THE NEW CYBER SECURITY ACT GUARENTEES SAFTY, SECURITY AND DIGITAL INTEGRITY OF ALL PERSONS - HON. HAIMBE

The Zambian Government is pleased to highlight the successful conclusion of the Zambia–European Union (EU) Partnership Dialogue for 2025, a significant event reaffirming the strength of Zambia’s diplomatic engagement with the European Union and its Member State.

Today, on the second day of the Dialogue, Mr. Hakainde Hichilema, President of the Republic of Zambia, hosted EU Ambassadors and Heads of Mission at State House, led by Her Excellency Ms. Rita Laranjinha, Managing Director for Sub-Saharan Africa at the European External Action Service. During the meeting, President Hichilema emphasized Zambia’s openness to business and its commitment to furthering cooperation with the EU, particularly in sectors such as mining, energy, and agriculture.

Ms. Laranjinha expressed optimism about deepening the EU-Zambia partnership and commended Zambia’s progress in various areas. The Dialogue was held as Zambia marks the 50th anniversary of diplomatic relations with the EU, reaffirming both parties' shared commitment to democracy, development, climate action, and mutual prosperity.

The Zambian Government reaffirms its open-door policy and encourages continued direct engagement with Zambia by members of the diplomatic community. Our longstanding international relations are founded on trust, transparency, and a shared sense of purpose, as demonstrated by the successful outcome of this recent EU Dialogue.

The Government also takes this opportunity to address concerns regarding the Cyber Security and Cyber Crimes 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.

Contrary to misgivings about the laws from among stakeholders, the Government wishes to assert the correct position. The new Cyber Security laws are not intended to invade any person’s privacy, be it Zambian citizen or visitors to our beautiful country. Rather, they are intended to secure Zambia’s digital landscape without stifling 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. These laws embed due process and legal safeguards to prevent abuse, aligning with international digital rights frameworks. Furthermore, the laws specifically provide for the protection of citizens’ rights, including mechanisms for redress in cases of abuse. The classification of "critical information" is contextualized within national security protocols, and any assessments or actions taken are carried out by authorized institutions, in line with due process.

The Government also addresses recent discussions regarding the procurement of maize from Tanzania. To date, Zambia has received over 170,000 metric tonnes of the 195,000 metric tons purchased, with only 25,000 metric tons remaining. The total payment of ZMW 1.68 billion was made at a negotiated price of USD 350 per metric ton, which is below the regional average of USD 400 per metric tonnes. It is important to clarify that Zambia did not buy the relief maize from Tanzania at a price higher than it should have.

In its ongoing fight against corruption, the Zambian Government has made significant strides, including the establishment of a Fast-Track Court to expedite corruption cases. Transparency International's 2024 Corruption Perceptions Index (CPI) reports that Zambia's score has improved to 39 out of 100, ranking 92nd globally. This marks a notable improvement, reflecting a positive trend. These achievements highlight Zambia’s commitment to promoting transparency, accountability, and a secure, vibrant economy.

(Original signed)
Hon. Mulambo Haimbe, S.C, M.P
MINISTER OF FOREIGN AFFAIRS AND INTERNATIONAL COOPERATION
LUSAKA
17th April, 2025