GOVERNMENT REAFFIRMS COMMITMENT TO DIGITAL RIGHTS AND MEDIA DEVELOPMENT
The Ministry of Information and Media has reaffirmed Government’s commitment to building an inclusive, secure and rights-based digital environment as Zambia advances its digital transformation agenda.
Speaking during the launch of the Digital Rights Report 2026 and the Media Development Report 2026 by MISA Zambia, Director of Press and Media Development Thabo Kawana said the reports provide valuable insight into the country’s progress in digital governance and media development, while highlighting emerging opportunities and challenges.
Mr. Kawana said Government recognizes the important role of digital technologies in driving economic growth, democratic participation, education, healthcare, innovation and social development.
He emphasized that technological advancement must go hand in hand with the protection of human rights, including freedom of expression, privacy and access to information, while urging citizens to exercise responsibility online and help combat cybercrime, misinformation, online harassment and violations of privacy.
Meanwhile, Media Institute of Southern Africa Zambia (MISA Zambia) Chairperson Lorraine Mwanza Chisanga has called for greater commitment to safeguarding digital rights, media freedom and democratic values.
Ms. Chisanga said digital platforms have become key channels through which citizens access information, express their views and obtain public services, but cautioned that challenges such as misinformation, online safety concerns, high internet costs and inadequate rural digital infrastructure continue to hinder digital inclusion.
Ms. Chisanga said the two reports provide evidence-based analysis and practical recommendations for Government, regulators, media organisations, development partners and citizens to strengthen democratic governance in the digital age.
She urged stakeholders to use the findings to promote reforms that enhance election coverage, improve access to information and safeguard media freedom, emphasizing that rights enjoyed offline must also be protected online.
And Zambia National Broadcasting Corporation (ZNBC) Director General Reuben Rajokoto has welcomed the findings of the Media Development Report 2026, describing the assessment as a valuable operational feedback tool for improving service delivery and strengthening public broadcasting.
Mr. Rajokoto said ZNBC will build on its strengths in news and current affairs, local language broadcasting and public interest content, while addressing recommendations on editorial independence, inclusion and digital transformation.
He reaffirmed the corporation’s commitment to implementing the report’s recommendations to enhance transparency, professionalism and the quality of public service broadcasting in Zambia.