Summary notes:

• Overview
• Eligibility criteria to the maternity benefit
• Procedures required to apply maternity benefit

Overview

Maternity Benefit is a short-term benefit offered to a female member who attain the pregnancy or after delivery birth. In Zanzibar, the maternity benefit is provided by the Zanzibar Social Security Fund (ZSSF), and it is mandatory by law.

Section 15 (3) of the Zanzibar Social Security Act of 2017 provides “a female member shall be entitled to maternity benefits once in every three years”.

Eligibility criteria to the maternity benefit:

In order for the female member to be eligible to get maternity benefit she must be

• a registered member and contributor to the Fund.
• Must have contributed not less than 36 months out which 6 months contributed consecutively before pregnancy or delivery.

Procedures required to apply maternity benefit:

In order for a female member to get the maternity benefit, she is required to submit the following documents: –

• Employer’s letter confirming her pregnancy
• Employee’s personal letter requesting maternity benefit.
• Two recent coloured passport sized photographs of the member.
• ZSSF membership card
• Bank details: name of the bank, account name and account number of the applicant.
• Application form SSF13 which is available and filled in front of ZSSF Benefit’s Officer

Conclusion

The maternity benefit is a crucial benefit to female member. However, it only granted to a female member with 36 months contributions. A female member with less contribution will not benefit from the pension making it an undermining requirement.

Disclaimer: This article is authored by Jill Kato, an Associate from Rive & Co, a new and innovating law firm as a result of the partnership between ABC Attorneys, Stallion Attorneys and Sepia Attorneys, built on the foundation of trust, credibility, and novelty, offering expert legal solutions.  This Article is for informational purposes only and should not be construed as legal advice. It is recommended to consult with a qualified legal professional for advice specific to your situation.