The government has reaffirmed that Zambia remains one of the world’s safest destinations for both investment and tourism, and that the country’s cyber laws are not designed to infringe on the privacy of individuals.
Minister of Home Affairs and Internal Security, Jack Mwiimbu, described as unfortunate any claims suggesting Zambia is unsafe or that the Cyber Security and Cyber Crimes Act would be used to violate the rights of investors or visitors.
In a statement released by Ministry spokesperson Mwala Kalaluka, Mr Mwiimbu clarified that, like in many other countries, security agencies in Zambia are mandated to intercept communications only when national security is at stake.
He referenced the Cyber Security and Cyber Crimes Act No. 22 of 2021, which outlines provisions for such interceptions, and stressed that the law has not been misused under the current United Party for National Development (UPND)-led New Dawn administration.
Mr Mwiimbu further emphasized that visitors, investors, and tourists have no reason to fear Zambia’s cyber laws as long as they have no criminal intent. “These laws are designed to safeguard the rights of all individuals living in or visiting Zambia,” Kalaluka stated.
Meanwhile, Minister of Technology and Science Felix Mutati encouraged citizens to familiarize themselves with the Cyber Security Act, especially sections 36 and 37, which focus on privacy protections.