PHILIP CHISALU
Lusaka
TO HELP promote compliance, National Health Insurance Management Authority (NHIMA) has announced the activation of the 30-day lapse rule and mandatory use of the smartpay payment platform for all registered employers effective February 1, 2026.
The lapse rule provides that NHIMA members whose contributions are not remitted within 30 days of the due date will experience a break in coverage until all outstanding contributions are settled.
In a notice dated January 5, 2026, NHIMA head of public relations King Syacika said the measure is aimed at promoting compliance, ensuring sustainability of the national health insurance scheme and safeguarding uninterrupted access to services for members.
Mr Syacika highlighted that employer remittance through the smartpay platform is now mandatory.
He said smartpay is designed to improve efficiency, accuracy, and transparency in the submission of NHIMA returns and payments, while reducing processing delays and errors.
Mr Syacika encouraged employers to familiarise themselves with the smartpay system ahead of the effective date and align their internal processes accordingly.
He reaffirmed NHIMA’s commitment to strengthening the national health insurance scheme and advancing universal health coverage…https://enews.daily-mail.co.zm/welcome/home
