Exploring Biometric Verification Of The Beneficiaries For Enhanced Social Security Delivery In Tanzania

In Tanzania, pensioners must undergo in-person verification every six months - a process that is often costly, inefficient, and burdensome, particularly for those in rural areas. Additionally, informal sector workers who make up a large share of the workforce face significant barriers to registering for social security benefits. This study explores how integrating biometric identification systems into the operations of Tanzania’s National Social Security Fund (NSSF) and Public Service Social Security Fund (PSSSF) can enhance the verification process and expand coverage to informal sector workers. Through stakeholder engagement, field visits, and qualitative and quantitative research, the project aims to assess technical and policy feasibility, identify opportunities to integrate with national ID systems, and lay the groundwork for a potential pilot and randomized evaluation. The findings will offer insights into the use of digital ID systems to improve the efficiency, accuracy, and inclusiveness of social protection delivery in Tanzania.