Gov’t Seeks Public Input on Pension Reforms
The Government has called for broader stakeholder engagement in ongoing pension reform consultations, emphasising the need for citizens to have a meaningful role in shaping Zambia’s pension system.
Speaking during a stakeholders’ meeting in Ndola, Copperbelt Province, Ministry of Labour and Social Security Permanent Secretary Mr Zechariah Luhanga highlighted that the consultative meetings provide a crucial platform for refining draft legislation developed from earlier nationwide engagements.
Mr Luhanga noted that the draft Bills under review include the National Pension Scheme Bill 2025, the Public Service Pensions Fund Bill 2025, and the Local Authorities Superannuation Fund Bill 2025.
“The reforms are aimed at addressing long-standing challenges such as low pension coverage, inadequate benefits, and disparities among existing pension schemes,” he said.
He added that the Steering Committee on Pension Reforms will ensure affordability and long-term sustainability guide the harmonisation of pension conditions across the public service, promoting fairness and equity for all employees.
Mr Luhanga also urged stakeholders not to distance themselves from the process, stressing the importance of their input in identifying concerns and improving the proposed reforms.
Copperbelt Province Permanent Secretary Mr Lawrence Mwanza expressed optimism that the reforms would reduce anxiety among public service workers. He encouraged participants to actively engage and accurately represent community views during the consultations.
The Public Service Pensions Fund, National Pension Scheme Authority, and Local Authorities Superannuation Fund are jointly conducting the consultations nationwide to gather submissions on the 2025 draft Bills, which aim to strengthen the national pension system and guarantee dignified retirement for public service employees.
