PCEA Staff Retirement Benefit Scheme annual general meeting
PCEA Staff Retirement Benefits Scheme (SRBS) held its annual general meeting (AGM) on Saturday, 6th September 2024.
The meeting that brought together more than 400 employees of PCEA Church was opened with a devotion by the Moderator of 24th General Assembly Rt. Rev. Thegu Mutahi. Reading from John 9:1-5, he observed that Jesus did the work of the Kingdom at all times. Work is good and should be enjoyed. We should consider the opportunity to work as God-given. Like Jesus, we should always aim at doing good always. The quality of our work is determined by its fruits. The Moderator reiterated that God is a worker and our role model.
The AGM observed that there is growth in the contributions since the church’s resolve to employ on permanent and pensionable terms. Noting that the current fund manager has not given impressive interest, the AGM ratified the move to seek another fund manager. Consequently all the current Board members were re-elected to allow conclusion on this transition.
In his comments, PCEA Secretary General, Rev. Dr. Robert Waihenya urged individuals to plan for retirement as early as possible. He highlighted a common misconception where people mistake liabilities for assets. He stressed the importance of prudent financial investments, reminding everyone that life continues beyond retirement.
Dr. Waihenya outlined five key principles of retirement planning:
1. Focus on the income you will retire with, not the age.
2. Your retirement foundation lies in your planning, not your employer.
3. Retire from your job, not from life.
4. Think about your retirement before your boss does.
5. Don’t retire from something, retire to something.
Rev. Dr. Waihenya also encouraged members to adopt stress management practices, learn from failures by reflecting on personal growth, and avoid dwelling on negativity.
The AGM that took place at Milele Hotel in Nairobi was also graced by the Deputy Secretary General, Rev. John Mbae. Also, in attendance were members, scheme trustees, and fund managers.
