The National Social Security and Welfare Corporation (NASSCORP) has proudly marked its 50th anniversary, celebrating five decades of remarkable transformation, unwavering resilience, and steadfast commitment to social protection in Liberia.
At a special ceremony commemorating this significant milestone, Director-General Dewitt vonBallmoos delivered a message brimming with gratitude and renewed purpose. He highlighted the institution’s extraordinary journey from its humble beginnings as a modest, subsidy-dependent entity to its current status as a self-sustaining social security powerhouse.
Founded in 1975 with crucial support from the United Nations and the International Labour Organization (ILO), NASSCORP was established with a vital mission: to provide a reliable social safety net for Liberian workers and their dependents. Since its inception, it has blossomed into a major national institution, expertly managing multimillion-dollar operations and assets that are critical to Liberia’s ongoing development.
Director-General vonBallmoos, speaking during the event, offered heartfelt thanks to Almighty God for guiding NASSCORP through Liberia’s complex social insurance landscape over the past five decades. “I am deeply honored to extend profound gratitude to His Excellency President Joseph Nyuma Boakai for the confidence reposed in me to continue serving under his results-driven administration,” vonBallmoos stated. He also extended appreciation to former Presidents Ellen Johnson Sirleaf and George Manneh Weah, under whose leadership the Corporation underwent major reforms, including the significant amendment of the NASSCORP Act in 2016.
The Director-General reflected on the organization’s impressive achievements over the years, particularly the launch of the Employment Injury Scheme in 1980 and the National Pension Scheme in 1988. These programs became pivotal pillars of Liberia’s social security architecture. “During the 1980s, while operating only one scheme, the Corporation managed to pay out US$3.4 million in benefits—rekindling hope among workers and their families,” he recalled.
Once renting office spaces across Monrovia, NASSCORP now proudly owns major national assets. These include its impressive headquarters, several regional hubs, the building that houses the Liberia Revenue Authority (LRA), and the Jahmale Diagnostic Center—a state-of-the-art medical facility that also serves as a crucial revenue-generating venture. “These developments are not by chance,” vonBallmoos affirmed. “They are the result of the relentless efforts, efficiency, and commitment of NASSCORP’s employees.
Under vonBallmoos’s leadership over the past 12 years, the Corporation has steadfastly prioritized transparency, accountability, and good governance. Human capital development has remained central to its operations, with staff benefiting from international training programs and workshops specifically aimed at enhancing service delivery.
The Director-General lauded the invaluable contributions of the Board of Directors, registered employers, and insured employees for their cooperation and compliance, which he stated have been instrumental in steering NASSCORP toward greater financial sustainability and service excellence.
As part of the Golden Jubilee celebrations, vonBallmoos announced a special one-time bonus of US$50.00 for each beneficiary and introduced a new benefit floor, ensuring that no retiree receives less than US$50.00 per month going forward. “This initiative is NASSCORP’s way of responding to the cost of living and contributing to poverty reduction,” he explained.
VonBallmoos also paid heartfelt tribute to the Corporation’s founding fathers, past leaders, and mentors who laid the crucial groundwork for today’s accomplishments. He made special mention of Mr. Francis M. Carbah, under whom he served as Deputy Director-General before assuming the top position.
Looking to the future, vonBallmoos reaffirmed NASSCORP’s unwavering commitment to expanding its reach and enhancing its services. He emphasized the ongoing development of the Jahmale Diagnostic Center into a fully operational healthcare facility as a key part of the Corporation’s diversification strategy.
“The past 50 years have not been without challenges,” vonBallmoos admitted, “but through hard work and dedication, we’ve made remarkable progress. Our retirees—citizens who committed their lives to nation-building—are now enjoying the dignity and care they deserve. Their welfare remains central to our mission.” He reiterated the Corporation’s long-term vision of becoming a beacon of social security excellence in West Africa, capable of adapting to new challenges and continuing to serve the Liberian people with distinction.
“NASSCORP’s journey reflects a collective commitment to resilience, innovation, and national development,” vonBallmoos concluded. “We look forward to continued growth and service as we build a more inclusive and prosperous Liberia.”
Since its inception in 1975, NASSCORP has been instrumental in providing social protection for thousands of Liberians through its pension and injury compensation programs. The Corporation also plays a critical role in national development through strategic investments in real estate, healthcare, and other sectors. With this 50-year milestone, NASSCORP not only celebrates its past achievements but also reaffirms its future mission to strengthen Liberia’s social safety net and ensure that no worker is left behind.