Social security is a human right. Everyone as a member of society has a right to social security as stated in the Universal Declaration of Human Rights, Article 22. Social protection programmes tackle multiple dimensions of poverty and deprivation (decent work, education, health care, food security, income security) and can therefore be a powerful tool in the battle against poverty and inequality.

Social protection can play a fundamental role in creating more inclusive and sustainable development pathways. In the absence of social protection, people, especially the most vulnerable, are subjected to increased risks of sinking below the poverty line or remaining trapped in poverty for generations. Social protection has therefore been accentuated as a development priority in the post- 2015 UN development agenda.

The Rwanda Social Security Board (RSSB) therefore takes the mandate to administer social security in the country through medical insurance, pension administration and occupational risks and health insurance. The Board, through affordable housing, also offers social security of shelter.  Benefits offered under the different units include; old age, invalidity, survivorship, work injuries and work related diseases and health insurance.

Who is subjected to Social Security?

Mandatory insurance

Those compulsorily subjected to Rwandan social security protection are all salaried workers regardless of their nationalities and active political representatives.