Social Security Policy in Tanzania: A Review of Benefits, Challenges and Effectiveness

Abstract

Social security systems provide financial support during unemployment, illness, disability, and old age, evolving from informal, community-based support to structured, state-regulated schemes. A review was utilized in methodology covering publications from 2013 to 2023 aimed at identifying current social security schemes, challenges, and policy effectiveness and is guided by Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Review and Meta-Analyses (PRISMA). Different search engines and databases including JSTOR, Google Scholar, and the Social Science Research Network (SSRN). The search involves the use of key search strings such as social security, social policy, health insurance, social protection, policy formulation, and implementation. A total of 114 publications were obtained, and due to selection criteria, a total of 25 relevant articles remained and were included in the study. The findings reveal that Tanzania's social security system comprises various schemes like the National Social Security Fund (NSSF) and the Public Service Social Security Fund (PSSSF) which offer diverse benefits. However, challenges such as limited coverage, particularly in the informal sector, governance issues, and financial sustainability hinder their effectiveness. Despite these challenges, social security policies have positively impacted society in different ways such as poverty alleviation and healthcare access. Recommendations include expanding coverage, enhancing governance, increasing public awareness, leveraging technology, strengthening institutional capacity, ensuring financial sustainability, and fostering international partnerships. The study highlights the need for comprehensive reforms in Tanzania’s social security system to enhance coverage, governance, and sustainability, thereby ensuring greater social protection for all citizens particularly those in the informal sector, rural and remote areas.