An Appraisal of the Information and Communication Technology Association of Zambia Act 2018 in Strengthening Professionalism in the Zambian ICT Sector: Lessons drawn from Nigeria.

Abstract

The Information and Communication Technology Association of Zambia (ICTAZ) Act of 2018 represents a pivotal legislative effort to professionalise Zambia's rapidly growing ICT sector. This dissertation provided a critical appraisal of the Act's efficacy in strengthening professionalism by establishing a statutory self-regulatory framework for ICT practitioners. It identified and analysed significant gaps within the Act, including the lack of explicit disciplinary measures for professional misconduct, insufficiently structured continuous professional development (CPD) mandates, and an enforcement mechanism that lacks the robust separation of investigative and adjudicative functions found in more mature jurisdictions. The study argued that these legislative shortcomings potentially undermine the Act's core objective of fostering a culture of high ethical standards, technical competence, and public accountability. To propose constructive reforms, this research employed a comparative legal methodology, drawing critical lessons from Nigeria's established regulatory model, the Computer Professionals (Registration Council of Nigeria) Act. The analysis revealed that the Nigerian framework offers a superior blueprint due to its prescriptive standards, mandatory educational accreditation powers, and a clearly defined disciplinary architecture with separate Investigating Panels and Disciplinary Tribunals. The study concluded by offering targeted recommendations for legislative amendment, advocating for the elevation of ICTAZ's mandate to a standard-prescribing council, the institutionalisation of a separated disciplinary process, the codification of mandatory CPD, and the introduction of professional indemnity insurance requirements. These reforms are posited as essential for Zambia to cultivate a reputable, accountable, and globally competitive ICT profession capable of driving its digital transformation agenda.