Zambia Railways Limited (ZRL) has paid out more than K38 million in outstanding terminal benefits to 104 former employees, marking the full settlement of obligations dating from 2023 to 2025.
According to a statement issued to the media by ZRL Managing Director, Cuthbert Malindi said the total payout of K38,170,952.29 covers retirement benefits for 77 retirees, gratuity payments for 22 employees whose contracts ended, and death benefits for 5 deceased employees.
Engineer Malindi said the development follows sustained efforts by ZRL management and the Board of Directors to prioritise employee welfare, with support from the Government of the Republic of Zambia through the Industrial Development Corporation (IDC).
He described the settlement as a significant milestone in the company’s commitment to honouring its financial and moral responsibilities to both current and former staff.
“We are delighted to announce that outstanding terminal benefits for our former employees have now been cleared. ZRL recognises the sacrifices made by its former employees, who laid the foundation upon which Zambia Railways continues to build,” Eng Malindi said.
He added that the move demonstrates the company’s resolve to restore trust and uphold accountability in employee management.
“Settling these obligations is not only a legal duty but a moral responsibility,” he emphasised.
Engineer Malindi further disclosed that going forward, management has put in place a plan to ensure that retirement packages are settled as they fall due, to prevent future backlogs of employee entitlements.
He also commended the former employees for their patience and understanding during the period leading up to the payments and assured stakeholders that mechanisms have been implemented to strengthen the company’s financial discipline.
ZRL has in recent years embarked on institutional reforms aimed at improving operational efficiency, enhancing employee welfare, and ensuring long-term sustainability of the company.
It’s all tongaland in Zambia. Malindi.