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MISA Zambia has launched its Freedom of Expression (FOX) Report for the period January to June 2025, highlighting growing concerns over press freedom and digital rights despite an expanding media landscape.
The report presents stakeholder perceptions on freedom of expression, media freedom, access to information, and digital rights in Zambia.
It notes that the country now boasts 260 broadcasting stations, signalling continued media growth.
However, the report reveals that harassment of journalists and difficulties in accessing information have persisted, while public perceptions of media freedom and freedom of expression have declined.
It also finds that new cyber laws are widely viewed as limiting digital rights, even as awareness of these laws has risen sharply—from 22 percent in 2024 to 64 percent in 2025.
About 93 percent of respondents considered the laws beneficial for promoting responsible online behaviour.
Encouragingly, the report records a 17.7 percent increase in the use of blogging for information and education, reflecting growing citizen engagement in civic discourse and digital advocacy.
Speaking at the launch in Lusaka on Wednesday, Ministry of Information and Media Permanent Secretary, Thabo Kawana, reaffirmed the government’s commitment to uphold freedom of expression while cautioning against its misuse.
“The Access to Information Law Statutory Instrument has been signed, and the finalisation of implementation guidelines is underway. The full operationalisation of the ATI law will greatly enhance transparency, citizen participation, and accountability in governance,” Kawana said.
He added that government would use the report’s findings to inform policy reforms and strengthen democratic institutions, while ensuring journalists’ safety in the line of duty.
Meanwhile, MISA Zambia National Director, Austin Kayanda, reaffirmed the organisation’s commitment to working with all stakeholders—including government, civil society, and the media—to preserve a free and independent media environment.
“MISA Zambia remains committed to ensuring that the country’s media landscape remains free, independent, and conducive to promoting good governance and sustainable development,” Kayanda said.
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