Lusaka: It has been almost three months since Zambia’s president, Hakainde Hichilema, signed the Cyber Security and Cyber Crimes Acts of 2025 into law. His supporters hailed the laws, calling them measures to combat digital crimes and improve national security. However, rights groups argue that the laws, particularly the Cyber Crimes Act, are undemocratic and suppress freedom of expression and speech.
According to Deutsche Welle, Mulambo Haimbe, Zambia’s Minister of Foreign Affairs and International Cooperation, emphasized that the legislation aims to protect citizens online rather than infringe on fundamental freedoms. He clarified misconceptions at a press briefing in Lusaka, stating that the government’s intention is not to intrude on personal communications or devices. Oliver Shalala Sepiso, a media consultant for the ruling United Party for National Development (UPND), echoed this sentiment, asserting that the laws focus on digital protection rather than surveillance.
Despite these assurances, the enactment of the laws on April 8 went largely unnoticed by the public until an alert from the United States embassy in Lusaka highlighted their intrusive nature. Richard Mulonga, CEO of Bloggers of Zambia, pointed out that while cyber legislation is necessary to tackle rampant cybercrimes like identity theft and online fraud, certain provisions could restrict free expression and digital rights.
Lungisani Zulu, President of the Law Association of Zambia, announced plans to challenge the new law in court, citing concerns over its potential to infringe on citizens’ rights and freedoms, hinder a free press, and undermine democracy. The laws replace the Cyber Security and Cyber Crimes Act of 2021, under which police arrested Mbewe Sibajene in 2024 for sharing satirical content deemed abusive and defamatory.
The Media Institute of Southern Africa (MISA) noted that the new law has negatively impacted journalists, fostering a climate of fear and self-censorship. Kennedy Mbulo, MISA Zambia’s vice chairperson, highlighted that investigative journalism has been affected, with journalists wary of recording interviews that could later be used as evidence.
The response among tech-savvy young Zambians is mixed. While some, like Kellys Mushota, observe a reduction in online harassment, others, like Joshua Seke, express concerns over privacy and freedom of expression. Seke worries about the potential interception of private conversations by authorities. Meanwhile, Lusaka resident Mary Ndau believes the laws will deter online abuse and promote responsible behavior.
As opposition leader, President Hichilema criticized cyber laws as tools for government surveillance, yet he has now enacted stricter cybersecurity regulations. This shift aligns with a broader trend in Africa, where restrictive cyber laws are increasingly being adopted, as reported by the West Africa Media Foundation. Countries such as Nigeria, Cameroon, Ivory Coast, Benin, and Niger have seen similar laws impacting freedom of expression and privacy.