In a time when information moves fast and misinformation spreads even faster, media and information literacy is no longer optional. It is a life skill.

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The Zambia Free Press Initiative (FPI) has wrapped up the third and final session of its national training series for women environmental rights defenders and female journalists, this time in Choma, Southern Province.

The two-day workshop held from November 12-13, brought together 32 women on the frontlines of climate challenges in their communities, building on earlier sessions held in the Copperbelt and Northern Province.

For the FPI, taking these workshops directly into the districts was intentional, as every town carries its own climate story, and every woman affected has a voice worth hearing. The conversations during these engagements were more grounded, practical, and urgent, and Choma was no exception.

Day One: Real Stories, Real Impact
The first day focused on understanding how climate change is reshaping daily life for women. Participants shared firsthand accounts of dried-up water sources, unpredictable rainfall, reduced crop yields, and the rising pressure placed on women who manage food, water, and household stability.

For many, this workshop was the first space where their experiences were taken seriously and connected to broader national climate discussions. The women spoke openly about the emotional and economic strain their communities face. Others described growing tensions over land and water that often go unnoticed at the national level.

These conversations guided the group into designing practical action plans from promoting sustainable farming techniques to strengthening community awareness on climate-smart practices. What stood out was the determination to turn personal experiences into powerful advocacy.

Day Two: Understanding the Legal Side of Climate and Environmental Protection

On the second day, participants dived into the legal frameworks governing climate and environmental protection in Zambia. This session opened their eyes to the policies, rights, and obligations that shape how communities respond to climate impacts.

Topics covered included:
• Zambia’s Environmental Management Act
• Climate Change Policy frameworks
• Rights of women in environmental decision-making
• How to use the law to protect land, water, and community resources
• The role of media in holding institutions accountable

For many participants, understanding the legal landscape strengthened their confidence and highlighted how essential it is for journalists and activists to know the policies that guide climate governance, especially as they report stories and advocate for stronger protections.

A Turning Point: The Birth of a Women’s Climate Coalition

One of the most important outcomes of this workshop and the national series was the formation of a Women’s Coalition for Climate Action. This step grew naturally from the discussions, storytelling, and challenges that were shared across all three provinces.

The coalitions will serve as national networks connecting women from different backgrounds but with a shared mission: amplifying women’s perspectives in climate reporting, advocating for climate justice, and strengthening community resilience.

The work doesn’t end here; it begins now, with women across Zambia stepping forward as champions of climate justice.

By Chama Chabasungu

The Zambia Free Press Initiative (FPI) held the first central training for 20 young female broadcast journalists selected for the fourth cohort of the Moto initiative, a collaboration between FPI and BBC Media Action under the Funsani Project and supported by the Swedish International Development Agency (SIDA).

The five-day training held from October 6 to 10 brought together 20 female practicing journalists from all 10 provinces of Zambia, building their confidence and sharpening their skills in journalism practice.

The participants engaged in hands-on sessions, shared real newsroom experiences, and learned practical tools to help them tell stories that are factual, ethical, and impactful.

Chief Executive Officer of BBC Media Action, Simon Bishop, visited the training, expressing his joy in seeing how Zambian female journalists are being empowered to shape a more balanced and professional media landscape.

Participants have returned to their newsrooms, eager to put their enhanced skills into practice.

This marks the beginning of the Moto girls’ journey to showcase their work, and continue to grow into powerful voices for truth and accountability.

“The Moto project stands as a testament to what happens when women in journalism are given the tools, knowledge, and platform to thrive. The story continues stronger and louder than ever,” said FPI founder and executive director, Joan Chirwa.

The Zambia Free Press Initiative (FPI) successfully completed a two-day induction boot camp for its journalism interns, equipping them with the skills, confidence, and motivation to take on the newsroom.

Held at Casamunji in Lusaka from 13^th to 14^th September, the programme brought together 10 students from different learning institutions, including Evelyn Hone College, Cavendish University, Mulungushi University, ZAMCOM, the University of Zambia, and others.

The camp opened with a lighthearted energizer that helped the interns shake off their nerves and build team spirit ahead of the day’s sessions. From there, the young journalists shared their expectations and were introduced to how professional newsrooms operate.

FPI founder, Joan Chirwa, shared her personal journey in the industry, recalling her days as a student, the struggles she endured, and how resilience shaped her career. She reminded the interns that journalism is “the Lord’s work” and urged them to seize opportunities while still young and energetic.

The camp also featured a session with BBC Media Action project manager, Boyd Chibale, who encouraged the interns to pursue journalism with passion rather than money. He stressed that journalists hold power to hold leaders accountable and to write stories that drive real change in society.

On the final day, the students took part in a practical newsroom diary session that tackled one of their biggest challenges developing story ideas. With guidance from FPI and BBC Media Action mentors, they were introduced to practical tools and methods for generating strong, workable ideas.

By the end of the camp, fears had been replaced with excitement. The interns expressed confidence that they are now ready to step into their roles and begin telling stories that matter.

The induction marked the beginning of an enriching journey for the interns, who will now move into newsroom training and field practice under FPI’s mentorship programmes.

