Call for African legislatures to remain vigilant about information security threats

SPEAKER of Parliament Advocate Jacob Mudenda has called on African legislatures to remain vigilant about information security threats as they increasingly adopt information communication technologies (ICTs) in the wake of the Fourth Industrial Revolution driven by Artificial Intelligence (AI).

Adv Mudenda made the remarks during the 56th plenary assembly meetings of the Southern African Development Community (SADC) parliamentary forum in Zambia which started on Monday and ended yesterday,

He emphasised the importance of unity within the SADC region, echoing sentiments expressed by Zambia’s Vice President, Mutale Nalumango.

Adv Mudenda urged legislators to work together to foster a symbiotic relationship that benefits the entire region.

“Parliaments must enact appropriate legislation to mitigate the negative effects of ICTs and AI,” he said.
Highlighting Zambia’s historical significance as the birthplace of many Southern African liberation movements, Adv Mudenda reminded attendees of the country’s pivotal role in enduring colonial challenges.

“Zambia played a major role as the cradle of Southern Africa’s search for freedom and independence, supporting liberation movements unflinchingly,” he said.

Adv Mudenda also commended the Zambian government for its hospitality during the assembly.
He praised the increasing representation of women in African politics, citing leaders such as Vice President Nalumango, Namibia’s first female President Netumbo Nandi-Ndaitwah, Tanzania’s President Samia Suluhu Hassan, and former Malawi President Joyce Banda.

**Former Malawi President Mrs Joyce Banda**

Adv Mudenda lauded Vice-President Nalumango for her memoir, “True to Me: A Memoir of Loss, Resilience, Faith and Service to My Country,” celebrating her contributions to both politics and society.

Speaking during the same event, Vice President Nalumango applauded the recent signing of an agreement by 12 SADC member states to amend the treaty establishing a regional parliament.
She expressed hope that more member states would soon join this initiative, underscoring Zambia’s commitment to operationalising the regional parliament.

This parliament is envisioned as a crucial component of the Pan-African Parliament (PAP) and the African Union (AU).
The Zambian Vice President highlighted her country’s dedication to advancing ICTs as a catalyst for socio-economic development.

She reported ongoing efforts to expand ICT infrastructure, including constructing over 400 communication towers to improve connectivity in rural areas. These initiatives enhance access to essential public services like social cash transfers and healthcare.