Minister fires entire NSSA Board

Public Service, Labour and Social Welfare Minister Edgar Moyo has dismissed the entire board of directors of the National Social Security Authority (NSSA), led by prominent businessman and tourism mogul Emmanuel Fundira.

The sweeping move comes after a prolonged stand-off between the minister and the board over the appointment of a new NSSA General Manager, a post that had remained vacant for nearly three years since July 2022.

The dismissed board members include Astoc Leisure Group chief executive and safari hunting operator Fundira, as well as Merjury Chinyemba, Shepherd Mundondo, Tarusenga Chitemere, Grace Mathe, Timothy Nherudzo, Chipo Ndudzo, and Beatrice Ncube.

Sources within the Ministry of Public Service, Labour and Social Welfare confirmed the board's dismissal on Tuesday, citing internal power struggles and unresolved tensions surrounding the leadership appointment. The immediate cause of the fallout was the appointment of Charles Shava, Director for Occupational Safety and Health, as NSSA General Manager with effect from March 1.

According to sources, Fundira had tried to block Shava's appointment in favour of his own preferred candidate, reportedly to push through a controversial US$10 million software deal with Twenty Third Century Systems. The initial implementation of the deal had failed, and Fundira was reportedly keen to revive it through a pliant executive.

"This was about control and access," said a source close to the developments. "The Minister wanted to appoint a credible professional through proper channels, but Fundira resisted to protect vested interests."

The NSSA board plays a critical role in overseeing the authority's strategic direction and operations. Members are appointed by the Minister from lists submitted by employer and employee organisations, ensuring balanced representation. In cases where the organisations fail to nominate, the Minister is empowered to appoint suitable candidates directly. The Minister also appoints the board's chairperson and deputy.

NSSA has long been dogged by allegations of mismanagement and abuse of pension funds, and the latest board shake-up is likely to renew scrutiny on governance issues at the social security agency.

There was no immediate comment from Fundira or the dismissed board members. Minister Moyo is expected to announce an interim board in the coming days as the government seeks to restore order and transparency at NSSA.