FOX Report: 65% of Journalists Still Struggle to Access Information in Zambia
Access to information remains a significant challenge for journalists in Zambia despite the enactment of the Access to Information (ATI) Act, according to the latest Freedom of Expression (FOX) Report by MISA Zambia.
The report, covering July to December 2025, reveals that 65% of journalists surveyed said it is not easy to access information, while 23% described the process as difficult. Only 11% indicated that access to information is very easy. These figures show minimal improvement compared to the previous reporting period, where 64% reported difficulties.
The findings further indicate that 79% of journalists struggle to access government officials, citing unresponsiveness, ignored calls and messages, and lengthy bureaucratic procedures as key barriers. Only 21% of respondents said they were able to access most officials.
Speaking during the launch in Lusaka, Permanent Secretary in the Ministry of Information and Media, Thabo Kawana, represented by Director for Press and Media Morden Mayembe, commended MISA Zambia for consistently producing the report since its inception in 2022.
Mr Kawana noted that the FOX Report has become an important reference point for assessing the state of media freedom, freedom of expression, and digital rights in the country.
He added that the findings come at a critical time as Zambia prepares for the 2026 general elections, underscoring the need to strengthen democratic processes through improved access to information.
Mr Kawana further said that the government remains committed to the full implementation of the ATI Act, including strengthening institutional frameworks and enhancing capacity within public institutions.
MISA Zambia Board Chairperson, Lorraine Mwanza Chisanga, urged authorities to accelerate the implementation of the law, improve the responsiveness of public officials, and review legislation that may hinder media freedom.
She emphasised that the FOX Report should serve not only as a reflection of existing challenges but also as a call to action, noting that democracy requires continuous effort, vigilance, and collaboration.
Mrs Chisanga further stressed the importance of creating an environment where diverse voices are heard and information flows freely, particularly as the country approaches the 2026 polls.
Meanwhile, MISA Zambia National Director Austin Kayanda expressed gratitude to cooperating partners for their continued support, reaffirming the organisation’s commitment to working with government, civil society, and the media to promote access to information and other fundamental rights.
The FOX Report, a flagship initiative by MISA Zambia, has been produced since 2022 and is based on stakeholder perceptions of freedom of expression, media freedom, and digital rights in Zambia.
