• Zambia drafts new bills on e-communications and postal services
• Reforms align laws with cybersecurity, e-commerce, and digital growth
• Part of 2023–2027 strategy to boost trust, investment, innovation

Zambia is updating its legal framework to keep pace with the growth of digital services. At its seventeenth meeting on Monday, the Cabinet approved two bills for introduction to Parliament concerning electronic communications and postal services.

The first bill amends the Electronic Communications and Transactions Act, which was enacted in 2021 to establish the legal foundation for e-commerce, digital payments, and other electronic services. According to Information and Media Minister Cornelius Mweetwa, the revision aims to correct inconsistencies with the Cybersecurity Act, scheduled for 2025, and to strengthen the regulation of public key infrastructures, which are essential for secure transactions.

"The Act aims to promote a secure and trustworthy online environment, protecting consumers and businesses alike. The amendment will enhance secure, efficient and reliable electronic transactions while stimulating economic growth," Mweetwa said. The minister noted, however, that the current law has posed challenges, particularly in the licensing process and its integration with critical infrastructure.

The second bill will replace the Postal Act, which has been in force since 2009 and is considered outdated given technological advancements and new challenges like cybercrime and counterfeiting. It seeks to adapt the legal framework to changes in the postal and courier markets, which have been heavily impacted by the rise of e-commerce.

These reforms are part of the National Digital Transformation Strategy (2023-2027), which aims to modernize the Zambian economy through digital technology and create a climate of trust for businesses and consumers.

Ultimately, these bills are expected to enhance the security and competitiveness of Zambia's digital environment, increase investor confidence, and accelerate the adoption of digital services. They will also support economic diversification by fostering innovation and the emergence of new digital business models.

Samira Njoya