President Hakainde Hichilema has signed five bills into law, including four pension reform bills that will increase the minimum pension, provide advance lump-sum payments to approximately 30,000 retirees, and enhance pension savings for 1.2 million NAPSA members.
The package also includes the fifth bill which is the Education Amendment Bill of 2026.
Speaking at the signing ceremony at State House today, President Hichilema emphasised that reforms are central to restructuring the economy, with the aim of promoting economic growth and improving the livelihoods of the people.
The Head of State noted that reforms, such as those in the energy sector, are essential for the country to function effectively for its citizens.
The President further said when reforms are implemented diligently and with purpose, such as the pensions and education bills they deliver results that are vital to the people’s well-being.
He further called for a holistic approach to nation-building, working together with a shared vision to achieve meaningful progress.
National Pension Scheme Authority (NAPSA) Director General, Muyungwa Muyungwa, represented by Acting Director General Asa Msusa, highlighted that the new laws will offer members progressive services, opening new opportunities that will contribute to job creation across the country.
Mr Msusa described the legislative milestone as a significant step that will positively transform the country’s trajectory.
Church Mother Bodies Representative, Vanny Munyombwe praised the enactment of the laws, stating that a nation’s character is reflected in its laws and also expressed delight in the government’s efforts.
“Governments are meant to represent the cries of the people. The signing of these five laws exemplifies this principle,” he said.
Dr Munyumbwe affirmed that the church and government are united in their belief that every child in Zambia matters, regardless of background.
Basic Education Teachers Union (BETUZ), Acting General Secretary, Christopher Simukonda, commended the President for his unwavering commitment to uplifting the lives of Zambians through the Free Education Bill.
Mr Simukonda pointed out that Zambia has taken a bold step by providing free education, ensuring no child is denied access to learning.
He emphasised that investing in free education is an investment in social security and reaffirmed teachers’ dedication to fostering national development.
Zambia Congress of Trade Unions (ZCTU), Acting Secretary General, Catherine Kantumoya highlighted that the five bills symbolise the ongoing transformation of the country.
She stated that ILO Convention 102, which upholds workers decency, is being supported through the legislative changes, commending the government and President Hichilema for their efforts.
Ms Kantumoya also called for widespread awareness and dissemination of the new laws across the country, emphasising that the reforms are a game changer for Zambia.
