SECTOR 1 1.8 Websites, blogs and other digital platforms are not required to register with, or obtain permission, from state authorities. Digital platforms have to register with ZICTA. This registration is compulsory when using a .zm domain as well as when opening an internet café. Under the Electronic Communications and Transactions Act the use of a satellite dish for internet also has to be registered with ZICTA. It was noted that Zambian Watchdog did not register its website, but is registered as a news organisation. Community radio stations have to register with an Internet Service Provider (ISP), which in turn has to register with ZICTA. Those who do not register with a .zm domain are not under the ZICTA jurisdiction. However, because they have to register with an ISP, which in turn has to register with ZICTA, this is an indirect form of ZICTA registration. Needless to say, “even if you don’t need to register, they (government) can still block it”. (See indicator 1.9) The government is currently “insisting on the registration of SIM cards” for mobile phone usage. The implication of registration is that people may censor themselves for fear of the repercussions for publishing something that may be seen as antagonistic to government. Scores: Individual scores: 1 Country does not meet indicator 2 Country meets only a few aspects of indicator 3 Country meets some aspects of indicator 4 Country meets most aspects of indicator 5 Country meets all aspects of the indicator Average score: 22 AFRICAN MEDIA BAROMETER ZAMBIA 2013 2.8 (2011:4.4; 2009: 4.3; 2007: n/a; 2005: n/a)