Minister of Foreign Affairs and International Cooperation, Mulambo Haimbe, has assured the public that the newly enacted Cyber Security Act is not designed to invade the privacy of individuals, as feared by some stakeholders.
In a statement issued, Haimbe clarified that the law does not permit mass or random surveillance, and any interception of communication or request for data must be authorized through a court-issued warrant.
“The government also takes the opportunity to address concerns regarding the cybercrimes and cybersecurity laws. The Cyber Security Act enacted by the Zambian government is grounded in our sovereign responsibility to ensure the safety, security, and digital integrity of all persons within our borders, including both citizens and foreign nationals,” Haimbe said.
He added that despite concerns raised by some stakeholders, the government’s position is that the law is not aimed at violating anyone’s privacy but at securing Zambia’s digital space in a balanced way that does not stifle innovation.
“The law does not authorize mass or random surveillance. Any interception or data request requires a court-issued warrant. Moreover, Section 37 expressly prohibits random monitoring, and Section 36 protects privileged communication,” the minister said.
He emphasized that the legislation includes due process and legal safeguards to prevent abuse and is in line with international digital rights frameworks.
The Cyber Security Act has attracted debate since its enactment, with civil society and digital rights advocates calling for clearer safeguards. However, the government maintains that the law strikes the necessary balance between security and individual rights in the digital era.