The National Social Security Fund (NSSF) ushers in a new era under the leadership of Patrick M. Ayota, who has been appointed as the new Managing Director by the Minister of Gender, Labour, and Social Development, Betty Amongi. Ayota's five-year term officially commenced on August 18, succeeding his previous role as Deputy Managing Director since December 2017 and Chief Finance Officer since 2011.
The appointment follows a recommendation from the NSSF Board of Directors and arrives at a time when the fund has navigated through turbulent waters. Ayota has been holding the position of acting managing director for the past eight months, a period marked by challenges including inquiries by Parliament's Committee on Commissions, Statutory Authorities and State Enterprises (COSASE), the Inspectorate of Government (IGG), and a presidential team.
Ayota's stewardship during these challenging times has been applauded by the NSSF board, as highlighted in a letter signed by the Chairman, Dr. Peter Kimbowa. The letter credits Ayota with ensuring the fund's stability amid the tumultuous circumstances.
His appointment is particularly significant considering the divided landscape within the fund's primary constituency – the workers' union movement. Recent events have led to the National Organisation of Trade Unions (NOTU) splitting into two factions, with one faction aligned with the Minister's office attempting to remove Wilson Owere as Chairman General. The attempted removal was later deemed illegal by the court.
Previous NSSF Managing Director, Richard Byarugaba, has also been a central figure in this period of transition. Byarugaba had petitioned the civil division of the High Court last week, contesting the decision to not renew his contract. Byarugaba's plea seeks an order that would compel Minister Amongi to fulfill her statutory duties and reinstate his reappointment as the MD of NSSF, a decision that had been recommended by the board and mandated by the law. Byarugaba's previous tenure spanned from 2010 to 2013 and from 2017 to 2022.
Amongi's decision not to reappoint Byarugaba stemmed from his age exceeding the upper limit of 60 years, according to the minister. Ayota was then named as acting MD. Dr. Peter Kimbowa, the Chairman of the NSSF board, expressed confidence in Ayota's ability to navigate the fund through a critical phase marked by legislative changes that compel the fund to expand social security coverage to all Ugandans.
Kimbowa concluded his statement with the assurance that NSSF remains on course to surpass its strategic objectives for 2015-2025 and affirmed the fund's stability amidst the changing tides. As Ayota steps into his new role, all eyes are on the direction he will steer the NSSF amidst the evolving landscape of social security in Uganda.
