Government has disclosed that it is already working on monetizing social media platforms to enable content creators earn money in Zambia.
Ministry of Youth, Sports and Arts, Permanent Secretary Kangwa Chileshe made the remarks during the official opening of the 2026 African Creative Industries Business Summit and Kwimbo National Arts Festival in Lusaka.
And Mr Chileshe said Zambia has made significant progress in transforming the creative arts sector into a viable contributor to the country’s economy through key policy reforms, infrastructure development and artist empowerment programmes.
Mr Chileshe said government has delivered on its commitment to strengthen the arts industry over the past five years.
“Government has established Arts as a standalone department, launched the country’s first National Arts Policy, reviewed the National Film Policy and embarked on modernising outdated legislation governing the arts and film sectors,” the Permanent Secretary stated.
He added that the reforms, including the replacement of the National Arts Council Act of 1994 and the Theatres and Cinematography Act of 1929, will pave the way for the establishment of a Film Commission and position Zambia as a competitive filming destination.
Mr Chileshe further noted that government has removed import duty on film and music equipment, joined the ATA Carnet system to facilitate international investment and commissioned rehabilitation works at the Lusaka Playhouse as part of efforts to improve arts infrastructure.
He also highlighted that Zambia ratified the 2005 UNESCO Convention on the Protection and Promotion of the Diversity of Cultural Expressions in 2023, reinforcing the country’s commitment to cultural diversity.
The Permanent Secretary said the National Arts Council is now contributing revenue to the national treasury, while more than 3,000 artists have been trained in financial literacy and business development.
Mr Chileshe disclosed that over 2,000 artists have been enrolled on a social security scheme, giving them access to retirement pensions, maternity benefits, funeral support and credit facilities for the first time.
He also revealed that government has supported more than 100 artists to represent Zambia at international events.
Speaking at the same event, United Nations Development Programme (UNDP) Resident Representative James Wakiaga said the creative sector is central to the country’s economic development.
And Africa Creative Market Founder, Inya Lawal called for the stakeholder’s collaboration to create opportunities for the creative sector to thrive.
