Zambia’s Cyber Laws: Shielding Digital Lives, Not Silencing Voices
The introduction of Zambia’s Cyber Security and Cyber Crimes laws has instigated debate and widespread misinformation. Opponents have spread partial truths and outright lies, misinforming public understanding of what these laws truly represent. Whitney Mulobela, a member of the Law Association of Zambia (LAZ), notes that even LAZ has yet to fully clarify the legal and practical nuances, which has only deepened the confusion.
Mulobela, who previously served as a Board Member and Legal Advisor to Bloggers of Zambia (a digital rights advocacy group) has always advocated for online safety and digital freedom. However, he believes the current discourse is missing the bigger picture.
“The debates surrounding these laws are often oversimplified, ignoring the nuanced balance between protecting digital spaces and preserving freedoms”, he explains. “As technology advances and more services move online, safeguarding our digital lives is as critical as protecting our physical well-being.”
In 2024 alone, global cybercrime costs were estimated in the trillions - a figure that continues to rise. Zambia is not exempt. From mobile money agents to banks to everyday internet users, cyber threats such as phishing scams, data breaches, and ransomware attacks pose real and present dangers.
Mulobela advocates that this is precisely why comprehensive cybersecurity legislation is essential. These laws are not about surveillance or censorship - they are about protection. They create a framework to deter cybercriminals, secure sensitive data, and provide legal recourse for victims. Without them, our digital spaces are left vulnerable to exploitation.
Zambia is not acting in isolation. According to the United Nations Conference on Trade and Development (UNCTAD), over 150 countries (roughly 80% of the world) have introduced similar cybersecurity laws. The reasoning is clear: as societies and economies grow more digitally interconnected the need for robust digital protections becomes ever more urgent.