Government to Increase Public Service Basic Salaries by K700.

Government to Increase Public Service Basic Salaries by K700.

The Government of the Republic of Zambia has announced an across-the-board increase of K700 in monthly basic salaries for public service employees, in a move aimed at improving remuneration and cushioning workers against rising living costs.

The decision was confirmed in a statement issued by the Ministry of Finance and National Planning. The salary adjustment will take effect from 1 March 2026 and will apply to all eligible public service employees, including teachers, health workers, administrative officers and other civil servants.

Government officials said the increment forms part of ongoing efforts to harmonise public service pay structures in line with the Public Sector Pay Policy, while ensuring that wages remain fair and competitive in the current economic environment. Employees will continue to receive other benefits and allowances as provided for under existing civil service regulations.

Speaking at a press briefing in Lusaka, the Minister of Finance said the salary increase reflects careful fiscal planning and the Government’s commitment to improving the welfare of public service workers, noting their critical role in delivering essential services across the country. The Government further pledged to continue reviewing salaries and allowances in future budget cycles to sustain morale and productivity in the public sector.

Labour unions representing public service workers have welcomed the announcement, describing it as a positive response to long-standing calls for better remuneration, particularly in the face of inflationary pressures and economic challenges.

The K700 increment is expected to significantly boost take-home pay for lower and middle-income public servants, helping to ease household financial pressures. Despite prevailing fiscal constraints, Government officials say the move underscores the importance of investing in the public workforce to maintain effective service delivery.

Further details regarding implementation procedures and any related adjustments will be communicated to ministries, provinces and public service institutions in the coming weeks.