Zambia's Information and Communications Technology Regulatory Authority (ZICTA) is leaning into the recently enacted cyber crimes law and hardening its stance on what it says is an escalating circulation of obscene material on social media platforms.
The latest controversy revolves around a video featuring two women being intimate; one of whom is a leading athlete and police sergeant, while the other is an officer of Zambia’s Correctional Service.
"This alarming trend constitutes a misuse of information and communications technologies (ICTs) and poses a direct threat to Zambia's national values and principles," said Hanford Chaaba, manager: Corporate Communications at ZICTA.
The official reminded members of the public that "the use of a computer or computer system to publish or transmit electronic data that is obscene, vulgar, lewd, lascivious or indecent with intent to humiliate, harass or cause substantial emotional distress to another person, or to repeatedly send such data with similar intent to the detriment of another person's emotional well-being, self esteem or reputation is a criminal offence under the Cyber Crimes Act No. 4 of 2025."
Under the new law, a person found guilty is liable to a fine of up to K200 000 (US$8 589) or imprisonment to a term up to two years, or both.
"The authority remains committed to working with other government agencies, law enforcement agencies and all stakeholders to promote responsible use of ICTs, enforce the relevant legal provisions and safeguard citizens from online abuse," Chaaba stated.
Last week, police arrested a medal-winning sprinter and her partner after a video emerged online of the couple being intimate.
The duo has been jointly charged for Production of Obscene Matters or Things Contrary to Section 177(1)(a) of the Penal Code.
The sprinter has been charged with a second count of Circulation of Obscene Matters or Things Contrary to Section 177(1) (b) of the Penal Code.
Rae Hamoonga, police spokesperson, warned members of the public against the production, possession and circulation of obscene material.
"Those found wanting will be dealt with in accordance with the law," he said.
Critics and the opposition accuse the government of stifling the country's cyber space to entrench dictatorship, under President Hakainde Hichilema, formerly a longtime opposition leader.
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