The Gabonese Pension and Family Benefits Fund (CPPF) recently organized the first National Retiree Day in Oyem, the capital of Woleu-Ntem province in northern Gabon. The event was attended by retirees and aimed to honor their years of service to the country. According to Hervé Patrick Okangabere, regional delegate of CPPF, this celebration is part of a broader transformation dynamic initiated by the country's highest authorities. This transformation has led to concrete improvements for retirees, including pension increases and payment of corresponding arrears.
The CPPF's transformation program, "Cap 2030: Building on Public Foresight," aims to create a more modern, accessible, secure, and person-centered public social protection system. This program focuses on three main areas: digitalization of processes, diversification of services, and improved governance. Okangabere emphasized that these actions aim to secure rights, improve service quality, and contribute to the well-being of retirees. The National Retiree Day was designed as a moment of exchange, sharing, transmission, relaxation, and conviviality.
The first edition of the National Retiree Day and Older Persons' Day had the theme "The well-being of retirees and older persons in the era of the Fifth Republic." Okangabere stressed that the retirement period can be the beginning of new challenges and allow older persons to continue participating actively in community life. He added that the place of retirees in society does not end with their retirement. The CPPF's goal is to build a social protection system that prioritizes the needs of retirees and older persons.
The National Retiree Day was established by Gabonese President Brice Clotaire Oligui Nguema in June. The CPPF's regional delegation in Woleu-Ntem province organized the event to mark this significant occasion. Okangabere highlighted the progress made in recent times, including the alignment and revaluation of pensions, as well as the payment of corresponding arrears. These advancements demonstrate the government's commitment to improving the lives of retirees.
The event in Oyem provided a platform for retirees to share their experiences and interact with CPPF officials. Okangabere reiterated the importance of recognizing the contributions of retirees to the country's development. He emphasized that their years of service have helped shape the nation and that their place in society remains significant even after retirement.
The CPPF's efforts to improve the lives of retirees are part of a broader strategy to enhance social protection in Gabon. The organization's transformation program aims to address the evolving needs of retirees and older persons. By investing in digitalization, service diversification, and improved governance, the CPPF seeks to provide more effective support to its beneficiaries.
As Gabon continues to implement its social protection reforms, the National Retiree Day is expected to become an annual event. The CPPF's commitment to honoring retirees and promoting their well-being is a significant step towards building a more inclusive and supportive society. The success of the first National Retiree Day in Oyem sets a positive precedent for future celebrations across the country.
Key points
- The Gabonese Pension and Family Benefits Fund (CPPF) celebrated the first National Retiree Day in Oyem, Woleu-Ntem province.