By Amos Sikaonga 
By Amos Sikaonga
Cabinet has approved the introduction of a Bill in Parliament to repeal the Data Protection Act No. 3 of 2021.
This is in a bid to broaden Zambia’s legal framework for data management and align it with emerging global technologies.
The current Data Protection Act, enacted in 2021, laid the foundation for the regulation of personal data.
The proposed Bill will include new categories of data such as artificial intelligence (AI), machine learning, data analytics, and non-personal data, in order to respond to rapid advancements in data usage, collection, and processing.
Chief Government Spokesperson Cornelius Mweetwa said in a statement that the current law primarily governs the collection, storage, use, transmission, and processing of personal data, but does not address other critical data types, including industrial, non-personal, and public data.
Mr. Mweetwa ,who is also Minister of Information and Media, noted that the absence of comprehensive regulation in these areas, limits Zambia’s ability to fully harness the economic potential of data and erodes public trust in data protection measures.
“The need to repeal the existing law and enact a more inclusive one is a vital step. It will help Zambia set new standards for data protection and security, safeguard citizens’ data rights, and support sustainable economic and technological development,” he stated.
Meanwhile, Mr. Mweetwa revealed that Cabinet also approved in principle the introduction of a Bill in Parliament to repeal the Theatres and Cinematograph exhibition Act.
He explained that the principal legislation governing film in Zambia is the Theatre and Cinematograph Exhibition Act No. 54 of 1929, which was amended in 1994.
Mr. Mweetwa noted that this Act encompasses various aspects such as film censorship, rating systems, regulation of theatres and cinemas, and the establishment of the Censorship Board of Zambia
“Its primary objective was to ensure that the content produced and exhibited within the country is suitable for public consumption and aligned with national values and principles.”
“However, since its amendment in 1994, significant changes have occurred in the film and theatre industry, both locally and globally,” Mr. Mweetwa said.
He added that the new legislation will, therefore, provide an effective legal framework that will regulate and control the theaters and cinematograph exhibitions, ensuring that local film makers have a platform to showcase their work.
“It will also unlock the full potential of its creative sector, contributing significantly to social, and economic development,” he added.
Cecilia Chiluba