Zambia Government Establishes Dedicated Team to Combat Cybercrime

The Zambian government has reaffirmed its commitment to combating cybercrime and ensuring a secure digital environment for its citizens. Ms. Kasali Musenge, Government Chief Technical Officer for the SMART Zambia Institute, outlined a multi-faceted approach to addressing digital threats, including mobile money fraud.

Ms. Musenge stated that the government has established a dedicated cybersecurity department with a highly capable and committed team. This team is responsible for implementing policies that dictate how government data is stored, where it’s stored, and how it is accessed to prevent breaches. The department also runs regular awareness campaigns for both public sector employees and the general public, aiming to educate them on the risks posed by digital platforms and how to protect themselves.

A major concern addressed by Ms. Musenge was the prevalence of mobile money fraud in the Zambian market. She stressed that technology, while offering great benefits, also comes with inherent risks. The government’s strategy to “quench” this threat involves providing citizens with the correct information and knowledge to navigate these situations safely. Ms. Musenge expressed pride in her cybersecurity team, describing them as “very dynamic, very dedicated, [and] very capacitated.”

The government’s focus on cybersecurity is a response to the escalating threats in the digital landscape. These efforts are part of a broader national strategy that includes the recently enacted Cyber Security Act and Cyber Crimes Act of 2025, which provide a legal framework for prosecuting cyber offenses and protecting critical national infrastructure. Additionally, initiatives like the nationwide Cyber Security and Digital Safety Campaign, a collaboration between SMART Zambia and the Private Public Dialogue Forum (PPDF), are aimed at enhancing public awareness and promoting safe digital practices across the country.