Zambia Unveils National Child Online Protection Strategy to Safeguard Children in the Digital Age
The new strategy builds on Zambia’s existing legal and policy frameworks, including the Child Code Act, Data Protection Act, Cybersecurity and Cybercrime Act, and the National Child Policy.
Zambia has launched its National Child Online Protection Strategy (2025–2029), marking a major national commitment to strengthening digital safety for children amid rising online threats. The strategy was unveiled by the Ministry of Technology and Science, in partnership with ZICTA , UNICEF , the Human Rights Commission, justice and security agencies, civil society, and cooperating partners.
Speaking at the launch, Eng. Dr. Brilliant Habeenzu, Permanent Secretary at the Ministry of Technology and Science, underscored the urgency of protecting young internet users, noting that 38% of Zambian internet users are under 18. While digital platforms offer opportunities for learning and innovation, they also expose children to risks such as cyberbullying, exploitation, harmful content, misinformation, and emerging threats including AI-generated deepfake abuse.
He reaffirmed Zambia’s goal to reduce online child abuse cases by at least 50% by 2029, emphasizing stronger enforcement, public awareness, and digital literacy.
UNICEF Calls the Strategy a Milestone
UNICEF Country Representative Dr. Saja praised Zambia’s leadership and reaffirmed UNICEF’s support. She noted that online child abuse is increasing globally, with 1 in 12 children experiencing online sexual exploitation. She urged countries to treat online abuse as a public health priority, strengthen partnerships, and fully implement the strategy’s $1.8 million plan. UNICEF is supporting Zambia through capacity building, digital literacy programs, and global initiatives addressing online exploitation.
A Strategy Backed by Strong Policy Framework
The new strategy builds on Zambia’s existing legal and policy frameworks, including the Child Code Act, Data Protection Act, Cybersecurity and Cybercrime Act, and the National Child Policy. It is reinforced by practical tools such as ZICTA’s online reporting portal for child sexual abuse, collaborations with the Internet Watch Foundation, and the Child Helpline Zambia.
Stakeholders Highlight Collective Responsibility
Mr. Derick Saboi, Director of Planning and Information at the Ministry, said the strategy was shaped by extensive stakeholder input—including law enforcement, traditional leaders, youth groups, civil society, and international partners. He stressed that implementation requires a whole-of-government and whole-of-society approach.
Representing ZICTA, Mr. Colin Strava emphasized that the internet must remain a place for learning and creativity, not fear. He noted that the strategy strengthens coordination, awareness, capacity building, and cross-sector collaboration.
In a powerful message, children’s representative Lukele Fai-Fai called for real implementation that reaches schools, homes, and communities. Children, she said, want their digital rights protected as technology evolves.
A National Commitment to Digital Safety
The new strategy focuses on:
- Strengthening national systems for child online protection
- Preventing online abuse through education and responsible behaviour
- Empowering children with safe digital skills and inclusive online environments
The launch signals Zambia’s determination to protect its young citizens as digital access expands. Stakeholders reiterated their commitment to translating the strategy into measurable outcomes that ensure every child can learn, connect, and thrive online without fear of harm.
