<h1><br></h1><p>Addressing participants at a high-level labour and social protection forum, the Vice President underscored the need for African governments to modernise pension schemes to reflect the changing nature of work and extend adequate retirement protection to millions of workers, particularly those in the informal sector.</p><p>Professor Opoku-Agyemang noted that pension funds represent the lifelong savings and sacrifices of workers and must therefore be managed with the highest standards of transparency, accountability, and prudent investment. She reaffirmed the Ghana government's commitment to protecting pension assets and honouring its obligations to contributors under the country's pension framework.</p><p>She observed that a significant proportion of Africa's workforce remains outside formal pension systems, leaving many vulnerable to poverty in old age. According to her, expanding pension coverage to informal workers, women, and self-employed individuals should become a priority for governments across the continent.</p><p>The Vice President also advocated stronger regulatory oversight, improved governance of pension funds, and innovative approaches, including digital financial platforms, to make pension contributions more accessible and efficient.</p><p>Her remarks align with ongoing discussions among labour leaders, policymakers, and development partners on strengthening social protection systems to support sustainable economic growth while safeguarding workers' welfare.</p><p>The International Labour Organization (ILO) has similarly highlighted the importance of expanding social protection and reforming pension systems to improve income security and ensure decent retirement outcomes for workers across Africa.</p><p>Professor Opoku-Agyemang stressed that sustainable economic development cannot be achieved without protecting workers throughout their careers and into retirement. She urged governments, employers, labour unions, and pension regulators to work together to build resilient and inclusive pension systems capable of delivering long-term financial security.</p><p>Her call comes amid increasing attention across the continent on pension reforms as African nations seek to adapt retirement systems to changing labour markets, demographic shifts, and growing informal employment.</p><p>Photo credit: H. E. Prof. Jane Naana Opoku-Agyemang</p>