GIPF streamlines digital customer service

Aurelia Afrikaner
The Government Institutions Pension Fund (GIPF) launched two innovative digital offerings last week to streamline the pension verification process. These efforts are intended to enhance service delivery and improve member experience.
The new tools form part of GIPF’s commitment to delivering service excellence and providing a member-centric experience.
"We are proud to introduce these innovative offerings in the form of digital products and services, as we strive to achieve service excellence through exceptional member experience and interaction," GIPF CEO Martin Inkumbi said.
The biometric verification process, already a key requirement for pensioners, child annuitants and spousal beneficiaries, ensures timely payments of monthly pension benefits. Inkumbi highlighted the challenges members face with the current verification system, particularly the burden of travelling long distances to GIPF offices. To address this, the fund has partnered with regional and local authority offices to make the handheld devices available at 13 constituency offices nationwide as part of a pilot phase.
"Members no longer need to travel to our offices," Inkumbi explained. "By simply visiting the nearest constituency office, they can verify proof of life."
Modern approach
In addition to the handheld device, GIPF launched a mobile verification application that is available exclusively on Android phones.
This self-service tool allows pensioners to verify proof of life from the comfort of their homes, eliminating the need for physical visits. "We implore our pensioners, child and spousal annuitants to embrace these technologies that are secure, safe and accessible," urged Inkumbi.
Ruben Ndjibu, manager of information systems applications at the fund, explained how easy it is to use the new mobile app.
"When you go onto your Play Store, you just need to type in GIPF Member Verification' and it will give you the app. The process is very straightforward: install the app and it will guide you through the status to ensure it is completed. Once installed, it is ready to use anytime, anywhere," Ndjibu said.
These innovative measures are expected to improve efficiency, reduce costs for members and ensure the long-term sustainability of the pension fund.