THE National Pension Scheme Authority (NAPSA) says it has implemented the increase in the minimum monthly pension from K1,861 to K2,327 for retired workers.
This is in accordance with the enactment of the National Pension Scheme Act No. 72 of 2026 and the issuance of Statutory Instrument No. 62 of 2026, which brought the reforms into effect.
In a statement, NAPSA Corporate Affairs Cephas Sinyangwe said NAPSA had paid K119.1 million in pension benefits this month to 34,390 beneficiaries.
“The National Pension Scheme Authority (NAPSA) has successfully implemented enhanced pension benefits following the enactment of the National Pension Scheme Act No. 72 of 2026 and the issuance of Statutory Instrument No. 62 of 2026, which brought the reforms into effect. The pension reforms, spearheaded by the Government of the Republic of Zambia under the leadership of President Hakainde Hichilema, underscore government’s commitment to improving the welfare, financial security, and dignity of pensioners across the country. A key highlight of the reforms is the increase in the minimum monthly pension from K1,861 to K2,327, representing a significant enhancement in social protection for thousands of retired workers,” he said.
“As a result of the implementation, 17,806 pensioners have benefited from the pension uplift. The total amount paid to these pensioners increased from K31.8 million in June 2026 to K39.6 million in July 2026, reflecting the revised pension rates. Overall, NAPSA has paid K119.1 million in pension benefits this month to 34,390 beneficiaries, underscoring the Authority’s continued commitment to delivering timely, reliable, and efficient pension payments”.
And NAPSA Director General Muyangwa Muyangwa said the pension reforms would strengthen Zambia’s pension system.
“Speaking on the development, NAPSA Director General Mr Muyangwa Muyangwa described the reforms as a major milestone in strengthening Zambia’s social security system and improving the livelihoods of pensioners. ‘These reforms demonstrate Government and the Board’s commitment to ensuring that pensioners enjoy greater financial security and dignity in retirement. We commend the Republican President, the Government, Parliament and all stakeholders who supported these progressive amendments to the National Pension Scheme Act. At NAPSA, we are proud to have successfully implemented the changes and delivered the enhanced benefits to eligible pensioners.’ In addition to increasing pension payments, the reforms have introduced several member-focused enhancements aimed at making the pension scheme more responsive and beneficial. These include the introduction of interest-free pension advances, enabling eligible pensioners to access a portion of their funeral grant without incurring interest charges,” Sinyangwe quoted Muyangwa as saying.
“The reforms also provide members with the opportunity to access 30 percent of their retirement benefits as a lump sum within 90 days prior to retirement. In addition, NAPSA has extended the payment of survivors’ pensions to eligible beneficiaries of members who pass away after making more than 180 contributions, while the income replacement rate has been increased from 40 percent to 45 percent. Further, the Authority has introduced new supplementary savings and wealth creation products, providing members with greater opportunities to build long-term financial security and enhance their retirement outcomes”.
Sinyangwe said the reforms would provide pensioners with improved retirement security.
“Collectively, these enhancements are expected to provide members and pensioners with greater financial flexibility, improved retirement security, and increased choice in planning for their future. The reforms also form part of government’s broader agenda to strengthen social protection, expand access to pension benefits, and improve the overall retirement experience for Zambian workers. NAPSA remains committed to delivering innovative, customer-centred services that improve the wellbeing of its members and pensioners while supporting Zambia’s broader social and economic development objectives,” stated Sinyangwe.
