Telecommunications in Zambia includes radio, television, fixed and mobile telephones, and the Internet.
The state-ownedZambia National Broadcasting Corporation (ZNBC) operates three radio networks. Roughly two dozen private radio stations are operating. Relays of at least two international broadcasters are accessible inLusaka andKitwe.[1]
ZNBC operates one television station, and is the principal local-content provider. There is also several private TV stations. Multi-channel subscription TV services are available.[1]
Facilities are among the best in sub-Saharan Africa. High-capacitymicrowave radio relay connects most larger towns and cities. Several cellular telephone services are in operation and network coverage is improving. A domestic satellite system is being installed to improve telephone service in rural areas.Very small aperture terminal (VSAT) networks are operated by private firms.[1]
Internet access is not restricted and individuals and groups freely express their views via the Internet, however the government frequently threatens to deregister criticalonline publications andblogs. In October 2012 the government attempted to deregister the blogZambian Watchdog, but was unsuccessful because the blog was hosted abroad and therefore outside government control.[9]
The constitution and law provide forfreedom of speech andpress, however the government uses provisions contained in the law to restrict these freedoms. The government is sensitive to opposition and other criticism and has been quick to prosecute critics using the legal pretext that they had incitedpublic disorder.Libel laws are used to suppress free speech and the press.[9]
The constitution and law prohibit arbitrary interference with privacy, family, home, or correspondence, but the government frequently does not respect these prohibitions. The law requires asearch or arrest warrant before police may enter a home, except during astate of emergency or when police suspect a person has committed an offense such astreason,sedition,defamation of the president, orunlawful assembly. Police routinely enter homes without a warrant. The law grants the Drug Enforcement Commission (DEC), the Zambia Security Intelligence Service (ZSIS), and police authority to monitor communications using wiretaps with a warrant issued on the basis of probable cause, and authorities generally respect this requirement.[9]
This article incorporatespublic domain material fromThe World Factbook (2025 ed.).CIA. (Archived 2014 edition.) This article incorporatespublic domain material from websites or documents of theUnited States Department of State.Currency:Zambian kwacha | |
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