GOVERNMENT WARNS AGAINST TRIBALISM AND HATE SPEECH ONLINE

GOVERNMENT WARNS AGAINST TRIBALISM AND HATE SPEECH ONLINE

The Government has expressed concern over the circulation of social media content that has the potential to promote tribalism, hatred and division among the people of Zambia. 

In a statement, Ministry of Information and Media Permanent Secretary Thabo Kawana said Zambia’s strength lies in its unity, diversity and the enduring principle of One Zambia, One Nation, urging citizens to exercise their constitutional right to freedom of expression responsibly and within the confines of the law.

Mr Kawana said freedom of expression does not extend to hate speech, tribal incitement or any communication intended to promote hostility or discrimination. He called on social media users, online media platforms, bloggers, content creators, influencers and members of the public to exercise restraint and responsibility when creating, publishing, sharing or commenting on online content. 

He added that the Cyber Security Act, 2025 and the Cyber Crimes Act, 2025 provide a legal framework for addressing the misuse of digital platforms, with offenders liable to investigation and prosecution.

Mr Kawana further urged the public to verify information before sharing it and to refrain from circulating content that may inflame tensions or undermine national unity. 

He said the Government will continue working with law enforcement and regulatory institutions to curb the abuse of cyberspace while appealing to traditional leaders, religious organisations, political leaders, civil society, the media and all citizens to promote peace, tolerance, mutual respect and national unity by rejecting tribalism, hate speech and all forms of divisive rhetoric.