, 2005 ♦ 157 Swaziland Qualifying Conditions Administrative Organization Work injury benefits: There is no minimum qualifying period. Department of Labor of the Ministry of Enterprise and Accidents that occur while commuting to and from work are Employment (http://www.gov.sz) enforces the law. covered. Employers must insure the assessed liability with a private insurance company. Temporary Disability Benefits 75% of the insured’s earnings are payable after a 3-day waiting period until full recovery or certification of permanent disability. The benefit is payable for a maximum of 24 months. The benefit may be paid as a lump sum calculated according to the expected duration of the disability. The minimum monthly earnings for benefit calculation purposes are 75 lilangeni. The maximum monthly earnings for benefit calculation purposes are 500 lilangeni. Permanent Disability Benefits For a total disability, a lump sum equal to 54 times the insured’s monthly earnings at the time of the accident. Constant-attendance allowance: A lump sum equal to 25% of the permanent disability benefit if totally disabled. Partial disability: A percentage of the full benefit according to the loss of working capacity. The minimum monthly earnings for benefit calculation purposes are 75 lilangeni. The maximum monthly earnings for benefit calculation purposes are 500 lilangeni. Workers’ Medical Benefits Benefits include medical care, surgery, hospitalization, medicines, dental and eye care, transportation, appliances, and medical care abroad if necessary (up to a maximum of 6,325 lilangeni). Survivor Benefits Survivor benefit: The survivors receive a lump sum equal to 48 times the deceased’s monthly earning at the time of the accident, minus any permanent disability benefits paid to the deceased. The minimum monthly earnings for benefit calculation purposes are 75 lilangeni. The maximum monthly earnings for benefit calculation purposes are 500 lilangeni. Eligible survivors are an unemployed widow, a disabled widower, and children; a reduced benefit is paid to survivors who were partially dependent on the deceased. Funeral grant: A lump sum is paid by the employer to cover the cost of the funeral, up to a maximum of 300 lilangeni. 158 ♦ SSPTW: Africa, 2005 Tanzania All of the above contributions also finance cash maternity Tanzania benefits, medical benefits, and work injury benefits. Government: None; contributes as an employer for public- Exchange rate: US$1.00 equals 1,054 shillings. sector employees. Qualifying Conditions Old Age, Disability, and Survivors Old-age pension: Age 60 with at least 180 months of Regulatory Framework contributions; earlier than age 60 if leaving the country permanently. Covered employment must cease. Current and first laws: 1964 (provident fund); and 1997 (social insurance), implemented in 1998. Insured persons who were within 14 years of the retirement age in July 1998 and who have fewer than 180 months of Type of program: Social insurance system. contributions at age 60 may receive a basic pension, as may be Note: Under transitional rules, the provident fund system determined by the director general of the National Social continues to operate for insured persons who opted in 1998 to Security Fund. remain covered by the provident fund. Early pension: From age 55 with at least 180 months of contributions. Coverage Deferred pension: A deferred pension is possible. There is no Employees in the private sector (except in private companies maximum deferral period. covered by the parastatal special system), organized groups Old-age grant: Age 60 and less than 180 months of (such as cooperative members) in the formal sector, and public contributions. Covered employment must cease. employees and self-employed persons not covered under the Old-age benefits are not payable abroad. parastatal special system. Disability pension: A loss of 2/3 of earning capacity with at Exclusions: Domestic workers. least 180 months of contributions or 36 months of Voluntary coverage is possible. contributions including 12 months in the 36 months Special contributory systems for employees of parastatal immediately before the onset of disability. organizations, including private companies in which the The disability is assessed by a medical board comprising government owns shares and parastatal organizations that doctors appointed by Ministry of Health. The insured may be have been restructured or sold; the self-employed, including required to undergo medical examination by the medical board. informal-sector workers; workers who start new employment Disability grant: The insured does not meet the qualifying when aged 46 or older; expatriates; persons with seasonal conditions for a pension. income; and local authority employees. Special noncontributory systems for armed forces personnel and Disability benefits are not payable abroad. political leaders. Survivor pension: The deceased satisfied the qualifying conditions for an old-age or disability pension at the time of Source of Funds death. Survivor grant: The deceased was a pensioner at the time of Insured person: 10% of gross earnings; voluntary death. contributors pay a monthly amount equal to 20% of declared income but no less than 20% of the statutory minimum wage. Eligible survivors are a widow(er) and children younger than age 18 (age 21 if a student, no limit if disabled). In the absence Previous contributions made to the National Provident Fund of a spouse and children, parents may be eligible. are converted into contribution credits. Survivor benefits are not payable abroad. Contributions are paid on behalf of insured women who are receiving maternity benefits. Funeral grant: One month of contributions and employed at the time of the death. The grant is payable to the person who All of the above contributions also finance cash maternity paid for the funeral. benefits, medical benefits, and work injury benefits. Self-employed person: 20% of monthly earnings but no less than 20% of the statutory minimum wage. Old-Age Benefits All of the above contributions also finance cash maternity Old-age pension: The pension is equal to 30% of the benefits, medical benefits, and work injury benefits. insured’s average monthly earnings in the best 5 of the last 10 years before retirement, plus 1.5% for each 12-month period Employer: 10% of gross payroll. of insurance coverage beyond 180 months. Contributions are paid on behalf of insured women who are receiving maternity benefits. SSPTW: Africa, 2005 ♦ 159 Tanzania The insured receives a lump-sum payment equal to 24 times the Survivor Benefits monthly pension in the first month and thereafter a monthly pension. Survivor pension: 100% of the pension is payable to a widow(er) without dependent children; 40% of the deceased’s The minimum pension is 80% of the monthly statutory pension is payable to the spouse if an orphan’s pension is also minimum wage. payable. If there is more than one widow, the pension is split The monthly statutory minimum wage is 48,000 shillings (urban equally among them. areas) and 35,000 shillings (rural areas). The pension ceases on remarriage. The maximum pension is 67.5% of the insured’s monthly The widow(er)’s pension is paid for a limited period of 2 years earnings used to calculate the pension. if the widow(er) is younger than age 45 or does not have a Under the provident fund transition rules, an insured person dependent child younger than age 15 at the date of the who qualifies for an old-age pension within the first 5 years of insured’s death. operation of the National Social Security Fund (NSSF) may opt The minimum pension is 80% of the legal minimum wage. for a lump-sum payment under the former provident fund or a monthly pension under the NSSF. The maximum pension is 67.5% of average monthly insurable earnings. Early pension: The pension is reduced by 0.5% of the insured’s earnings used to calculate the pension for each 12- Orphan’s pension: 60% of the deceased’s pension is split month period the early pension is taken before age 60. The equally among eligible children; 100% for full orphans. early pension can be paid only if the calculated pension is at Parent’s pension (in the absence of other eligible least equal to the minimum pension. survivors): 100% of the deceased’s pension. Deferred pension: Calculated in the same way as the old-age The survivors receive a lump-sum payment equal to 24 times pension. the monthly pension in the first month and thereafter a Old-age grant: The grant is equal to the insured’s last monthly pension. monthly contribution times the number of months of Under the provident fund transition rules, survivors who contributions and is based on both employee and employer qualify for a survivor pension within the first 5 years of contributions. There is no minimum benefit. operation of the National Social Security Fund may opt for a Benefit adjustment: Benefits are reviewed periodically by the lump-sum payment under the former provident fund or a Board of the National Social Security Fund and adjusted in line monthly pension under the NSSF. with the actuarial valuation of the fund. Survivor grant: A lump sum equal to 12 months of the deceased’s pension. Permanent Disability Benefits Funeral grant: A lump sum is paid (between 75,000 and 300,000 shillings). Disability pension: The pension is equal to 30% of the insured’s average monthly earnings in the best 5 of the last Benefit adjustment: Benefits are reviewed periodically by the 10 years before the onset of