Zambia is taking significant steps to bolster its cybersecurity infrastructure by focusing on advanced training, international collaboration, and the application of emerging technologies like Artificial Intelligence (AI). At a recent workshop in Lusaka, Technology and Science Minister Felix Mutati addressed the increasing threat of cybercrime, emphasizing the government’s commitment to equipping law enforcement and prosecutors with critical cybersecurity skills. These include training on digital forensics, electronic evidence handling, and utilizing AI-powered tools for threat detection and predictive analysis. With cybercrime incidents rising, the government sees these efforts as essential for protecting both citizens and businesses from the growing digital risks.
The government has been actively engaging with global partners, including the International Telecommunication Union (ITU), to enhance cybersecurity capacity. This collaboration is particularly crucial given the alarming statistics—over 100,000 cybercrime incidents were recorded in Zambia in 2022, most of which involved financial crimes linked to social media platforms. Minister Mutati stressed that these figures necessitate a robust, coordinated response to combat cyber threats and ensure the safety of Zambia’s digital economy.
As part of the government’s ongoing efforts, the country is revising its Cybersecurity and Cyber Crimes Act, originally passed in 2021, to address the evolving nature of digital crime. The Minister highlighted the importance of a comprehensive legislative framework that can adapt to emerging cyber risks while providing a preventive approach to securing the digital space. The capacity-building training and legislative reforms aim to provide the tools and legal backing needed to combat cybercrime effectively.
ZICTA’s acting director general, Engineer Collins Mbulo, reinforced the significance of equipping both regulatory and law enforcement bodies with the expertise needed to handle the complexities of cybercrime. He emphasized that digital crimes are no longer a distant concern but a present reality that impacts individuals, businesses, and governments alike. By continuing to invest in training and international cooperation, Zambia aims to stay ahead of the curve in safeguarding its digital future while ensuring the security of its citizens in an increasingly connected world.
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