Zambia advances toward ratification of Convention No. 102 with launch of Comparative Assessment Report

Lusaka, Zambia (ILO News) – Zambia has taken a significant step toward strengthening its social protection system in line with international standards with the official launch of a report assessing the national legislation and practice against the provisions of the Social Security (Minimum Standards) Convention, 1952 (No. 102).

The event, held in Lusaka on 12 November 2025, marks a key step in Zambia's journey toward the potential ratification of this landmark social security instrument. The report, prepared by the International Labour Organization (ILO), with financial support from the Government of Ireland, was presented to the Ministry of Labour and Social Security (MLSS) and representatives of employers, workers, international partners and civil society.

The high-level event brought together key stakeholders, including the Minister of Labour and Social Security, the Permanent Secretary of MLSS, the Deputy Head of Mission of the Embassy of Ireland, the ILO Country Director for Zambia and Malawi, as well as representatives from workers', employers' and civil society organisations.

The event underscored the Zambian government's commitment to a rights-based approach to social security, which aligns with its national development priorities and the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs).

The launch of the Social Security (Minimum Standards) Convention No. 102 gap analysis report is our resolve to fulfil our international obligations, improve social welfare and build economic resilience for every citizen.

Hon. Brenda Mwika Tambatamba, Minister of Labour and Social Security of the Republic of Zambia

The assessment was conducted through an inclusive and participatory process involving the MLSS, Ministry of Health, Ministry of Community Development and Social Services, social security institutions (NHIMA, NAPSA, WCFCB), workers' representatives, employers' representatives, as well as civil society, demonstrating a shared vision for enhancing social protection.

Supported by the ILO–Irish Aid Partnership Programme: Accelerating the Achievement of Universal Social Protection, Leaving No One Behind, the report evaluates the extent to which Zambia's current legal framework meets the minimum benchmarks set by Convention No. 102.

We also remain a strong advocate and supporter of ILO’s Global Ratification Campaign for Convention No. 102, and we greatly look forward to Zambia joining the 68 Member States that have already ratified this foundational instrument.

Mr Vincent Maher, Deputy Head of Mission, Embassy of Ireland

Convention No. 102 establishes minimum standards for the nine branches of social security: medical care, sickness, unemployment, old age, employment injury, family, maternity, invalidity, and survivors’ benefits. Currently, 68 countries, including 13 in Africa, have ratified this Convention.

The findings of this assessment confirm that Zambia is well-positioned and ready to ratify four branches of Convention No. 102, namely Medical Care (Part II), Old Age (Part V), Employment Injury (Part VI), and Invalidity (Part IX). This means that Zambia’s legislation and practice align with the requirements and principles established by this landmark Convention.

Wellington Chibebe, ILO Country Director for Zambia, Malawi and Mozambique.

The partners share the ambitious goal of ratifying this Convention, reaffirming their commitment to building a robust and sustainable social security system.