disability, plus 1% for each 12- Board of the National Social Security Fund and adjusted in line month period of insurance coverage beyond 180 months. with the actuarial valuation of the fund. The insured receives a lump-sum payment equal to 24 times the monthly pension in the first month and thereafter a monthly Administrative Organization pension. Ministry of Labor and Youth Development provides general The minimum pension is 80% of the legal minimum wage. supervision. The maximum pension is 67.5% of average monthly insurable Managed by a director general, the National Social Security earnings. Fund (http://www.nssftz.com) administers the program. The disability pension can be converted into an old-age pension at age 60 if the old-age pension is equal to or higher Sickness and Maternity than the disability pension. Under the provident fund transition rules, an insured person Regulatory Framework who qualifies for a disability pension within the first 5 years of First and current law: 1997 (social insurance), implemented in operation of the National Social Security Fund may opt for a 1999. lump-sum payment under the former provident fund or a monthly pension under the NSSF. Type of program: Social insurance system. Cash maternity benefit and medical benefits. Disability grant: A lump-sum payment based on contri- butions. Coverage Benefit adjustment: Benefits are reviewed periodically by the Board of the National Social Security Fund and adjusted in line Employees in the private sector (except private companies with the actuarial valuation of the fund. covered under the parastatal special system), organized groups 160 ♦ SSPTW: Africa, 2005 Tanzania (such as cooperative members) in the formal sector, and public Dependents’ Medical Benefits employees and self-employed persons not covered under the parastatal special system. Benefits include inpatient and outpatient health care services. Medical benefits are provided by accredited hospitals under Voluntary coverage for old-age pensioners. agreement with the National Social Security Fund. Exclusions: Domestic workers. Prenatal and postnatal care is provided from the 24th week of Special system for public-sector employees. pregnancy and ceases 2 days after childbirth; 7 days after childbirth for a cesarean section and up to 12 weeks after Source of Funds delivery if prolonged care is necessary. Eligible dependents are the spouse and up to four of the Insured person: See source of funds under Old Age, insured’s children. Disability, and Survivors, above; old-age pensioners make a voluntary contribution equal to 6% of their monthly pension. Administrative Organization Any previous contributions made to the National Provident Fund are converted into contribution credits. Managed by a director general, the National Social Security Self-employed person: See source of funds under Old Age, Fund (http://www.nssftz.com) administers the program. Disability, and Survivors, above. Employer: See source of funds under Old Age, Disability, and Work Injury Survivors, above. Government: See source of funds under Old Age, Disability, Regulatory Framework and Survivors, above. First law: 1948. Current law: 1997 (social insurance), implemented in 2002. Qualifying Conditions Type of program: Social insurance system. Cash sickness benefits: No statutory benefits are provided. Cash maternity benefits: Thirty-six months of contributions Coverage including 12 months in the 36 months immediately before the Employees in the private sector (except in private companies expected date of childbirth. Cash maternity benefits are covered by the parastatal special system), organized groups payable to an insured woman only once in each 3-year period. (such as cooperative members) in the formal sector, and public Medical benefit: Three months of contributions immediately employees and self-employed persons not covered under the before the onset of the medical contingency. parastatal special system. Exclusions: Domestic workers. Sickness and Maternity Benefits Sickness benefit: No statutory benefits are provided. Source of Funds Maternity benefit: The benefit is equal to 100% of the insured Insured person: See source of funds under Old Age, woman’s average daily earnings in the 6 months before the Disability, and Survivors, above. 20th week of pregnancy. The benefit is paid for 12 weeks in Self-employed person: See source of funds under Old Age, two installments: 4 weeks before and 8 weeks after childbirth Disability, and Survivors, above. (4 weeks after childbirth for a stillborn child). Employer: See source of funds under Old Age, Disability, and Benefit adjustment: Benefits are reviewed periodically by the Survivors, above. Board of the National Social Security Fund and adjusted in line with the actuarial valuation of the fund. Government: See source of funds under Old Age, Disability, and Survivors, above. Workers’ Medical Benefits Qualifying Conditions Benefits include inpatient and outpatient health care services. Medical benefits are provided by accredited hospitals under Work injury benefits: Must be registered with the National agreement with the National Social Security Fund. Social Security Fund and assessed with a work injury or occupational disease. Prenatal and postnatal care is provided from the 24th week of pregnancy and ceases 2 days after childbirth; 7 days after childbirth for a cesarean section and up to 12 weeks after Temporary Disability Benefits delivery if prolonged care is necessary. The benefit is equal to 50% of the insured’s average daily earnings and is payable for up to 26 weeks. SSPTW: Africa, 2005 ♦ 161 Tanzania Permanent Disability Benefits The benefit is equal to 60% of the insured’s average daily earnings and is payable for up to 7 years. Constant-attendance allowance: Equal to 25% of the permanent disability benefit. Workers’ Medical Benefits Benefits include medical, surgical, hospital, and nursing care; prostheses; and the cost of medicines, appliances, and transportation up to predetermined ceilings. Survivor Benefits Survivor benefit: A lump sum equal to twice the deceased’s average monthly earnings. Funeral grant: A lump sum of up to 300,000 shillings is payable to the person who paid for the funeral. Administrative Organization Ministry of Labor and Youth Development provides general supervision. Managed by a director general, the National Social Security Fund (http://www.nssftz.com) administers the program. Unemployment Regulatory Framework No statutory benefits are provided. The labor code requires employers to provide severance pay to employees with continuous service of at least 3 months. 162 ♦ SSPTW: Africa, 2005 Togo The pension is payable abroad only if there is a reciprocal Togo agreement. Exchange rate: US$1.00 equals Survivor pension: The deceased met the pension 493.54 CFA francs. requirements, was a pensioner at the time of death, or had 180 months of insurance coverage. Survivor settlement: The deceased was ineligible for a Old Age, Disability, and Survivors pension but had at least 12 months of insurance coverage. Eligible survivors are a widow aged 40 or older or disabled who Regulatory Framework was married to the deceased for at least 1 year or who is pregnant or has a child by the deceased; a dependent disabled First law: 1968. widower who was married to the deceased for at least 1 year; Current law: 1973 (social security), with 2001 amendment. and children younger than age 16 (age 18 if an apprentice, Type of program: Social insurance system. age 21 if a student or disabled). The pension is payable abroad only if there is a reciprocal Coverage agreement. Employed persons, including agricultural salaried workers and Old-Age Benefits domestic workers. Exclusions: Self-employed persons. Old-age pension: The monthly pension is equal to 20% of the insured’s average monthly earnings during the last 5 years, Special systems for civil servants and armed forces personnel. plus 1.33% of earnings for each 12-month period of Supplementary retirement scheme for managerial staff of public contributions beyond 180 months. and semipublic companies. The minimum pension is 80% of the legal monthly minimum Voluntary coverage for persons previously insured for at least wage (14,444 CFA francs in 2004). 