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NSSF launches national rollout of ‘Haba Haba’ after a successful pilot

The National Social Security Fund (NSSF) has officially launched the national rollout of its upgraded digital micro-pension platform, Haba Haba, following a successful two-month pilot phase that mobilised Ksh509 million in cumulative savings and enrolled 489,197 informal sector workers.

The platform was formally unveiled on October 9, 2026 during a national event attended by President Dr William Ruto.

Haba Haba enables workers with fluctuating daily incomes, such as gig workers, small traders, and artisans, to build savings flexibly by dialing *254# directly on a mobile phone without requiring a smartphone or physical branch visits. Contributions start from as little as Ksh25 daily.

To balance immediate financial emergencies with long-term security, every contribution is automatically apportioned, with 30 percent allocated to an accessible short-term wallet for daily challenges, and 70 percent secured for long-term pension goals.

Commenting on the platform’s broader national mission during the launch, NSSF Managing Trustee and CEO Mr David Koross stated: "With Haba Haba, we are building a financial bridge that meets everyday workers where they are, because social security should never be a privilege reserved for the few. This is how we are transforming how Kenya's vibrant informal economy plans for tomorrow."

Anchored on the constitutional mandate under Article 43 and the 2013 NSSF Act, the platform establishes a powerful institutional foundation for grassroots economic resilience and broad-based financial inclusion across the country.

Key attributes of Haba Haba and how to enrol

1. What it is

  • A social security savings product by NSSF, designed specifically for Kenya’s informal sector and the Youth (NYOTA beneficiaries).
  • It provides an easy and flexible way for informal workers to save for their future with contributions starting from Ksh25 per day.
  • This initiative is aimed at enhancing financial security for individuals who are not covered by traditional pension schemes.

2. Addressing a critical gap

  • The informal sector accounts for over 80 percent of Kenya’s workforce, yet most workers lack a structured savings plan.
  • Haba Haba ensures that small-scale entrepreneurs, market vendors, and daily wage earners can secure their future with ease.
  • It is a step towards financial inclusion, ensuring every Kenyan has access to social security benefits.

3. How to join and save

  • Registration is fast and easy. Dial USSD code *254# on any mobile phone.
  • Members can make contributions, track savings using their phones and withdraw 30 percent of their savings immediately.
  • No paperwork is required, making the process hassle-free and accessible to everyone.

4. How are my savings split?

  • 30 percent goes into Short-Term Savings (can be accessed immediately via *254#)
  • 70 percent goes into Long-Term Savings (50 percent available after 5 years, the rest preserved for future life goals).

5. Why choose Haba Haba?

  • Affordable: Start saving with as little as Ksh25 per day.
  • Flexible: No penalties for missed contributions.
  • Convenient: Manage everything from your mobile phone. No need to visit NSSF offices.
  • Secure: Contributions are safeguarded by NSSF’s trusted framework.

5. Who can benefit from Haba Haba?

Haba Haba is tailored for individuals in the informal sector, including:

  • Market vendors selling fresh produce and goods.
  • Boda Boda riders and digital taxi drivers.
  • Jua Kali artisans such as carpenters, welders, and mechanics.
  • Small business owners and traders in kiosks and retail shops.
  • Construction workers, including masons and plumbers.
  • Farmers and agribusiness traders supplying produce to markets.
  • Domestic workers, including housekeepers and gardeners.
  • Matatu and tuk-tuk operators in the transport sector.
  • Street vendors and hawkers selling various goods.
  • Casual labourers in the various industries.

6. Key Benefits of Using *254#

  • Register for NSSF anytime, anywhere.
  • Check your NSSF contributions with ease.
  • Receive updates and alerts on your savings status.
NSSF Haba Haba | Start Small, Secure Your Future!

Secure Your Future Today! Join Haba Habaand start saving as little as Ksh25 per day to build financial security.

For more information, go to https://www.nssf.or.ke/haba-haba-na-nssf


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