Patrick M. Ayota has been appointed as the National Social Security Fund (NSSF), new Managing Director.
The announcement, made by Minister of Gender, Labour, and Social Development, Betty Amongi, marks a turning point for NSSF as it strives to overcome recent challenges.
Ayota steps into the role following the departure of Richard Byarugaba, who sought to contest a decision denying the renewal of his contract.
Byarugaba, who served two stints as Managing Director, has been at the forefront of the NSSF for several years. However, the recent decision not to extend his contract was based on exceeding the mandated retirement age of 60.
Amidst this transition, Ayota, who has been designated as the Acting Managing Director, brings a wealth of experience to the position.
Having served as Deputy Managing Director since 2017 and Chief Finance Officer since 2011, Ayota’s deep understanding of the organization’s financial and operational intricacies positions him well to steer the NSSF into a new era.
Ayota officially took the reins on August 18, embarking on a five-year tenure that promises significant reforms and renewed focus on stability.
With allegations of mismanagement casting shadows on the NSSF’s activities, a parliamentary select committee probed into the Fund’s affairs, yielding a comprehensive set of 27 recommendations. Among these, the dissolution of the fund’s board, headed by Dr. Peter Kimbowa, emerged as a key proposal.
Hailing from Tororo district, Patrick Ayota’s journey has been marked by a commitment to financial excellence.
A Certified Public Accountant and member of the Institute of Certified Public Accountants of Uganda, Ayota’s academic journey took him from local Ugandan schools to Liberty University in Virginia, where he obtained a Bachelor of Science degree.
He further honed his expertise at the University of South Carolina, earning a Master of Business Administration.
Ayota’s professional trajectory has been equally impressive. Following his academic pursuits, he gained valuable experience at Atlanta’s Reznick Group, now known as CohnReznick.
His return to Uganda in 2007 led him to Barclays Bank (now Absa Bank Uganda Limited) as the Head of Finance. In 2010, Ayota’s path intersected with NSSF Uganda, where he assumed the role of Chief Finance Officer.
His ascent through NSSF’s ranks was punctuated by his appointment as Deputy Managing Director in 2017, solidifying his influence within the organization.
Now, as he steps into the role of Managing Director, Ayota’s mission is clear: to steer the NSSF toward a future defined by accountability, transparency, and sustained growth.
As the NSSF navigates the challenges laid out by the parliamentary committee, Patrick Ayota’s leadership promises a new dawn for the organization. With his qualifications, experience, and determination, he stands poised to lead the NSSF into an era marked by stability, reform, and renewed trust from beneficiaries and stakeholders alike.
