The Journalists Union of Malawi (JUMA) has urged all media houses operating in the country to fully comply with the Pensions Act of 2023, warning that continued non-compliance threatens the social security and welfare of media practitioners.
In a statement signed by its President, Emmanuel Chibwana, and Secretary General, Nathan Majawa, the union said it has noted with concern that some media houses are either failing to remit monthly pension deductions to designated Pension Administrators or have accumulated arrears that remain unsettled, a practice JUMA says is a direct violation of the law.
“The Pensions Act (2023) is explicit on the obligations of employers and clearly outlines the penalties and legal consequences for non-compliance,” the union said, adding that failure to remit pension contributions not only breaches statutory requirements but also undermines the long-term well-being of journalists.
In the spirit of unionism and constructive engagement, JUMA has granted a 90-day grace period for all non-compliant media houses to regularise their pension remittances and clear outstanding arrears. The grace period runs from 3 February 2026 to 2 May 2026, inclusive of weekends and public holidays.
However, the union says it prefers dialogue but will not hesitate to act if journalists’ rights continue to be ignored, stressing that pension contributions are not a favour but a legal obligation that employers must respect.
“Failure to comply within this stipulated period will compel the Union to pursue appropriate legal remedies, without further notice, to protect the rights and interests of its members.”
The union reaffirmed its commitment to engaging media owners and other stakeholders in good faith, while ensuring that labour laws governing the media sector are respected and enforced.
