LUSAKA, Zambia – President Hakainde Hichilema is expected to sign into law a package of transformative legislation aimed at strengthening Zambia’s education sector and improving pension benefits for workers and retirees.
According to a statement issued by State House Chief Communications Specialist Clayson Hamasaka, President Hichilema will assent to five key Bills at State House on June 4, 2026, in what government has described as a historic milestone for the country.
The Bills set to be signed into law include:
* The Education (Amendment) Bill, 2026
* The National Pension Scheme Bill, 2026
* The Public Service Pensions Bill, 2026
* The Pension Scheme Regulation (Amendment) Bill, 2026
* The Local Authorities Superannuation Bill, 2026
Mr. Hamasaka stated that the legislation will help consolidate the government’s flagship free education policy while delivering significant reforms to Zambia’s pension system.
He noted that since the introduction of free education in January 2022, approximately 2.6 million children have returned to school, increasing access to learning opportunities across the country.
According to Mr. Hamasaka, the Education (Amendment) Bill, 2026, will guarantee that future generations continue to benefit from free education, which government views as one of the most important investments in national development.
He added that education remains a key driver of economic growth and social mobility, providing young people with opportunities to build better futures.
On pension reforms, Mr. Hamasaka explained that the new laws will provide immediate benefits to thousands of workers and retirees.
He revealed that the minimum pension payment will increase from K1,861 to K2,327, benefiting more than 17,000 pensioners currently receiving the minimum pension.
Mr. Hamasaka further disclosed that approximately 30,000 retirees will be eligible to access advance lump-sum payments, with some beneficiaries expected to receive as much as K17,500.
Additionally, he said about 1.2 million members of the National Pension Scheme Authority will benefit from measures designed to improve the growth of their pension savings.
Mr. Hamasaka described the package of legislation as a defining moment for Zambia, saying the laws will protect gains already made in education and workers’ welfare while securing long-term benefits for future generations.
He emphasized that the reforms will have a direct impact on the lives of ordinary Zambians, from school-going children benefiting from free education to retirees receiving improved pension support.
The signing ceremony is expected to mark another important step in the government’s efforts to enhance social protection, expand access to education, and improve the welfare of citizens across the country.