Reported by: The Agency Media.
Date: 24th March, 2015.
Lusaka, Zambia.
In a significant display of inclusive governance and legislative responsiveness, the Government of Zambia has completed extensive consultations and revisions to the proposed Cyber Security Bill, 2024 (N.A.B. 29/2024) and Cyber Crimes Bill, 2024 (N.A.B. 30/2024).
These amendments follow President Hakainde Hichilema’s directive to defer both Bills to allow for broader engagement with civil society, human rights organizations, media stakeholders, and the public.
Speaking during a joint media briefing, Permanent Secretary for the Ministry of Technology and Science, Eng. Dr. Brilliant Habeenzu, and his counterpart from the Ministry of Home Affairs and Internal Security, Mr. Dickson Matembo, outlined the collaborative process that has brought the two Bills to near-universal acceptance among stakeholders.
The journey toward refining these Bills began after concerns were raised by civil society organizations regarding potential constitutional conflicts and infringements on human rights. Many stakeholders pointed to ambiguities in key provisions and called for greater clarity and safeguards.
In response, the Government constituted a dedicated Technical Committee, composed of representatives from both the public sector and civil society. This committee convened in three critical sessions — on February 26, March 10, and March 11, 2025 — to methodically review each area of concern.
Dr. Habeenzu confirmed that this rigorous dialogue process has led to the resolution of 98% of the issues raised. “The amendments we have made reflect the collective wisdom of all involved, ensuring that we protect our nation’s cybersecurity infrastructure without compromising the fundamental rights and freedoms of Zambians,” he stated.
The refined Bills now include eight pivotal changes, focusing on:
Clearer timelines and procedures for reporting cyber offenses.
Enhanced oversight for the interception of devices and communication to prevent abuse.
Balanced penalties that safeguard national security without infringing on privacy and civil liberties.
Additionally, clauses have been refined to ensure legal coherence and alignment with Zambia’s constitutional framework and international best practices in cyber governance.
Civil society representatives and key stakeholder groups have now formally endorsed the revised Bills, which are set for resubmission to Parliament. This endorsement marks a crucial milestone, with both government and civil society united in their commitment to protect digital rights while strengthening Zambia’s cyber resilience.
Once passed, the Ministries of Technology and Science and Home Affairs will roll out a nationwide public education campaign to inform citizens of their rights and responsibilities under the new laws. Dr. Habeenzu emphasized that “legislation is a living tool,” adding that ongoing dialogue will continue to guide updates in line with technological advancements and evolving cyber threats.
Ongoing Commitment to Transparency
The Government has further announced that it will extend consultations during the drafting of Statutory Instruments (SIs) to operationalize the Bills, ensuring stakeholders remain part of the process at every stage.
Dr. Habeenzu concluded by thanking civil society, human rights defenders, media professionals, and all stakeholders for their collaborative spirit and commitment. “These Bills are more than legal instruments; they are a reflection of Zambia’s values — inclusiveness, transparency, and respect for human dignity in the digital age.”
As Zambia strengthens its digital frameworks, the New Dawn Government under President Hakainde Hichilema’s leadership has reaffirmed its dedication to fostering open dialogue, responsive legislation, and forward-looking digital policies that serve the collective aspirations of the Zambian people.
The Agency.