By Zambia Free Press Initiative

LUSAKA – The Zambia Free Press Initiative (FPI) and Chapter One Foundation, with support from the Embassy of the Czech Republic in Zambia, on Monday, 15th September 2025, joined the global community in marking the International Day of Democracy. The commemoration, held at the WILS Hotel Supreme in Lusaka, attracted diplomats, government officials, civil society leaders, students, and members of the media.

The day was opened with keynote addresses from the Ambassador of the Czech Republic to Zambia and Senior Counsel Musa Mwenye, who both underscored the need to protect Zambia’s democratic gains while confronting the challenges that threaten civic space and good governance.

Ambassador Pavel Procházka reflected on his country’s own democratic journey, recalling how the Velvet Revolution of 1989 ended decades of authoritarian rule in the Czech Republic. He emphasized that democracy must be defended daily through free institutions, independent media, and active citizen participation. “Democracy is not merely a system of government; it is a continuous process of dialogue, participation, and respect for the dignity of every individual,” he said.

Mr. Mwenye, in his keynote, warned against the dangers of “elected autocrats,” stressing that elections alone do not guarantee democracy. He called for vigilance to prevent leaders from consolidating unchecked power, reminding participants that Zambia itself experienced a slide into one-party rule just eight years after independence.

“Democracies can produce autocrats who are elected in free and fair elections but who create systems that become autocracies. Eternal vigilance is extremely necessary,” he noted.

Throughout the day, discussions explored Zambia’s democratic journey, the challenges and opportunities ahead of the 2026 elections, and the need to protect electoral integrity. Media freedom, the safety of journalists, youth participation, citizen engagement, digital rights, and inclusion of persons with disabilities were central themes.

Speakers stressed that democracy only thrives when citizens actively participate, institutions remain accountable, and all voices including those of women, youth, journalists, and persons with disabilities are heard and respected.

The presence of students and young leaders was widely acknowledged as a positive sign for the country’s democratic resilience. Ambassador Procházka reaffirmed the Czech Republic’s support for Zambia’s democratic process, highlighting development cooperation initiatives that include civic education, youth empowerment, sustainable agriculture, and water management. He noted that these programs are investments in the long-term democratic stability of Zambian society.

The presence of students and young leaders was widely acknowledged as a positive sign for the country’s democratic resilience. Speakers urged young people to claim their space, both online and offline, in shaping Zambia’s governance.

In his closing message, Ambassador Procházka reaffirmed the Czech Republic’s support for Zambia’s democratic journey, noting that Czech development cooperation spans areas such as civic education, youth empowerment, sustainable agriculture, and water management all investments that strengthen democratic resilience.

The International Day of Democracy, first proclaimed by the United Nations in 2007, is observed annually on 15th September. It serves as a global reminder that democracy, human rights, and development are interlinked and mutually reinforcing.

For FPI and Chapter One Foundation, this year’s commemoration reinforced a simple but urgent message: democracy only thrives when citizens participate, institutions remain accountable, and every voice including those of women, youth, journalists, and persons with disabilities is heard and respected.

Lusaka, August 25, 2025- The Free Press Initiative (FPI) is concerned with the detention of The Mast Kabwe-based journalist, Thandizo Banda, who was held by police for taking a photograph of a vehicle carrying Electoral Commission of Zambia Chairperson, Mrs. Mwangala Zaloumis, during her visit to Chowa Police Station to see her murder-accused daughter.
Mr. Banda was detained for three hours and released after paying an admission of guilt fine for alleged conduct likely to cause a breach of peace, reportedly for using his phone to take the photograph.

The first day of the National Consultative Forum on Cyber Laws, hosted by the Zambia Free Press Initiative and Young Women in Action, brought together young people from the Copperbelt, Eastern, and Southern provinces to reflect on the state of digital safety and freedoms in Zambia.

The conversations went beyond presentations participants shared personal challenges, raised critical questions, and actively engaged in group discussions aimed at unpacking the real-life impact of cyber laws.

Key Discussion Highlights:

Understanding the Amended Cyber Laws
Participants expressed concern over the limited public awareness of Zambia’s amended cyber laws. Many were unaware of the specific provisions or how these laws apply to everyday online behavior. There were concerns that vague wording in the law could lead to misuse, particularly when it comes to regulating expression on social media. The group emphasized the need for more youth-friendly educational resources and better legal support for those affected.

Digital Hygiene and Online Protection

There was a general acknowledgment that most young people lack knowledge about protecting themselves online. Issues like using weak or repeated passwords, falling for fake links, and unknowingly exposing personal data were raised. Participants called for more community-based digital literacy initiatives and urged schools and youth centers to introduce basic cybersecurity education.

Freedom of Expression in the Digital Space

Participants highlighted a growing sense of fear when expressing opinions online, especially on political or social issues. Many felt that online platforms are no longer safe spaces for open discussion. Concerns were also raised about the harassment faced by female content creators and activists. The group discussed the need to strike a balance between security enforcement and safeguarding free expression, calling for policy review and improved public communication on rights and protections.
The forum created a safe and constructive space for young people to reflect on their experiences and explore solutions that center their voices. It was clear that cyber safety is no longer just a technical issue it’s a human rights concern.

