Zimbabwe To Freeze Most Civil Service Recruitment In 2026

The government is set to stop recruiting staff in most of its departments next year to help control the state wage bill.

A circular from George Guvamatanga, Secretary for Finance and Economic Development, said the freeze will not affect the health, security, or education sectors.

The government has suggested similar hiring freezes before, including in last year’s budget, but the policy has not yet been put into practice. Said Guvamatanga:

“Treasury has noted with concern the size of the civil service in non-critical sectors, despite the recruitment freeze policy stance.

“For 2026, the recruitment freeze will apply to all sectors with the exception of health, education and the security sector to a limited extent.”

Zimbabwe’s government employs around 330,000 people, with their salaries making up roughly 56% of the country’s budget.

In June, the International Monetary Fund (IMF) highlighted public-sector pay as one of the main financial pressures facing the country.

The finance ministry plans to begin consultations on the 2026 budget later this month.

According to the circular, guidelines will be issued by 20 September, setting spending limits for government ministries, departments, and agencies.

More: Bloomberg

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