The Zambia Information and Communications Technology Authority (ZICTA), in partnership with the International Telecommunications Union (ITU), a United Nations organization, launched a two-day in-service training program for prosecutors on 19th November 2024 in Lusaka. 

During the opening ceremony, Minister of Technology, Honorable Felix Mutati, through Director of Communications Mr. Milner Makuni, emphasized the rapid pace of technological advancements and the importance of equipping prosecutors with skills to keep up with these changes. ITU representative Anne Ssembonga and ZICTA Acting Director-General Eng. Collins Mbulo reiterated the need for prosecutors to enhance their understanding of digital evidence and develop the legal expertise to analyze and argue cases involving electronic data. 

Representing the Director of Public Prosecutions (DPP), Chief State Advocate Ms. Nkumbiza Mumba highlighted the critical role of prosecutors in staying ahead of cybercriminals. She pointed out how digital technology is being used in crimes such as financial fraud, wildlife trafficking, gender-based violence, and other fraudulent activities, stressing the need for continued learning. 

The training sessions are being facilitated by Professor Tana Pistorius, an expert in information and technology law from the University of Auckland, New Zealand. The program focuses on global trends in technology and the practical application of key Zambian laws such as the Cybersecurity and Cyber Crimes Act and the Information and Communications Technology Act. 

A total of 50 prosecutors are participating in the training, with the expectation that they will immediately apply their new skills to enhance the prosecution of cyber-related crimes.