The event was made possible by our coalition partners Chapter One Foundation, Bloggers of Zambia, Agents of Change Foundation, and Disability Rights Watch.

This forum is part of the ongoing Claim Your Space project, supported by the Danish Minorities Centre for Human Rights & Development.

The interactive sessions continue tomorrow, with practical tools, and youth-led advocacy expected to take center stage.

DEMOCRACY AND MEDIA A GUIDE TO REPORTING
ELECTIONS IN ZAMBIA

Citizens, journalists, civil society actors, and persons with disabilities gathered in Lusaka on May 15 for a public forum aimed at deepening understanding of Zambia’s newly enacted cyber laws.

The event was organized by the Zambia Free Press Initiative (FPI) in partnership with Young Women in Action (YWA), under the ongoing Claim Your Space project aimed to promote freedom of expression. The project is supported by Global Focus and the Danish Minorities Center for Human Rights & Development.

Held under the theme “Understanding and Navigating Zambia’s Cyber Legislation”, the forum sought to build awareness around the country’s digital laws and how they affect freedom of expression, data protection, and access to information.

In his address, Zambia Police Assistant Public Relations Officer Mr. Godfrey Chilabi outlined the role of law enforcement under the new framework. He emphasized that the recently amended cyber laws are not designed to restrict civic space but to offer safeguards in an increasingly digital environment.

“These laws exist to protect citizens from harm online—not to infringe on rights,” Chilabi said.

He further pointed to the Access to Information Act as a key legal tool available to journalists, human rights defenders, and everyday citizens seeking transparency and accountability.

Mr Chilabi also announced that the Zambia Police Service is working to improve accessibility across its institutions, adding that plans are underway to introduce sign language interpretation services in police stations across the country.

“Everyone deserves to be heard, understood, and protected,” he said, reaffirming the service’s commitment to inclusion.

The presence and participation of persons with disabilities at the forum added depth to the conversations. With support from Disability Rights Watch (DRW), interpreters were made available throughout the event to ensure full access and engagement.

Legal experts from the Chapter One Foundation facilitated interactive sessions, covering key aspects of the law, including digital rights, protections against online abuse, and how to report violations. Participants expressed concern about online surveillance, cyberbullying, and the misuse of digital spaces to silence dissent.

“This forum has given me clarity,” said one participant from a Lusaka-based youth group. “I now know what to do if someone threatens or misuses my information online.”

The Lusaka forum was part of the FPI’s broader national effort to equip citizens with information and tools to safely and confidently engage in the digital space.

The Zambia Free Press Initiative (FPI), in collaboration with Young Women in Action (YWA), has intensified efforts to safeguard freedom of expression in Zambia through its Claim Your Space project. The initiative, supported by Global Fokus and the Danish Minorities Center for Human Rights & Development, comes at a critical time as the recently assented cyber laws raise alarm over digital rights and free speech.

Grassroots Mobilization Across Provinces

The FPI and YWA have conducted a series of provincial forums, engaging communities in Kitwe (Copperbelt), Kalomo (Southern Province), and Chipata (Eastern Province). These meetings brought together journalists, activists, and civil society representatives to discuss the shrinking space for free expression, particularly under the new cyber laws. Participants highlighted concerns over vague provisions that could criminalize dissent and suppress critical voices.

In Chipata, the dialogue included perspectives from Disability Rights Watch (DRW), emphasizing the need for inclusive policies that protect marginalized groups. The discussions underscored the delicate balance between online safety and free speech, with calls for laws that uphold constitutional rights without enabling government overreach.

High-Level Engagement with Parliamentarians

As part of our campaign, a parliamentary roundtable in Lusaka was held for members of the Parliamentary Committee on Media and the Youth Parliamentary Caucus. Key issues raised included the lack of human rights safeguards in the new cyber laws and their potential to stifle democratic discourse.

Members of Parliament, including Raphael Mabenga, Christopher Kang’ombe, Twaambo Mutinta, and Sydney Mushanga, acknowledged the need for broader stakeholder consultation in the lawmaking process.

Digital Rights Under Threat

With the new cyber laws in place, fears over its misuse to target critics, activists, and journalists have heightened. Bloggers of Zambia and Chapter One Foundation, key partners in the Claim Your Space project, warned that the laws’ broad definitions of offenses could lead to arbitrary arrests and censorship.

The project continues to empower citizens through digital literacy programs, teaching Zambians how to navigate online spaces safely while exercising their right to free expression. Advocacy efforts also focus on pushing back surveillance overreach and ensuring accountability in the law’s implementation.
The FPI, YWA, and partners urge Zambians to remain vigilant as the new cyber laws take effect.
Citizens are encouraged to:
• Stay informed about their digital rights
• Challenge oppressive enforcement of cyber laws
• Participate in civic dialogues to defend democratic freedoms

The Claim Your Space project will remain at the forefront of defending people’s rights, ensuring that every voice—online and offline—can speak freely without fear.