6 consecutive months. The maximum pension is equal to 100 times the legal monthly minimum wage. Source of Funds If the insured is entitled to receive two or more pensions, the Insured person: 4% of gross earnings. Voluntarily insured full amount of the higher pension and half the amount of the persons contribute on the basis of average gross earnings in other pension(s) are paid. the last 3 months of salaried activity. Old-age settlement: A lump sum equal to 1 month of the Self-employed person: Not applicable. insured’s average monthly earnings during the last 5 years for each year of insurance coverage. Employer: 8% of gross payroll; contributions are reduced to 7.4% of gross payroll if 5% of the employer’s workforce is Benefit adjustment: Pensions are adjusted by decree for assessed as disabled. changes in the cost of living and the legal minimum wage, depending on the financial resources of the system. (The last Contributions are paid monthly by employers with 20 or more adjustment was made in 1997.) employees or quarterly by employers with 1 to 19 employees. Government: None; contributes as an employer for public- Permanent Disability Benefits sector employees who are not civil servants. Disability pension: The monthly pension is equal to 20% of Qualifying Conditions the insured’s average monthly earnings during the last 5 years,plus 1.33% of earnings for each 12-month period of Old-age pension: Age 55 (age 50 if prematurely aged) or the contributions beyond 180 months. The insured is credited insured has 30 years of actual coverage. Must have a minimum with a 6-month contribution period for each year that the claim of 10 years of contributions. Retirement from salaried is made before age 55. employment is necessary. The minimum pension is 80% of the legal monthly minimum The pension is payable abroad only if there is a reciprocal wage (14,444 CFA francs in 2004). agreement. The maximum pension is equal to 100 times the legal monthly Old-age settlement: Aged 55 and ineligible for the old-age minimum wage. pension. Must have at least 12 months of insurance coverage. Constant-attendance supplement: Equal to 50% of the Retirement from salaried employment is necessary. insured’s pension. Disability pension: A loss of 2/3 of earning capacity with If the insured also receives a disability pension under the work 5 years of insurance coverage including 6 months of injury program, the work injury disability pension is paid in full contributions in the last year. There is no qualifying period for a disability that is the result of a nonwork-related accident. SSPTW: Africa, 2005 ♦ 163 Togo along with the part of the nonwork injury permanent disability Sickness and Maternity pension that exceeds this amount. The disability pension ceases at age 50 and is replaced by an Regulatory Framework old-age pension of the same value. First law: 1956. The insured may be required to undergo medical examinations Current law: 1973 (social security). by a doctor approved or designated by the National Social Security Fund. Type of program: Social insurance system. Maternity benefits only. Benefit adjustment: Pensions are adjusted by decree for changes in the cost of living and the legal minimum wage, depending on the financial resources of the system. (The last Coverage adjustment was made in 1997.) Employed women, including agricultural salaried workers, domestic workers, and casual or temporary workers. Survivor Benefits Exclusions: Self-employed persons, cooperative members, Survivor pension: 50% of the monthly pension the deceased apprentices, and students. received or would have received at the time of death is payable Special systems for civil servants and armed forces personnel. to the eligible spouse. If there is more than one widow, the pension is split equally among them. Source of Funds The pension ceases on remarriage. Insured person: None. Orphan’s pension: 25% of the monthly pension the deceased received or would have received at the time of death is payable Self-employed person: Not applicable. for each orphan; 40% for each full orphan. Employer: See source of funds under Family Allowances, The value of the orphan’s pension must not be less than the below. value of family allowances. An orphan receiving the pension Government: None. may not receive family allowances. The total survivor pension must not exceed 100% of the Qualifying Conditions pension the deceased received or would have received at the time of death; otherwise, the pensions are reduced Cash sickness benefits: No statutory benefits are provided. proportionately. (The labor code requires employers to provide paid sick leave.) If an eligible survivor also receives a survivor pension under Cash maternity benefits: Twelve months of insurance the work injury program, the work injury survivor pension is coverage before the expected date of childbirth. paid in full along with the part of the nonwork injury survivor Benefits are payable abroad only if there is a reciprocal pension that exceeds this amount. agreement. Survivor settlement: A lump sum equal to 1 month of the pension the deceased would have been entitled to with Sickness and Maternity Benefits 120 insurance months for each 6-month period of insurance coverage. An orphan receiving the settlement may continue to Sickness benefit: No statutory benefits are provided. (The receive family allowances. labor code requires employers to provide paid sick leave.) Benefit adjustment: Pensions are adjusted by decree for Maternity benefit: The daily benefits are equal to 100% of the changes in the cost of living and the legal minimum wage, insured’s average daily earnings in the last 3 months (the depending on the financial resources of the system. (The last employer pays half of the value of the benefit). The benefit is adjustment was made in 1997.) payable for up to 8 weeks before the expected date ofchildbirth and 6 weeks after; may be extended for up to 3 weeks in case of complications. Administrative Organization Ministry of Public Function, Labor, and Employment provides Workers’ Medical Benefits general supervision. No statutory benefits are provided. (The labor code requires Managed by a tripartite council and a director, the National employers to provide certain medical services.) Social Security Fund administers the program. Dependents’ Medical Benefits No statutory benefits are provided. (Some maternity and child health care and welfare services are provided under Family Allowances, below.) 164 ♦ SSPTW: Africa, 2005 Togo Administrative Organization Constant-attendance supplement: Equal to 50% of the disability pension. Ministry of Public Function, Labor, and Employment provides general supervision. The pension may be partially converted to a lump sum after receiving the pension for 5 years. Managed by a tripartite council and a director, the National Social Security Fund administers the program. If the insured also receives a disability pension under the old- age, disability, and survivors program, the work injury permanent disability pension is paid in full along with the part Work Injury of the nonwork injury disability pension that exceeds this amount. Regulatory Framework The combined receipt of the work injury permanent disability First law: 1964. pension with the old-age pension is allowed under certain Current law: 1973 (social security). conditions. Type of program: Social insurance system. The pension is paid monthly, quarterly, or annually, depending on its value. Coverage The insured may be required to undergo medical examinations by a doctor approved or designated by the National Social Employed persons, including under certain conditions Security Fund every 6 months during the first 2 years; agricultural salaried workers, domestic workers, casual and thereafter, once a year. temporary workers, and detached civil servants working for a Benefit adjustment: Pensions are adjusted by decree for public company. changes in the cost of living and the legal minimum wage, Exclusions: Self-employed persons. depending on the financial resources of the system. (The last Special systems for civil servants. adjustment was made in 1997.) Source of Funds Workers’ Medical Benefits Insured person: None. Benefits include medical, dental, and surgical care; hospitalization; medicines; appliances; transportation; and Self-employed person: Not applicable. rehabilitation. Employer: 2.5% of gross payroll. Contributions are paid monthly by employers with 20 or more Survivor Benefits employees or quarterly by employers with 1 to 19 employees. Survivor pension: The pension is equal to 30% of the Government: None; contributes as an employer for public- deceased’s average earnings in the 3 months before the onset sector employees who are not civil servants. of disability. The pension is payable to a widow who was married to the deceased before the onset of disability (or at Qualifying Conditions least 1 year before the deceased’s death) and to a dependent disabled widower. If there is more than one widow, the pension Work injury benefits: There is no minimum qualifying period. is split equally among them. Accidents that occur while commuting to and from work are covered. The pension ceases on remarriage. Orphan’s pension: The pension is equal to 10% of the Temporary Disability Benefits deceased’s average earnings in the 3 months before the onset of disability for each orphan younger than age 16 (age 18 if an The daily benefit is equal to 2/3 of the insured’s average daily apprentice, age 21 if a student or disabled); 15% for each full earnings in the last 3 months. Benefit is payable from the day orphan. after the onset of disability until full recovery or certification of permanent disability. The benefits may be paid weekly or Dependent parent’s and grandparent’s pension: The monthly. pension is equal to 10% of the deceased’s average earnings inthe 3 months before the onset of disability each. The total survivor pension must not exceed 100% of the Permanent Disability Benefits insured’s full permanent disability pension; otherwise, the Permanent disability pension: If totally disabled, the pensions are reduced proportionately. pension is equal to 85% of the insured’s average earnings in The pension is paid monthly, quarterly, or annually, depending the 3 months before the onset of disability. on its value. Partial disability: A percentage of the full pension according to the assessed degree of disability; a lump sum of 3 years’ pension is paid if the assessed disability is less than 20%. SSPTW: Africa, 2005 ♦ 165 Togo If an eligible survivor also receives survivor benefits under the parent must have 3 consecutive months of employment and be old-age, disability, and survivors program, the work injury currently working 18 days or 120 