By A Correspondent

The Zimbabwean government has introduced a new regulation that sets the retirement age for civil servants at 70, with options for early retirement and flexibility for those appointed before January 1, 2025.

According to a circular released by the Public Service Commission (PSC), civil servants appointed before January 1, 2025, have the option to retire at 70 and receive their full pension.

However, they can also choose to retire earlier, at 60, subject to approval by the Commission. Additionally, those who were in service prior to January 1, 2025, can retire at 65 by providing notice.

The new regulation, part of the Public Service (Amendment) Regulations 2024, aims to retain experienced workers in the public sector for longer.

However, some civil servants and citizens have expressed concerns about the potential impact on government efficiency.

The regulation also allows for the appointment of individuals over 50 on contract for a specified period.

Furthermore, earlier provisions related to pensionable service remain in force, including the age limit for appointment on pensionable conditions of service, which remains at 50.

The introduction of the new regulation has stirred mixed reactions, with some supporting the policy as a way to retain experienced personnel, while others question its effectiveness.