STATE OF THE MEDIA IN ZAMBIA Figure 1: Comparison of Access between Online Newspapers and other Mass Media (Compiled by Parkie Mbozi) 4.1Policy and Statutory Framework The second quarter of 2018 started with a tense debate following the pronouncement of the proposed cyber security bills. The three Bills are: (i) Cyber Security and Cybercrimes Bill of 2018, (ii) Data Protection Bill, and (iii) Electronic Commerce and Transactions Bill of 2018. This period had many media advocates including civil society organisations and opposition political parties and members of the public express concern on the proposed bills. According to the government, the bills are set to regulate the use of social media, stating that there has been abuse of social media by members of the public. On 4th April, 2018, the Zambia Daily Mail cited Minister of Transport and Communications, Brian Mushimba announcing government plans to enact cyber security bills2. Further the minister announced that the three bills were ready for approval3. 2 Zambia Daily Mail - Cyber Security Bills on Course for Enactment – 4th April, 2018 3 News Diggers - Social Media Regulation Bill Ready For Approval-Minister – 12th April, 2018 8