UDC finally implements the 'newborn allowance'

Last October, the Umbrella for Democratic Change (UDC) government postponed the implementation of its election promises, revealing that it will be introduced from the 2026–2027 financial year.

In a press release, the Ministry of Local Government and Traditional Affairs spokesperson, Chandapiwa Baputaki, today stated that eligible low-income households with children under the age of one are now receiving a monthly payment of P300, plus arrears dating back to the programme’s start date of April 1, 2026. Baputaki said that approved beneficiaries have already begun collecting the funds in accordance with the approved implementation schedule.