Zambia’s Cybersecurity Bill of 2024 (N.A.B. No. 29) and the Cyber Crimes Bill of 2024 (N.A.B. No. 30) have been revised.
The update was shared with the media by the Ministry of Technology and Science, represented by Permanent Secretary Eng Dr. Brilliant Habeeenzu, and the Ministry of Home Affairs’ Dickson Matembo.
President Hakainde Hichilema had deferred both bills to allow broader engagement with civil society, human rights defenders, and media stakeholders.
The government prioritized transparent discussions and inclusive dialogues until the legislation was finalized.
With significant feedback, 98% of the concerns raised were resolved to the satisfaction of the stakeholders.
Concerns Raised by Civil Society
The main criticism of the bills was that they were unconstitutional and violated human rights. Civil society organizations had pointed out the lack of transparency and clarity in some provisions, citing examples from other countries.
The government respectfully addressed these concerns and formed a Technical Committee.
Three meetings were held on February 6, 2025, March 10, 2025, and March 11, 2025, where solutions to the concerns were discussed and proposed.
Subsequently, a broader consultation process was launched with civil society groups, human rights organizations, and press freedom stakeholders, leading to an almost unanimous decision on the revised bills.
Amendments and Future Updates
Eight clauses of the bills were amended to streamline reporting timelines, improve oversight mechanisms for device interceptions, and ensure a balance between national security and individual freedoms.
The Ministry of Technology and Science has stated that periodic updates will be made to reflect these changes, with dialogues continuing.
The Zambian government has committed to extending consultations with stakeholders during the process of enacting the Statutory Instruments that will operationalize the two laws.