Zambia Information and Communications Technology Authority Warns Against AI Misuse Targeting President

ZICTA has warned that it will take firm action against individuals abusing social media and Artificial Intelligence (AI), particularly those creating and sharing fake content targeting President Hakainde Hichilema.

‎ZICTA says it has noted a growing trend of AI misuse on social media, where manipulated images and videos of the President and other individuals are being circulated. Speaking during a courtesy call on Copperbelt Province Minister Elisha Matambo in Ndola, ZICTA Director General Collins Mbulo said the Authority is committed to ensuring that offenders are brought to justice.

‎Mr. Mbulo stated that the newly enacted Cyber Security Act of 2025 will be strictly enforced. He added that, in collaboration with other law enforcement agencies, ZICTA has already apprehended several individuals accused of internet abuse, with many cases currently before the courts.

‎He was responding to concerns raised by Mr. Matambo, who urged the Authority to intensify efforts to curb social media abuse, particularly from anonymous accounts that insult innocent citizens and national leaders.

‎Mr. Matambo stressed that ZICTA has a responsibility to safeguard the digital space and prevent it from being used to undermine democracy or threaten national peace, especially as the country approaches the general elections. He described the issue as a matter of national security that requires urgent attention.

‎Meanwhile, ZICTA’s director general and management team are in Copperbelt Province to inspect ongoing projects being implemented by the Authority in the region.