LUSAKA INTERNET MEET-UP 2025

The Lusaka Internet Meet-Up, launched in 2019, is an annual multistakeholder event that brings together individuals and organizations interested in Zambia’s digital transformation. It serves as a platform for dialogue on internet governance, digital rights, and policy development, promoting a free, open, affordable, and inclusive internet.
The event encourages collaboration, knowledge sharing, and capacity building, helping to shape Zambia’s digital future. It also provides actionable recommendations for policymakers, regulators, and law enforcement on key digital issues.

The 2025 Meet-Up will be held under the theme:
“Advancing Zambia’s Digital Future: Bridging the Digital Divide While Fighting for Freedom.”

Submit a proposal for review to host a session at the Lusaka Internet Meet-Up under the following sub-themes;

1. Digital Governance:
   This theme delves into how government is using digital technologies to design, implement and deliver public services in a transparent, efficient and citizen-centered way. The theme focuses on how the integration digital tools and systems into public administration can improve access, accountability and responsiveness. The theme dives into electronic government (E-Government) platforms or online portals where citizens can access services like tax filing, licenses, birth registration, social protection e.g pensions and social cash transfer, digital identity systems, road traffic management services and others.

2. Cyber Law and Policy:
   Under this sub-theme, session organisers will explore the evolving landscape of cyber law and digital policy in Zambia, with a focus on how legislation is necessary for combating cybercrimes and strengthening the cyber security in the republic. The theme will also debate potential cyber law impacts on free expression, privacy access to information, entrepreneurship and innovation. It will provide a platform for constructive debate and dialogue among policymakers, civil society, legal experts and technology stakeholders to assess the implementation of existing laws such as Data Protection Act, Cyber Security Act, Cybercrimes Act and to propose rights-based policy reforms. The session aims to promote inclusive and accountable digital governance that protects citizens while fostering a safe and open internet.

3. Youth and Civic Engagement:
   This sub-theme spotlights the dynamic role of young people in shaping Zambia’s digital democracy. The theme explores how young Zambians are leveraging social media, digital tools and online platforms to mobilize, advocate and influence civic and political processes. The session will also examine barriers to meaningful participation such as digital exclusion, low literacy and misinformation. The theme will also identify strategies to enhance youth engagement in governance, policy-making and digital rights advocacy. The discussion will aim to amplify youth voices and foster innovation in civic technology and digital activism.

4. Misinformation, Free Expression and Accountability:
   This theme dives into the complex relationship between misinformation, freedom of expression and the role of citizens in upholding transparency and accountability standards. The theme will explore how spreading false information affects public trust, public discourse and democratic participation, while also examining the risks of over-regulation and censorship under the excuse of combating misinformation. The session will highlight the importance of media literacy, fact-checking and open dialogue in promoting responsible digital citizenship and ensuring that efforts to counter misinformation do not undermine fundamental rights and freedoms.

5. Cyber Security, Cybercrimes and Online Protection:
   This sub-theme will examine the state of cybersecurity in Zambia, addressing the rise in cybercrimes such as data breaches, online fraud, identity theft and digital harassment and bullying. It will explore how citizens, businesses and institutions can better protect themselves in an increasingly connected world. The session will also assess the effectiveness of current laws, policies and enforcement mechanisms while emphasizing the need for a rights-based approach to online protection. Session organisers will discuss digital safety, resilience and the balance between security and freedoms in the digital age.

6. Infrastructure and Connectivity
   The sub-theme shines a spotlight on the critical importance of building robust digital infrastructure and expanding connectivity to bridge the digital divide. Through insightful discussions, case studies, and interactive sessions, participants will explore strategies to enhance broadband access, improve network reliability, and expand digital infrastructure in urban and rural areas alike, unlocking opportunities for economic development and social inclusion. This sub-theme delves into the challenges and opportunities associated with building and maintaining digital infrastructure, including financing, regulatory frameworks, technological advancements, and public-private partnerships. The theme aims to foster collaboration and knowledge-sharing to popularise progress towards universal access to high-quality, affordable internet connectivity for all Zambians.