hours a month (or receiving a survivor pension is paid in full along with the part of the social insurance benefit). nonwork injury survivor pension that exceeds this amount. The child must not receive an orphan’s pension. Funeral grant: Equal to 30 days of the deceased’s average If one of the parents receives family allowances from the earnings in the 3 months before the onset of disability. special system for civil servants, only the higher benefit award Benefit adjustment: Pensions are adjusted by decree for is paid. changes in the cost of living and the legal minimum wage, Prenatal allowance: Must undergo prescribed medical depending on the financial resources of the system. (The last examinations. adjustment was made in 1997.) Birth grant: Payable for the birth of each of the first three children. The insured’s spouse must not be in salaried Administrative Organization employment. Ministry of Public Function, Labor, and Employment provides Benefits are payable abroad only if there is a reciprocal general supervision. agreement. Managed by a tripartite council and a director, the National Social Security Fund administers contributions and benefits. Family Allowance Benefits Employers must insure against liability with the National Social Family allowances: 2,000 CFA francs a month for each of the Security Fund. first six children. The benefits are paid every 6 months. Prenatal allowance: 500 CFA francs a month for 9 months. Family Allowances The allowance is paid in three 3-month installments. Regulatory Framework Birth grant: A lump sum of 6,000 CFA francs for each of thefirst three births. First law: 1956. Some maternity and child health care and welfare services are Current law: 1973 (social security), with 2001 amendment. also provided. Type of program: Employment-related system. Administrative Organization Coverage Ministry of Public Function, Labor, and Employment provides Employed persons, including agricultural salaried workers, general supervision. domestic workers, casual or temporary workers, and certain Managed by a tripartite council and a director, the National pensioners and other social insurance benefit recipients. Social Security Fund administers the program. Exclusions: Self-employed persons, cooperative members, Employers may pay benefits directly to their employees. apprentices, and students. Special systems for civil servants and armed forces personnel. Source of Funds Insured person: None. Self-employed person: Not applicable. Employer: 6% of gross payroll. Employer contributions also finance maternity benefits under Sickness and Maternity, above. Contributions are paid monthly by employers with 20 or more employees or quarterly by employers with 1 to 19 employees. Government: None; contributes as an employer for public- sector employees who are not civil servants. Qualifying Conditions Family allowances: The child must be younger than age 16 (age 18 if an apprentice, age 21 if a student or disabled). The 166 ♦ SSPTW: Africa, 2005 Tunisia Early pension: From age 50 with at least 360 months of Tunisia contributions. Partial pension: For an insured person with between 60 and Exchange rate: US$1.00 equals 1.21 dinars. 119 months of contributions, the pension is proportionately reduced. If the insured has fewer than 60 months of contributions at Old Age, Disability, and Survivors retirement, the value of the insured’s share of contributions is refunded. Regulatory Framework Disability pension: The permanent loss of at least 2/3 of First law: 1960. earning capacity, with at least 60 months of contributions. Current laws: 1960 (nonagricultural workers), implemented in Employment must cease. 1974; 1981 (agricultural workers); 1985 (civil servants); 1989 A medical commission assesses the degree of disability (commercial agriculture); 1995 (self-employed); 2002 (low- annually, until the insured is age 55. income earners); and 2002 (artists and intellectuals). Survivor pension: The insured was a pensioner at the time of Type of program: Social insurance system. death or had at least 60 months of contributions. Eligible survivors are the widow(er) and children younger than Coverage age 16 (age 21 if a student, age 25 if a student without a scholarship, no limit if disabled or for an unmarried daughter Private-sector employees and certain categories of fishermen. without income). Voluntary coverage for Tunisian workers employed abroad Death grant: The insured had 50 days of employment during who are not covered by the host country or by a reciprocal the last two quarters or 80 days during the last four quarters agreement. before death. The employment condition is waved if the death Exclusions: Convicted persons working in prison workshops. was the result of an accident. Special systems for civil servants, members of parliament, Death allowance: Payable to the insured for the death of a armed forces personnel, agricultural workers, farmers, the self- spouse or dependent child. The insured must have had employed, fishermen, domestic workers, some categories of 50 days of employment during the last two quarters or 80 days low-income earners, artists, and intellectuals. during the last four quarters. Source of Funds Old-Age Benefits Insured person: 7.74% of gross earnings (excluding certain Old-age pension: The pension is equal to 40% of average in-kind payments or reimbursements). earnings in the last 10 years before retirement, plus 0.5% for The employee contributions are paid quarterly. every 3-month period of contributions beyond 120 months, up to a maximum of 80% of average earnings. Self-employed person: Not applicable (covered by a special system). The average earnings for benefit calculation purposes must not exceed six times the legal monthly minimum wage. Periods Employer: 7.76% of gross payroll (excluding certain in-kind of contributions with a declared salary of less than 2/3 of the payments or reimbursements). legal minimum wage are not taken into account in the benefit The employer contributions are paid quarterly. calculation. Government: None; the government subsidizes contributions The minimum pension is 2/3 of the legal monthly minimum to enhance economic activity in deprived areas and to wage. encourage the employment of young graduates, the The maximum pension is 80% of average earnings, up to a handicapped, and other categories of worker. ceiling of six times the legal monthly minimum wage. All of the above contributions finance all old-age, disability, The legal monthly minimum wage is 209.80 dinars. and survivors benefits except the death grant and death allowance, which are financed under Sickness and Maternity, Early pension: The old-age pension is reduced by 0.5% for below. each quarter that the pension is taken before age 60. Partial pension: The pension is paid in proportion to the Qualifying Conditions number of quarters of contributions. Age 60 with 120 months of contributions The minimum partial pension is 50% of the legal monthlyOld-age pension: (age 50 with at least 180 months of contributions if the insured minimum wage. is prematurely aged because of arduous work, involuntarily Benefit adjustment: Benefits are indexed to changes in the unemployed for 6 months, or the mother of three children). legal minimum wage. (The last adjustment was made in July Retirement from insured employment is necessary. 2004.) The legal minimum wage is adjusted by government SSPTW: Africa, 2005 ♦ 167 Tunisia decree, after consultation with labor unions and employers’ The minimum death grant must be no less than the legal annual representatives, according to changes in the cost of living. minimum wage (2,517.60 dinars). The maximum death grant is 18 months’ earnings. Permanent Disability Benefits Dependent children supplement: A sum equal to 10% of the Disability pension: The pension is equal to 50% of average death grant is paid for each dependent child. earnings in the last 10 years before the onset of disability, plus Death allowance: A lump sum equal to between 10 and 0.5% for every 3-month period of contributions 90 days of the insured’s sickness benefit is paid for the death beyond 180 months up to a maximum of 80% of average of a dependent spouse or child. The daily sickness benefit is earnings. equal to 2/3 of the insured’s average daily earnings, up to a The average earnings for benefit calculation purposes must ceiling of twice the daily minimum wage. not exceed six times the legal monthly minimum wage. Periods of contributions with a declared salary of less than 2/3 of the Administrative Organization legal minimum wage are not taken into account in the benefit calculation. Ministry of Social Affairs, Solidarity, and Tunisians Working Abroad provides general supervision. The minimum pension is 2/3 of the legal monthly minimum wage. National Social Security Fund (http://www.cnss.nat.tn) administers the program through regional offices. The maximum pension is 80% of average earnings, up to a ceiling of six times the legal monthly minimum wage. Sickness and Maternity The legal monthly minimum wage is 209.80 dinars. Constant-attendance supplement: Equal to 20% of the Regulatory Framework disability pension. First and current law: 1960. Benefit adjustment: Benefits are indexed to changes in the legal minimum wage. (The last adjustment was made in July Type of program: Social insurance system. 