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Bloggers of Zambia has emphasized the need for an inclusive, transparent, and rights-based internet governance system to ensure all Zambians have meaningful access to the internet, especially as the country continues implementing cyberspace laws.
The organisation has also proposed the creation of a Social Media Surveillance Agency to monitor online activities in line with Zambia’s legal frameworks.
The group’s Executive Director, Richard Mulonga, made the proposals during the commemoration of World Social Media Day in Lusaka on Monday, held under the theme: “Empowering Zambia through Digital Content Creation.”
Mulonga urged the government to ensure internet access in Zambia was affordable, resilient, reliable, safe, and secure for all citizens, including women and girls.
“As stakeholders in internet governance and digital rights, we must be committed to promoting media and digital literacy to help citizens navigate information safely and responsibly,” he said.
Mulonga further stressed the need for stakeholder support in shaping policies that govern social media use—policies that must be rooted in human rights, national security, and aligned with international best practices.
He also called for continued investment in dialogue platforms, training, and digital content creation spaces that promote integrity, inclusivity, transparency, and accountability online.
“As we celebrate Zambia’s progress in digital policy implementation, we must also confront the challenges that threaten the promise of a free and fair digital environment,” he said.
Mulonga cited rising levels of misinformation and disinformation—ranging from false public health claims and climate change denial to politically motivated propaganda—as serious threats to public trust, democracy, and social cohesion.
“Women, journalists, activists, and marginalised voices often face cyberbullying, hate speech, and targeted harassment. This digital violence silences critical voices and deepens existing inequalities,” Mulonga added.
Despite these challenges, he commended Zambia’s strides in technology policy development and implementation, noting that the country has made bold moves to ensure regulatory processes keep pace with rapid digital advancements.
He added that the ongoing formulation and execution of technology laws and policies will help Zambians better leverage the opportunities of global digital transformation.
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