Zambia Cabinet Approves Amendments to Digital Transactions Legislation

Zambia’s government has approved two major bills to modernize digital transactions and postal services, aligning the country’s legal framework with cybersecurity and e-commerce demands.

At its 17th meeting, the Cabinet gave in-principle approval to the Electronic Communications and Transactions (Amendment) Bill, 2025 and the Postal Services (Repeal) Bill, 2025. The move is designed to strengthen regulation of digital services, ensure secure electronic payments, and replace outdated postal legislation.

The amendment to the Electronic Communications and Transactions Act, first enacted in 2021, addresses conflicts with the upcoming Cybersecurity Act, 2025 and reinforces oversight of public key infrastructure for safe digital transactions. According to Information and Media Minister Cornelius Mweetwa, the existing framework faced challenges with licensing processes and the classification of critical information infrastructure.

The Postal Services (Repeal) Bill will replace the 2009 Postal Services Act, which officials say no longer reflects today’s technological environment. With the rise of e-commerce, cybercrime, and counterfeiting, Zambia is seeking to modernize postal and courier regulation.

These legislative reforms form part of the National Digital Transformation Strategy 2023–2027, aimed at boosting investor confidence, expanding trust in digital services, and creating a safer digital economy. If approved by Parliament, the changes are expected to harmonize e-transactions with cybersecurity law, strengthen consumer protection in digital commerce, and improve oversight of licensing and infrastructure.

The Cabinet’s decision coincides with a new World Bank–supported program designed to increase jobs and inclusive access to digital services across Zambia, highlighting the government’s commitment to accelerating digital adoption.