ZICTA Warns Against Fake Coronavirus News

The Zambia Information and Communications Technology Authority (ZICTA) has instructed the public to refrain from circulating any information pertaining to the coronavirus that might be fake, unverified, or otherwise suspect. 

In a statement published online, ZICTA spokesperson Ngabo Nankonde told journalists, bloggers, and administrators for WhatsApp and Facebook groups to be on their guard for fake news, as well as to double check that information comes from a reliable source before sharing. 

Ms Nankonde also reminded the public that the circulation of fake news with an intent to cause fear is punishable under the law in Zambia. 

She stated that ZICTA would support law enforcement agencies, including the police, in making sure that those who distributed false information were brought to heel.

Meanwhile, the Ministry for Health and Ministry of Information and Broadcasting have both promised to issue regular updates and hold press briefings to keep the public informed of the spread of the coronavirus. 

This follows the confirmation of Zambia’s first two coronavirus cases on Wednesday: a couple who had recently returned from a trip to France with their children. 

The cases were confirmed after the government had already shut down the country’s schools as a preventative measure against the pandemic.