Zambia Launches National Child Online Protection Strategy 2025–2029

Lusaka – The Government of Zambia has launched the National Child Online Protection (COP) Strategy 2025–2029, aimed at safeguarding children from online risks, including sexual abuse, exploitation, and exposure to harmful digital content.

Speaking at the launch, the Permanent Secretary for the Ministry of Science and Technology expressed gratitude to UNICEF and line ministries for their role in promoting child protection in the digital space. He emphasized the urgent need for a coordinated strategy given the growing use of the internet among children in Zambia.

“Approximately 38 percent of Zambian internet users are under the age of 13. If left unguarded, this exposes them to online sexual abuse, harmful content, and exploitation,” he said.

The Permanent Secretary noted that while Zambia has recorded improvements in its cyber index score, there remains a significant threat to children, who may encounter negative experiences online. Some children inadvertently click on unsafe links, exposing them to abusive materials, highlighting the importance of proactive interventions.

The strategy seeks to provide a comprehensive framework for protecting children online, including awareness campaigns for parents, teachers, and guardians, strengthened legal and regulatory measures, and collaboration with digital platforms to ensure safer online experiences.

“The government supports this programme because it addresses real threats children face on the internet, while helping them benefit safely from digital opportunities,” he added.

UNICEF and partner ministries have welcomed the launch, emphasizing that child online protection is critical to ensuring Zambia’s young population can safely navigate the digital world, while minimizing risks and fostering responsible internet use.

The National COP Strategy 2025–2029 will guide interventions over the next five years, marking a significant step in Zambia’s commitment to child safety and digital responsibility.