LUSAKA – Debate continues to intensify across Zambia following the recent amendment to the Cybersecurity and Cyber Crimes Act, with the United States Embassy in Lusaka issuing a security alert to American citizens living in or traveling to the country.
By Alfonso Kasongo
The embassy’s alert cautions that the new law permits the interception and surveillance of all electronic communications in Zambia, raising concerns about privacy and freedom of expression.
In response, the Zambian government, through the Ministry of Foreign Affairs and International Cooperation, rejected the embassy’s interpretation, stating that the law does not mandate proactive interception of communications or their transmission to government authorities.
Meanwhile, the ruling United Party for National Development (UPND) addressed the public during a press briefing on Sunday. The party’s media director, Mark Simuwe, clarified that elements of Zambia’s new cyber law are similar to provisions found in U.S. legislation.
“The US embassy has not condemned the amended law,” said Simuwe, a former party consultant. “It merely reminded Americans that interception provisions exist both in the U.S. and here in Zambia.”
He reassured citizens that there is “no secrecy” surrounding the law and urged the public not to be alarmed. He emphasized that the amendments aim to safeguard citizens’ digital rights and align Zambia’s cyber regulations with global best practices.
Simuwe added that Zambia is not alone in this approach, pointing to countries such as Nigeria, South Africa, Malawi, and Botswana that have implemented similar legislation in response to the evolving digital landscape.
However, opposition voices remain critical. Former Chief Whip in Parliament, Brian Mundubile, argued that the law undermines democratic principles. He called for its repeal, warning that the legislation could be used to suppress dissent and restrict civil liberties.
