12 Feb 2020

Maun-based BPOPF regional manager, Mr Tibayani Mabalani, says wives married under a polygamy set-up are entitled to benefits from the fund. 

However, he explained that this could only happen when wives had been married in a traditional set-up or common law.

“That is why there is a provision under spouses (wives) where the member can write up to four people,” he added. 

 On other issues, Mr Mabalani appealed to government departments to submit pension claims on time so that the fund could facilitate payment of benefits on time. 

He explained that most pensioners claimed their funds after a long period of time, which did not portray the good image of the fund.   

He said the process on its own took long period because it had to go through tax clearance before payment to ensure that one was compliant with the legislation.

He advised employees that tax returns must be submitted every year to avoid delay in payments of benefits. 

Mr Mabalani also indicated that one of the challenges facing the fund was that of missing information or documents in death claims such as Omang for dependents, guardian or minors

He said the other challenge was incorrect member data such as date of birth, dates when fund was  joined, date joined service, transfer values and contribution gaps. 

In her welcome remarks, acting district commissioner, Ms Tuelo Gothaang, said BPOPF subscribed to an open door policy.

To this, she explained that BPOPF had been engaging with its various stakeholders in various fora over the years.

“Presentations are done in various government departments to active members throughout the year as the Fund’s regional offices have officers to educate members.

Stakeholders such as administration officers in government departments were also engaged through workshops so that they appreciate the Fund’s processes” said Ms Gothaang.

The purpose of the workshop was to share information on legal provisions and processes of the Fund and build rapport with members and heads of departments.

More importantly, the workshop was also aimed at appreciating operations of the Maun regional office that covers Chobe in terms of service offered, challenges encountered, share experiences and expectations and ultimately explore how best the fund could service the region. Ends