Lusaka, Zambia – April 16, 2025

In a significant step toward reforming pension administration and strengthening Zambia’s pension system, the Minister of Local Government and Rural Development, Gift Sialubalo, officially unveiled the newly appointed Board of Directors for the Local Authorities Superannuation Fund (LASF).

The announcement was made during a formal ceremony held at the Ministry’s headquarters in Lusaka. Mr. Sialubalo described the occasion as “a new lease of life in the operations of LASF,” emphasizing the pivotal role of sound governance in transforming public institutions.

“Good governance is the bedrock of any successful public institution. Having a well-constituted board is essential for LASF to fulfill its statutory mandate of providing pension coverage to its members,” he stated.

The Minister highlighted the challenges facing LASF, including outdated legal frameworks, K207.26 million in non-remitted pension contributions, and a backlog of K512.1 million in unpaid benefits to retirees.

The newly appointed Board is chaired by Martin Libinga, a seasoned pension expert and former Registrar of the Pensions and Insurance Authority. Other members include Emmanuel Mwinsa, who is the President of the Zambia United Local Authorities Workers Union (ZULAWU), Sombo Kawilila who is the Town Clerk for Luanshya Municipal Council, Desmond Banda who is the Assistant Director at the Ministry of Finance and National Planning Martin Sodala the Chief Rural Development Officer at the Ministry of Local Government and Rural Development Agness Taonga Msiska the Acting Senior Parliamentary Counsel at the Ministry of Justice and Muchimba Sikumba Dils a representingfor Civil Society Organizations.

Mr. Sialubalo urged the Board to prioritize transparency, bold reforms, and innovative thinking. “This day is not just a formal ceremony. It marks the beginning of a critical journey in revamping the operations of LASF and how it delivers on its obligations to retirees,” he said.

He reminded the Board members of the significant responsibility that comes with their roles, calling on them to act with integrity and in the best interest of all stakeholders. “Your duty is not to serve sectional interests but to safeguard the long-term viability of the Fund for all members. You are entrusted with the lives and livelihoods of countless retirees,” he added.

The Minister further challenged the Board to change the narrative around retirement, emphasizing that it should be a time of peace and dignity, not uncertainty and poverty.

In his Vote of Thanks, newly appointed Board Chairperson Mr. Martin Libinga expressed his gratitude for the appointment and commended the Minister’s guidance and leadership. He acknowledged the dedication of the LASF team and pledged to work closely with all stakeholders to build a robust, sustainable, and efficient pension system that guarantees financial security for retirees.

“We look forward to working closely with you to build a robust, sustainable, and efficient pension system that guarantees financial security for retirees,” he said.