2004.) The legal minimum wage is adjusted by government decree, after consultation with labor unions and employers’ Coverage representatives, according to changes in the cost of living. Cash and medical benefits: Private-sector employees and certain categories of fishermen. Survivor Benefits Special systems for civil servants, members of parliament, Survivor pension: 75% of the deceased’s pension is paid to a armed forces personnel, agricultural workers, farmers, and widow(er) without a dependent child; 70%, with one fishermen. dependent child; or 50%, with two or more dependent children. Medical benefits only: The self-employed, pensioners, The pension ceases if the surviving spouse remarries before students, trainees, domestic workers, and some other age 55. categories of low-income earners. Orphan’s pension: 30% of the deceased’s pension for one Voluntary coverage for medical benefits for Tunisian workers orphan or 50% for two or more orphans; 30% for one full employed abroad who are not covered by the host country or orphan, 60% for two full orphans, 90% for three full orphans, or by a reciprocal agreement. 100% for four or more full orphans. The total survivor pension must not exceed 100% of the Source of Funds deceased’s pension. Insured person: 1.74% of gross earnings. Benefit adjustment: Benefits are indexed to changes in the legal minimum wage. (The last adjustment was made in July The employee contributions are paid quarterly. 2004.) The legal minimum wage is adjusted by government Self-employed person: Not applicable (covered by a special decree, after consultation with labor unions and employers’ system). representatives, according to changes in the cost of living. Employer: 4.51% of gross payroll. Death grant: A lump sum equal to 12 times the monthly The employer contributions are paid quarterly. average earnings in the last 3 or 5 years (whichever is higher), plus one times the monthly average earnings for each year of Government: None. contributions, up to a maximum of 18 month’s earnings. The All of the above contributions finance all sickness and death grant is reduced by 50% for the death of a pensioner; the maternity benefits except parental leave, which is financed calculated amount is reduced to 40%, 30%, 20%, or 10% if the under Family Allowances, below. The above contributions death occurs at age 70, age 75, age 80, or age 85, respectively. also finance the death grant and death allowance provided The average monthly salary must not be more than six times under Old Age, Disability, and Survivors, above. the legal monthly minimum wage. 168 ♦ SSPTW: Africa, 2005 Tunisia Qualifying Conditions Dependents’ Medical Benefits Cash sickness and medical benefits: Fifty days of insured Medical services are provided directly to insured patients by employment during the last two calendar quarters or 80 days government hospitals and health establishments under during the last four quarters. Long-term sickness (over contract with the National Social Security Fund and the Health 180 days) must be certified by the medical commission. Department. Ambulatory services are provided in clinics Medical benefits are provided to the insured and the insured’s operated by the fund. Some specialized services are provided spouse and dependent minor children (without limit if by private health establishments under conventions and disabled), dependent parents, and nonmarried daughters protocols. Benefits include medical care, hospitalization, without income. surgery, specialist care, laboratory services, kidney dialysis, appliances, spa treatment, and medicines. Cash maternity benefits: Eighty days of insured employment during the last four quarters. Cost sharing is based on the fee schedule set by law. The insured pays 20% of fees for general medical services in Parental leave: Paid within the first 7 days after childbirth. primary medical centers (25% if delivered in local hospitals); 30% for specialist services in regional or university hospitals; Sickness and Maternity Benefits 20% for X-rays, internal examination, and surgery, up to a limit of 30 dinars; a lump sum equal to one day’s hospital fees is Sickness benefit: The benefit is 2/3 of average daily paid by the insured for hospitalization. earnings, up to a ceiling of twice the legal minimum daily wage. The benefit is payable after a 5-day waiting period for a maximum of 180 days. Benefits are paid every 2 weeks. Administrative Organization Average daily earnings are based on the highest salary Ministry of Social Affairs, Solidarity, and Tunisians Working received by the insured during one quarter among the last four Abroad provides general supervision. quarters before the onset of sickness. National Social Security Fund (http://www.cnss.nat.tn) The legal daily minimum wage is 6.99 dinars. administers the program through regional offices. There is no waiting period or limit to duration for hospitalization, recognized long-term illnesses, or nonwork- Work Injury related accidents. The benefit is reduced by 50% from the first day of the fourth year of sickness. Regulatory Framework Maternity benefit: The benefit is 2/3 of average daily First law: 1921. earnings, up to a ceiling of twice the legal minimum daily wage. The benefit is payable for 30 days; may be extended for a Current law: 1994, with 1995 amendment. further 15 days. Benefits are paid monthly. Type of program: Social insurance system. Average daily earnings are based on the highest salary received by the insured during one quarter among the last four Coverage quarters before the claim to benefits. All salaried employees, including occasional, temporary, or Parental leave: One daily salary, calculated on the basis of domestic workers; members of cooperatives; fisherman; salaries received during the last quarter. apprentices; students; and convicted persons working in prison workshops. Workers’ Medical Benefits Voluntary coverage for the self-employed, artists, and Medical services are provided directly to insured patients by intellectuals. government hospitals and health establishments under contract with the National Social Security Fund and the Health Source of Funds Department. Ambulatory services are provided in clinics operated by the fund. Some specialized services are provided Insured person: None. by private health establishments under conventions and Self-employed person: Voluntary contributions only. protocols. Benefits include medical care, hospitalization, Employer: From 0.4% to 4.0% of gross payroll, depending on surgery, specialist care, laboratory services, kidney dialysis, the assessed degree of risk. (The contribution rate may be appliances, spa treatment, and medicines. reduced, depending on the reported accident rate.) Cost sharing is based on the fee schedule set by law. The The employer contributions are paid quarterly. insured pays 20% of fees for general medical services in primary medical centers (25% if delivered in local hospitals); Government: None; contributes as an employer. 30% for specialist services in regional or university hospitals; 20% for X-rays, internal examination, and surgery, up to a limit of 30 dinars; a lump sum equal to one day’s hospital fees is paid by the insured for hospitalization. SSPTW: Africa, 2005 ♦ 169 Tunisia Qualifying Conditions Survivor Benefits Work injury benefits: There is no minimum qualifying period. Survivor pension: 50% of the reference annual earnings used Accidents that occur while commuting to and from work are to calculate the deceased’s permanent disability pension or covered. old-age pension (if the deceased was a pensioner) is paid to a widow(er) without children; 40% if the surviving spouse has Temporary Disability Benefits one or more children. The pension ceases on remarriage. The benefit is 2/3 of the highest average daily earnings received by the insured during one quarter among the last four Orphan’s pension: 20% of the reference annual earnings used quarters before the one in which the disability began. The to calculate the deceased’s permanent disability pension or benefit is payable after a 3-day waiting period (only one day in old-age pension (if the deceased was a pensioner) is paid for case of hospitalization) until full recovery or certification of one orphan, 30% for two, or 40% for three or more orphans; permanent disability. 