By 
Linda Chilamo, a Board Member of the Women’s Lobby Group in Muchinga Province, has expressed satisfaction with the enactment of the Cyber Security Act, emphasizing its correction of various wrongdoings within the country’s cyberspace.
Chilamo, who is based in Chinsali, highlighted that the law had prompted increased caution among cyberspace users regarding their online postings.
In a chat with Zambia Monitor on Thursday, she said that individuals were now more mindful of the content they shared on personal platforms.
While Zambians deliberate on potential amendments to the legislation to safeguard freedom of expression and media freedom, Chilamo affirmed that citizens currently enjoyed the liberty to express themselves as they deemed fit.
She further emphasized the importance of verifying information before dissemination on social media platforms, despite existing freedoms.
Addressing the concept of media freedom, Chilamo underscored its role in facilitating communication and expression through various platforms, including print and electronic media.
Regarding challenges encountered by Zambian media, Chilamo highlighted reluctance among individuals to comment on sensitive issues, hindering the growth of media outlets.
She advocated for stringent verification processes prior to sharing content on social media, especially concerning government information.
“Before anything is posted on social media, it must be verified. Whether it is from the government or any other source, information needs verification before it is shared on various platforms,” she emphasised.
Responding to queries on the inclusivity of mainstream media in representing diverse voices, particularly marginalized communities, Chilamo asserted that media coverage encompassed a broad spectrum of voices and issues.
“Inclusiveness is there unlike in the past. People are able to express themselves through social media platforms such as WhatsApp, Facebook and Twitter (X) …each and every individual has a right to express themselves through those media platforms,” Chilamo said.
However, she acknowledged instances where individuals faced repercussions for expressing opinions on governance matters, raising concerns about the true extent of freedom of expression.
Chilamo expressed confidence in the current legal framework’s ability to safeguard the rights of media owners, journalists, and ordinary citizens, despite ongoing debates regarding its impact on digital rights.
She further emphasized that media freedom “is a fundamental principle that guarantees communication and expression through various mediums, including print and electronic media, especially published materials.”
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