Conclusion of 2026 Salary and Conditions of Service Negotiations with Government
The Zambia Union of Nurses and Midwives Organisation (ZUNMO) wishes to inform its members and stakeholders that negotiations to review salaries and selected conditions of service between the Public Sector Unions, including ZUNMO, and the Government of the Republic of Zambia have officially been concluded.
The negotiations, which commenced on 4th November 2025, followed extensive engagements between the two parties and resulted in consensus on a number of key issues affecting public service employees.
Key Agreed Outcomes
1. Rural/Remote Hardship Allowance
Government and the Unions agreed on a framework to guide the administration of the Rural/Remote Hardship Allowance. This framework will apply pending further agreed actions.
2. Settling-In Allowance
It was agreed that:
a. Employees engaged effective 1st January 2026 will receive their Settling-In Allowance through the payroll.
b. Employees engaged before 1st January 2026 will continue to receive their Settling-In Allowance outside the payroll.
3. Redefinition of a Standard House
The parties agreed to redefine the definition of a Standard House in order to reflect modern living standards. This matter will undergo a holistic review under the Joint Technical Committee.
4. Meal Allowance Adjustment
The Meal Allowance has been increased from K150.00 to K175.00, representing an upward revision
5. Basic Salary Adjustment
Government and the unions agreed to revise the basic salary by K700.00 across the board for all unionised Public Service employees.
This adjustment is effective 1st January 2026.
As a result, members will receive their February 2026 salary inclusive of arrears for January 2026. In addition, all salary-related allowances will be revised upwards accordingly.
Other Conditions of Service
The parties further agreed that all existing conditions of service shall remain unchanged and will continue to apply as currently provided.
Administrative Matters
Members are informed that the following issues will continue to be handled administratively in consultation with the Ministry of Health:
a. Provision of uniforms and protective clothing;
b. Promotions and upgrades; and
c. Placement of In-Charges on the correct salary scales.
ZUNMO’s Commitment
ZUNMO remains firmly committed to safeguarding the welfare, professional dignity, and economic interests of nurses and midwives across the country. The Union continues to engage Government constructively to ensure that agreed resolutions are fully implemented.
Members are encouraged to remain united, informed, and engaged. Further and more detailed sensitisation on the 2026 Collective Agreement will be conducted in due course, during which additional information will be shared.
