Zambia’s Parliament has approved a motion urging the government to facilitate social media monetization, enabling content creators and influencers to generate income from their online platforms.
The motion, spearheaded by Nkana Member of Parliament Binwell Mpundu, was seconded by Kamfinsa MP Christopher Kang’ombe and supported by multiple lawmakers, including three Cabinet Ministers. This initiative seeks to provide young Zambians with new revenue opportunities while contributing to national economic growth.
In presenting the motion, Mr. Mpundu emphasized that social media monetization involves converting views, streams, and interactions into income. He highlighted its potential to reduce unemployment and provide a steady revenue stream for the youth.
“Social media can be a powerful communication tool and a productive income source if properly utilized,” Mpundu said. “This process allows creators—vloggers, artists, writers, and media houses—to earn revenue while enabling the government to collect taxes through the Zambia Revenue Authority (ZRA).”
He urged the Minister of Technology and Science, Felix Mutati, to expedite the implementation of the proposal, describing it as a win-win for both citizens and the government.
Seconding the motion, Kamfinsa MP Christopher Kang’ombe noted that Zambia’s ICT sector contributed only 2.6% of the country’s $28 billion GDP in 2023.
“This sector has untapped potential,” Kang’ombe stated. “Monetizing social media presents a significant opportunity to boost the ICT sector’s contribution to the economy while creating revenue for individuals and the government.”
The motion received widespread support from lawmakers, including Lunte MP Mutotwe Kafwaya, Mongu Central MP Oliver Amutike, and Kafue MP Mirriam Chonya, as well as Ministers Cornelius Mweetwa (Information and Media), Elvis Nkandu (Youth, Sport and Art), and Felix Mutati (Technology and Science).
Minister of Information and Media Cornelius Mweetwa announced ongoing efforts to update the Independent Broadcasting Authority (IBA) Act, which partially governs social media. The proposed reforms aim to create a conducive environment for social media monetization and digital innovation.
As the government moves forward, the monetization of social media could transform Zambia’s digital economy, empowering creators and bolstering the nation’s financial standing.