50% for one full orphan, 60% for two, 70% for three, or 80% for four or more full orphans. The average daily earnings for benefit calculation purposes must not be lower than the legal daily minimum wage. Orphans must be younger than age 16 (age 21 if a secondary or professional school student, age 25 if a university student, no limit if disabled or for an unmarried daughter without income). Permanent Disability Benefits Other eligible survivors (in the absence of the above): 20% Permanent disability pension: The monthly pension is equal of the reference annual earnings used to calculate the to the reference annual earnings multiplied by 0.5 times the deceased’s permanent disability pension or old-age pension (if assessed degree of disability for the portion of disability the deceased was a pensioner) is paid for each dependent between 15% and 50% and by 1.5 for the portion above 50%. parent, grandparent, and grandchild, up to a maximum of 50% The reference annual earnings are equal to four times the of the reference annual earnings. highest quarterly salary received by the insured during one The reference annual earnings are equal to four times the quarter among the last four quarters before the one in which highest quarterly salary received by the insured during one the disability began. The reference annual earnings must not quarter among the last four quarters before the one in which exceed six times the legal annual minimum wage. The legal the disability began. The reference annual earnings must not annual minimum wage is 2,517.60 dinars. exceed six times the legal annual minimum wage. The legal The minimum pension is equal to the legal minimum wage. annual minimum wage is 2,517.60 dinars. Constant-attendance supplement: 25% of the reference annual The total survivor pension must not exceed 80% of the earnings. deceased’s earnings or pension (if the deceased was a The permanent disability pension can be paid as a lump sum pensioner). after a 5-year period if the assessed degree of disability is 35% Benefit adjustment: Benefits are adjusted by decree according or less. On payment of the lump sum, entitlement to the to the growth in wages. pension ceases. The lump sum is calculated according to the Funeral grant: One month’s earnings are payable to the schedule set by law. deceased’s eligible survivors. The maximum grant is equal to For an assessed disability of between 5% and 15%, a lump sum the legal minimum wage for 200 hours of work (209.80 dinars). equal to 150% of the reference annual earnings multiplied by the assessed degree of disability is paid. Administrative Organization If the insured is entitled to the old-age pension or the nonwork Ministry of Social Affairs, Solidarity, and Tunisians Working disability pension and the work injury permanent disability Abroad provides general supervision. pension, the combined amount must not exceed the reference annual earnings used for the calculation of the highest of the National Social Security Fund (http://www.cnss.nat.tn) pensions. administers the program through regional offices. Benefit adjustment: Benefits are adjusted by decree according to the growth in wages. Unemployment Workers’ Medical Benefits Regulatory Framework All necessary medical and surgical care, hospitalization, First law: 1982. medicines, and appliances according to the schedule in law. Current law: 1996 (workers’ social protection), implemented in 1997, with 2002 amendment. Type of program: Social assistance system. 170 ♦ SSPTW: Africa, 2005 Tunisia Coverage Exclusions: The self-employed, domestic workers, and employees of farms employing less than 30 workers. All nonagricultural salaried employees. Special system for civil servants and armed forces personnel. Exclusions: The self-employed, agricultural workers, and domestic workers. Source of Funds Source of Funds Insured person: 0.89% of gross earnings. Insured person: None. The insured’s contributions are paid quarterly. Self-employed person: Not applicable. Self-employed person: Not applicable. Employer: None. Employer: 2.21% of gross payroll. Government: None. The employer contributions are paid quarterly. The cost of all benefits is financed by the National Social Government: None. Security Fund according to available reserves. All of the above contributions also finance parental leave provided under Sickness and Maternity, above. Qualifying Conditions Unemployment benefits: The insured must have paid Qualifying Conditions 12 quarters of contributions to the National Social Security Family allowances: The child must be younger than age 16 Fund and must be involuntarily unemployed, ineligible for an (age 18 if an apprentice, age 21 if a student or the insured’s old-age pension or a disability pension, and be registered at an daughter providing care for her brothers and sisters, no limit if employment office. disabled). Allowances are paid for a maximum of three children. Family supplements: Payable to families with a nonworking Unemployment Benefits spouse. The children must be eligible for family allowances. The benefit is equal to 1 month’s salary, up to the legal Nursery school fees (means-tested): Awarded to working monthly minimum wage. The benefit is payable for 6 months. mothers with monthly income of less than 2.5 times the legal The legal monthly minimum wage is 209.80 dinars. minimum wage, based on a working week of 48 hours. Thechild must be between 2 months and 36 months of age and be Unemployed persons can also receive family allowances and eligible to receive family allowances. supplements and have access to medical benefits for a year beginning from the first day after the end of the quarter in The legal monthly minimum wage for a working week of which employment ceased. 48 hours is 218.19 dinars. Administrative Organization Family Allowance Benefits Ministry of Social Affairs, Solidarity, and Tunisians Working Family allowances: 18% of the insured’s earnings is paid for Abroad provides general supervision. the first child, 16% for the second, and 14% for the third. Theallowances are paid quarterly. National Social Security Fund (http://www.cnss.nat.tn) administers the program through regional offices. The maximum earnings for benefit purposes are 122 dinars aquarter. Family supplements: 9.37 dinars a quarter for the first child, Family Allowances 18.75 dinars a quarter for two children, and 23.47 dinars a quarter for three children. Regulatory Framework Nursery school fees (means-tested): 15 dinars a month for First law: 1944. a period of 11 months for each eligible child. Current laws: 1960, 1980 (family supplement), and 1994 (nursery school fees). Administrative Organization Type of program: Employment-related system. Ministry of Social Affairs, Solidarity, and Tunisians Working Abroad provides general supervision. Coverage National Social Security Fund (http://www.cnss.nat.tn) Private-sector employees, including occasional and temporary administers the program through regional offices. workers; fishermen; members of agricultural cooperatives; employees of farms employing 30 or more workers; students younger than age 28; and trainees of any age. SSPTW: Africa, 2005 ♦ 171 Uganda Interest rate adjustment: The annual rate of interest is based Uganda on the rate of return on National Social Security Fundinvestments and is agreed to in consultation with the Minister Exchange rate: US$1.00 equals 1,738 shillings. of Finance, Planning, and Economic Development. Permanent Disability Benefits Old Age, Disability, and Survivors A lump sum equal to total employee and employer contributions, plus accrued interest. Regulatory Framework Interest rate adjustment: The annual rate of interest is based First law: 1967. on the rate of return on National Social Security Fund Current law: 1985 (social security fund). investments and is agreed to in consultation with the Minister Type of program: Provident fund system. of Finance, Planning, and Economic Development. Coverage Survivor Benefits Employees aged 16 to 54 of firms with five or more workers. A lump sum equal to total employee and employer contributions, plus accrued interest. If the benefit is paid to Exclusions: Temporary employees. the person who pays for the funeral, the cost of the funeral is Voluntary coverage is possible. reimbursed. Special system for public-sector employees. Interest rate adjustment: The annual rate of interest is based on the rate of return on National Social Security Fund Source of Funds investments and is agreed to in consultation with the Ministerof Finance, Planning, and Economic Development. Insured person: 5% of gross monthly earnings. There are no minimum and maximum earnings for contribution Administrative Organization purposes. Ministry of Finance, Planning, and Economic Development Self-employed person: Not applicable. (http://www.finance.go.ug) provides general supervision. Employer: 10% of monthly payroll. Bank of Uganda (http://www.bou.or.ug) provides substantive There are no minimum and maximum earnings for contribution supervision. purposes. National Social Security Fund (http://www.nssfug.org) Government: None. administers the program. National Social Security Fund is governed by a tripartite board Qualifying Conditions of directors consisting of the managing director, the chairman, and other members appointed by the Minister of Finance, Old-age benefit: Age 55; age 50 if retired from full-time Planning, and Economic Development. employment. Drawdown payments: The withdrawal of contributions and Work Injury interest is permitted if covered by an alternative social security scheme approved by the Minister of Finance, Planning, and Economic Development or if permanently leaving the country. Regulatory Framework Disability benefit: Payable for a permanent total disability for First law: 1946. any work or a permanent partial disability resulting in a serious Current law: 2000 (workers’ compensation). loss of earning capacity. Type of program: Employer-liability system, involving Survivor benefit: Payable for the death of the fund member compulsory insurance with a specified insurer. before retirement. Eligible survivors (in order of priority) are the surviving spouse and dependent children; parents and brothers or sisters of the deceased; grandparents or other Coverage relatives; and the person who paid for the funeral. Employed persons, including government employees. Exclusions: Active members of the armed forces. Old-Age Benefits A lump sum equal to total employee and employer contributions, plus accrued interest. 