In a bid to tackle the rising number of unclaimed pensions and promote retirement planning, the Mining Industry Pension Fund (MIPF) has launched a dedicated radio programme on Ya FM. The new show, airing every Wednesday at 7:30 AM, seeks to educate miners, ex-miners, and the broader public on the importance of securing their financial future through pensions and understanding their rights and entitlements.
MIPF Pensions Manager Thulani Ndlovu emphasized the urgent need to improve communication with both current and former mine workers, especially those employed in remote areas who may not be fully aware of the services offered by MIPF.
“We have a huge problem of people who have left employment but have not claimed their benefits,” Ndlovu said. “Many workers, especially those hired from surrounding communities, do not even know what MIPF is or how to claim their benefits once their contracts end.”
The new radio programme, produced in collaboration with Ya FM—the leading radio station in the Great Dyke region—is designed to bridge this information gap. Through weekly segments, MIPF officials and experts will unpack complex pension issues, share real-life case studies, and answer listener questions. The show will also feature testimonies from retired workers who have benefited from the fund, offering relatable insights into the importance of pension planning.
“It’s not just about the present—pensions are for life after work.”
Ndlovu used the opportunity to underscore the significance of financial planning for life after employment, noting that while contributions to pension schemes may be mandated by law, the ultimate beneficiaries are the workers and their families. “Planning for retirement is critical. Pension contributions ensure that when a person is no longer able to work, they can still have an income and take care of their loved ones,” he explained.
From exclusive mining fund to an inclusive retirement solution
The Mining Industry Pension Fund, established in 1952, was initially exclusive to employees working for large mining organizations. However, MIPF has since evolved, opening its doors to individuals across a variety of sectors, including small-scale miners, artisanal miners, and workers from other industries seeking to secure their retirement income. This inclusive approach reflects a broader effort to adapt to the changing nature of employment in Zimbabwe, particularly within the extractive sector.
“MIPF is no longer just for those in big mining companies,” Ndlovu noted. “Anyone who wants to invest in their future and ensure a steady income during retirement is welcome to join the Fund.”
A legacy of service, a future of expansion
The Fund was established through an Industrial Agreement between the Chamber of Mines of Zimbabwe (COMZ) and trade unions including the Associated Mine Workers Union of Zimbabwe (AMWUZ), the Mine Officials, and the Salaried Staff Association. This agreement incorporated the Fund’s rules, which conform to the Pension and Provident Funds Act and Regulations, ensuring transparency and accountability in the Fund’s administration.
These rules were first enshrined in Statutory Instrument 771 of 1982, and later revised under Statutory Instrument 14 of 2016. The current regulations are under review to align with new developments in Zimbabwe’s financial and regulatory environment.
As of March 31, 2024, MIPF had a robust membership base of 26,411 active members, 39,378 deferred members (those no longer contributing but not yet claiming), 7,040 preserved members (with locked-in benefits), and 12,156 pensioners receiving monthly payouts. The Fund works with 146 subscribing employers across Zimbabwe, reflecting its wide reach within the mining sector.
Fighting the challenge of unclaimed pensions
Despite this solid foundation, the Fund is facing a concerning trend: thousands of former workers are leaving their jobs without claiming their entitled benefits. According to Ndlovu, this issue stems largely from inadequate communication and a general lack of awareness, especially in rural areas.
“Some of these individuals don’t even know they are eligible to receive money from the Fund after leaving employment. As a result, millions of dollars may remain unclaimed, while the beneficiaries struggle financially,” Ndlovu said.
The radio show: a game-changer in pension education
The radio programme on Ya FM is part of a broader outreach strategy aimed at reversing this trend. With a significant listenership in key mining communities such as Zvishavane, Shurugwi, Gwanda, and Kwekwe, Ya FM provides the perfect platform to connect with both current and former mine workers in their native languages and accessible formats.
Looking ahead: Towards a financially secure mining workforce
As Zimbabwe’s mining industry continues to grow—driven by gold, platinum, lithium, and other mineral discoveries—there is an increasing need to ensure that the workforce is not only compensated for their labour but also protected in their old age.
Through this new platform, MIPF hopes to cultivate a culture of retirement preparedness, reduce the backlog of unclaimed pensions, and empower miners to take control of their financial futures.
