NSSA Pension Hike Backdated to October as Minimum Rises to US$90

The Government has raised the minimum monthly National Social Security Authority (NSSA) retirement pension from US$70 to US$90 and the minimum workers’ compensation pension from US$100 to US$130, with both increases backdated to October 2026.

Public Service, Labour and Social Welfare Minister Edgar Moyo announced the increases at a media briefing in Harare on Tuesday, 10 November.

He said the revised benefits would be reflected in the November payroll, scheduled for 13 November 2026.

The retirement pension increase of 28.57 percent applies to the minimum benefit under the Pension and Other Benefits Scheme, which has about 262,000 beneficiaries. The 30 percent increase applies to the minimum pension under the Accident Prevention and Workers Compensation Scheme, which serves about 8,000 beneficiaries recovering from workplace injuries or living with occupational disabilities.

Moyo said the Government approved the increases after a statutory actuarial valuation found the fund to be financially sound.

He urged NSSA to manage and invest contributors’ funds prudently so it could meet its obligations to current and future beneficiaries.

“Government remains mindful, however, that benefit adequacy must be underpinned by the long-term sustainability of the social security system,” Moyo said.

New law strengthens workplace safety oversight

Moyo also announced the enactment of the Occupational Safety and Health Act No. 7 of 2026, which sets out duties for employers, workers, machinery manufacturers, importers and suppliers to help prevent workplace injuries, illnesses and deaths.

According to Moyo, the Act strengthens requirements for workplace registration, machinery safety and the reporting of occupational accidents and diseases.

It also provides for inspectors to investigate workplaces and issue improvement and prohibition notices, with penalties for non-compliance.

The minister said implementation would require cooperation among employers, workers, trade unions, business associations and regulators.