172 ♦ SSPTW: Africa, 2005 Uganda Source of Funds Insured person: None. Self-employed person: Not applicable. Employer: Total cost, normally met through insurance premiums. Government: None. Qualifying Conditions Work injury benefits: Must have a permanent incapacity or an incapacity lasting for at least 3 consecutive days that prevents the insured from earning full wages. Temporary Disability Benefits The benefit is payable periodically or as a lump sum. The benefit amount depends on the circumstances of the accident, the assessed degree of disability, the loss of earnings, and the probable duration of the disability. The benefit is payable for up to 96 months; may be extended, subject to a medical examination. Permanent Disability Benefits If totally disabled, a lump sum equal to 60 months’ earnings, up to a maximum. Constant-attendance supplement: Equal to 25% of the lump- sum benefit but no less than a predetermined minimum. Partial disability: A percentage of the full benefit according to the assessed degree of disability. Workers’ Medical Benefits Benefits include medical, surgical, and nursing care; hospitalization; and medicines. Survivor Benefits A lump sum equal to 60 months’ earnings, up to a variable maximum amount, minus 50% of the value of any disability benefits paid to the insured for the same accident before his or her death. The full benefit is payable to fully dependent survivors; in the absence of dependent survivors, the employer pays any expenses related to medical care provided to the deceased and the cost of the funeral. Administrative Organization Ministry of Gender, Labor, and Social Development enforces the law, approves settlements, and pays benefits from money deposited with it by employers. Employers must insure against liability with private insurance companies. SSPTW: Africa, 2005 ♦ 173 Zambia 60 contributions, including 12 in the 36 months before the Zambia onset of disability. Exchange rate: US$1.00 equals The disability is assessed by a medical board appointed by the 4,675 kwacha (K). Minister of Labor and Social Security. Disability settlement: Payable if the insured does not satisfy the qualifying conditions for the disability pension. Old Age, Disability, and Survivors Survivor pension: The deceased had at least 60 contributions Regulatory Framework or was receiving an old-age or disability pension at the time ofdeath. First law: 1965 (provident fund). Eligible survivors include the spouse and children younger Current law: 1996 (pension scheme), implemented in 2000. than age 18 (age 25 if a student, no limit if disabled). Type of program: Social insurance system. A surviving spouse caring for one or more of the deceased’s children is eligible for a pension until death or remarriage. If Coverage the surviving spouse is younger than age 45 and withoutchildren by the deceased, a limited pension is payable for Employed persons, including agricultural workers, domestic 2 years. servants in urban areas, apprentices, and all public-sector and Survivor settlement: Payable to survivors if the deceased local government employees who began service on or after did not satisfy the qualifying conditions for a pension. February 1, 2000. Funeral grant: Payable if the deceased had at least 12 months Exclusions: Workers younger than age 16, older than age 55, of contributions in the 36 months before death. or earning less than K15,000 a month; armed forces personnel. All benefits are payable abroad only if there is a reciprocal Voluntary coverage for the self-employed and some categories agreement. of informal-sector workers who were previously covered for at least 60 months. Old-Age Benefits Special system for public-sector and local government employees who began service before February 1, 2000. Old-age pension: The monthly pension is based on the insured’s average adjusted monthly earnings multiplied by the Source of Funds number of monthly contributions. The minimum monthly pension is 20% of monthly national Insured person: 5% of earnings; voluntary contributors, 10% average earnings. of earnings. The maximum monthly pension is equal to 40% of the insured’s The maximum monthly earnings for contribution purposes are average adjusted monthly earnings. four times national average monthly earnings. Early pension: A reduced pension is paid. The minimum Self-employed person: 10% of earnings. monthly early pension is 20% of national average monthly The maximum monthly earnings for contribution purposes are earnings. four times national average monthly earnings. Benefit adjustment: Pensions are adjusted annually according Employer: 5% of payroll. to the growth in wages. The maximum monthly earnings for contribution purposes are Old-age settlement: The total adjusted employee and four times national average monthly earnings. employer contributions plus accrued interest. Government: None; contributes as an employer. Permanent Disability Benefits Qualifying Conditions Disability pension: The monthly calculated pension or the Old-age pension: Age 55 with at least 180 contributions. minimum pension (whichever is greater), plus compensation for Retirement from regular employment is necessary. lost work-years. Early pension: From age 50 with at least 180 paid contributions Disability settlement: The total adjusted employee and and if the resulting reduced pension is at least equal to the employer contributions plus accrued interest. minimum pension. Retirement from regular employment is necessary. Survivor Benefits Old-age settlement: Payable if the insured does not satisfy Survivor pension: If the insured was employed at the time of the qualifying conditions for the old-age pension. death, the pension is equal to the monthly calculated pension Disability pension: Permanent incapacity for any work as the or the minimum pension (whichever is greater), plus result of a physical or mental disability and with at least compensation for lost work-years. If the insured was receiving 174 ♦ SSPTW: Africa, 2005 Zambia an old-age or disability pension, the pension is converted to a Work Injury survivor pension. When there is more than one eligible survivor, the pension is Regulatory Framework split according to the schedule in law. First laws: 1929 (employer liability) and 1963 (compulsory The minimum monthly pension is 20% of national average insurance). monthly earnings. Current law: 1994. Survivor settlement: The total adjusted employee and Type of program: Employer-liability system, involving employer contributions plus accrued interest. compulsory insurance with a public carrier. Funeral grant: Ten times the minimum pension is payable to the survivor. In the absence of a survivor, the grant is payable to the person who pays for the funeral. Coverage Employed persons, including casual workers, domestic Administrative Organization servants, apprentices, and public-sector employees not covered by the special system. Ministry of Labor and Social Security provides general Special system for public-sector employees. supervision. Managed by a tripartite board of trustees and a director general, the National Pension Scheme Authority (http:// Source of Funds www.napsa.co.zm) administers the program through two Insured person: None. regional offices and 22 district offices. Self-employed person: Not applicable. Employer: Total cost, met through contributions fixed Sickness and Maternity annually according to the assessed degree of risk. Regulatory Framework Government: None; contributes as an employer on behalf ofcovered employees. First law: 1973. The maximum annual earnings for contribution purposes are Current law: 1994. K3,000,000. Type of program: Medical benefits only. No statutory cash benefits are provided. Women who Qualifying Conditions qualified for maternity benefits under the repealed provident Work injury benefits: There is no minimum qualifying period. fund act can claim maternity benefits under the repealed act. Temporary Disability Benefits Workers’ Medical Benefits With an assessed degree of disability of 10% or less, the Medical care is available to all citizens in government benefit is equal to 50% of monthly insurable earnings. The hospitals, clinics, and rural health centers at low cost. Fee- benefit is payable for a maximum of 18 months; may be paying medical services have been introduced in selected extended to 24 months. Medical certification is necessary. medical institutions. The maximum monthly earnings for benefit calculation purposes are K250,000. Dependents’ Medical Benefits The minimum and maximum benefits vary according to the Medical care is available to all citizens in government assessed degree of disability. hospitals, clinics, and rural health centers at low cost. Fee- The degree of disability is assessed by government hospitals paying medical services have been introduced in selected or private clinics. Occupational diseases are assessed medical institutions. annually. Work injuries are assessed when the claim is made; reassessment is possible if the worker’s medical condition Administrative Organization changes. Ministry of Labor and Social Security provides general Benefit adjustment: Benefits are adjusted periodically supervision. according to changes in the cost of living. SSPTW: Africa, 2005 ♦ 175 Zambia Permanent Disability Benefits Administrative Organization Permanent disability pension: The pension is equal to 50% Ministry of Labor and Social Security provides general of monthly insurable earnings at the onset of disability times supervision. the assessed degree of disability. Managed by a board and a commissioner, the Worker’s The maximum monthly earnings for benefit calculation Compensation Fund administers contributions and benefits. purposes are K250,000. The minimum pension is paid for an assessed degree of permanent disability of 11%. The maximum pension is paid for a permanent total disability of 100%. Constant-attendance allowance: Payable according to the assessed degree of disability. Partial disability: A lump sum is paid if the total benefit payment is less than K31,000 or if the assessed degree of disability is 10% or less. The degree of disability is assessed by a government institution or private clinic. Occupational diseases are assessed annually. Work injuries are assessed at the start of the claim; reassessment is possible if the worker’s medical condition changes. Benefit adjustment: Periodic adjustment of pensions for changes in the cost of living. Workers’ Medical Benefits Medical benefits are determined by the Minister of Labor and Social Security through a statutory body. There is no maximum duration for benefits. Survivor Benefits Survivor pension: 80% of the deceased’s disability pension is paid to a widow or a disabled widower. The pension is paid monthly. The widow(er) pension ceases on remarriage. Remarriage settlement: A lump sum equal to 24 months’ pension. Orphan’s pension: 15% of the deceased’s disability pension is paid for the first orphan (30% for a full orphan) and 5% for each additional orphan (10% for each additional full orphan) younger than age 18. The monthly pension is payable for a maximum of eight orphans. Other eligible survivors (in the absence of the above): The amount varies according to the degree that the survivor was dependent on the deceased. Benefit adjustment: Benefits are adjusted periodically according to changes in the cost of living. Funeral grant: The cost of the burial or an amount prescribed by the Minister of Labor and Social Security. 176 ♦ SSPTW: Africa, 2005 Zimbabwe Disability grant: Payable if the insured has less than 1 year of Zimbabwe contributions. Exchange rate: US$1.00 equals Survivor benefit: The deceased was receiving or met the 6,200 Zimbabwean dollars (Z$). qualifying conditions for the old-age or disability pension at the time of death. Eligible survivors (in the order of priority) are the widow(er), Old Age, Disability, and Survivors children younger than age 18 (age 25 if a student, no limit if permanently disabled), parents, and other dependents. If there Regulatory Framework is no widow(er), dependent children are paid through the legal First law: 1993. guardian. Current laws: 1995, 1998, 2001, 2002, and 2003. Survivor grant: The insured met the qualifying conditions for the retirement grant or disability grant. Type of program: Social insurance system. Eligible survivors (in the order of priority) are the widow(er), Note: Under the 1998 Social Welfare Assistance Act, limited children younger than age 18 (age 25 if a student, no limit if public assistance is provided by the Department of Social permanently disabled), parents, and other dependents. If there Welfare to destitute persons incapable of work and to persons is no widow(er), dependent children are paid through the legal aged 65 or older or disabled. guardian. Funeral grant: The deceased must have contributed for at Coverage least 1 year. The grant is paid to the person who pays for the All employed persons between ages 16 and 65 who are citizens funeral. or residents of Zimbabwe. Note: Universal coverage is to be achieved in phases. The Old-Age Benefits first completed phase provided coverage to employees in all Old-age pension: The pension is equal to 4.5% of monthly sectors with the exception of domestic workers and civil insurable earnings multiplied by the number of years of servants. The second completed phase provided coverage to contributions up to a maximum of 30 years, plus an additional civil servants. The third phase will cover domestic workers, 1% of monthly insurable earnings multiplied by the number of and the fourth phase will cover self-employed workers and years of contributions beyond 30 years. informal-sector employees. Deferred pension: Calculated in the same way as the pension. Source of Funds Retirement grant: A lump sum equal to 1/12 of annualinsurable earnings immediately before retirement times the Insured person: 3% of earnings. number of contributory years (including credited periods) up The maximum monthly earnings for contribution purposes are to a maximum of 10 years. Z$750,000. Self-employed person: Not applicable. Permanent Disability Benefits Employer: 3% of payroll. Disability pension: The pension is equal to 3.4% of average The maximum monthly earnings for contribution purposes are insurable earnings multiplied by the number of years of Z$750,000. contributions up to 10 years, plus 4.5% of monthly insurable earnings multiplied by the number of years of contributions Government: None. from 10 years up to 30 years, plus an additional 3.4% of monthly insurable earnings multiplied by the number of years Qualifying Conditions of contributions beyond 30 years. Old-age pension: Age 60; age 55 for arduous employment, Disability grant: A lump sum equal to 1/12 of insurable with at least 10 years of contributions. earnings in the year immediately before the onset of disability times the number of years of contributions (including credited Deferred pension: A deferred pension is possible up to age 65. periods). Retirement grant: Payable if the insured does not satisfy the qualifying conditions for the pension but has more than 1 year Survivor Benefits but less than 10 years of contributions. Disability pension: The insured is assessed as disabled and Survivor pension: A lump sum equal to 40% of the permanently incapable of work by a medical doctor and has at deceased’s old-age pension or disability pension is paid for a least 1 year of contributions. The disability must not be work widow(er), 40% for children until age 18 (age 25 if a student), related. 12% for parents, and 8% for other eligible dependents. SSPTW: Africa, 2005 ♦ 177 Zimbabwe If there is more than one eligible widow, the pension is split Qualifying Conditions equally between them. Work injury benefits: There is no minimum qualifying period. Survivor grant: A lump sum equal to 40% of the deceased’s retirement grant or disability grant is paid for a widow(er), 40% for children until age 18 (age 25 if a student), 12% for parents, Temporary Disability Benefits and 8% for other eligible dependents. The benefit is equal to 100% of monthly earnings (up to a Funeral grant: A lump sum is paid for funeral expenses, up to ceiling) for the first 30 days; thereafter, monthly payments are a maximum. equal to 80% of monthly earnings up to and including Z$112,500, plus 60% of monthly earnings of the next Z$112,500, Administrative Organization plus 50% of the next Z$150,000, plus 40% of the nextZ$375,000. Ministry of Public Service, Labor, and Social Welfare provides The benefit is payable for a maximum of 18 months. general supervision. National Social Security Authority (http://www.nssa.org.zw) Permanent Disability Benefits administers the program. Permanent disability pension: A pension is paid if the assessed degree of disability is greater than 30%. Sickness and Maternity Constant-attendance allowance: If totally disabled, payable for Regulatory Framework the constant attendance of another person for life. Child supplement: The first child receives 12.5% of the No statutory cash benefits are provided. insured’s pension; 5% each for the second to the fifth child. The labor relations act requires employers to provide a The rate for each subsequent child is determined by the maternity benefit. The maternity benefit is 100% of wages for General Manager. 45 days before and 45 days after the expected date of Partial disability: If assessed as less than 30% disabled, a lump childbirth. sum is paid. A health care program provides free primary health care for Benefits are payable abroad. low-paid workers. Government and mission hospitals serve rural areas; government and private hospitals and doctors are available in Workers’ Medical Benefits urban areas. Medical costs, including those for hospitalization, appliances, transportation, and medicines. Work Injury Severely disabled persons are provided with rehabilitation services. Regulatory Framework Current laws: 1990 and 1998. Survivor Benefits Type of program: Employer-liability system. Survivor pension: 66.6% of the deceased’s pension is payable to a dependent widow(er). If there is more than one Coverage eligible widow, the pension is split between them. The pension ceases on remarriage and a lump sum is paid. All employed persons in the private sector. Remarriage settlement: A lump sum equal to 24 months’ Exclusions: Domestic workers. pension. Special system for civil servants. Child supplement: Payable until the child is aged 19 or is self- supporting, whichever is earlier. The first child receives 12.5% Source of Funds of the insured’s pension; 5% each for the second to the fifth child. The rate for each subsequent child is determined by the Insured person: None. General Manager. The child supplement does not cease if the Self-employed person: Not applicable. surviving spouse remarries. Employer: Total cost, met through the payment of insurance Dependent’s allowance: Payable to dependent parents, premiums. brothers, and sisters for the death of an unmarried worker. Government: None. Funeral grant: A lump sum for funeral expenses, up to a maximum. 178 ♦ SSPTW: Africa, 2005 Zimbabwe Administrative Organization Ministry of Public Service, Labor, and Social Welfare provides general supervision. National Social Security Authority (http://www.nssa.org.zw) administers the program. SSPTW: Africa, 2005 ♦ 179