Story by Peter Chivhima
GOVERNMENT has intensified efforts to curb cyberbullying and other forms of online abuse by adopting a multi-sectoral approach that brings together key ministries to strengthen enforcement under the Cyber and Data Protection Act.
The strategy involves close collaboration between the Ministry of Information Communication Technology, Postal and Courier Services, the Ministry of Justice, Legal and Parliamentary Affairs, and the Ministry of Home Affairs and Cultural Heritage, as authorities respond to a rise in reported cybercrime cases.
Recent court cases linked to online harassment, including those involving Elisha Ruhinga of Chitungwiza and Olinda Chapel, have heightened public concern and renewed calls for stricter accountability for abuse on digital platforms.
Government officials say the strengthened framework aims to ensure that perpetrators of cyberbullying and harassment are identified, investigated and prosecuted in line with the law.
Speaking on the issue, Minister of Information Communication Technology, Postal and Courier Services, Honourable Tatenda Mavetera, said the multi-ministry approach was designed to improve coordination and capacity in dealing with cyber offences.
“What we are doing as government is working closely with other ministries, such as the Ministry of Justice, Legal and Parliamentary Affairs, and the Ministry of Home Affairs and Cultural Heritage. This collaboration ensures that our officers are well-equipped to know how to bring offenders to book when a cybercrime is committed. We are also continuously training our officers and conducting awareness campaigns to educate the people,” Minister Mavetera said.
The growing prevalence of cyberbullying has also drawn strong reactions from the public and church communities, who have voiced concern over the social and psychological impact of online harassment, particularly on young people.
Members of the church described cyberbullying as a destructive practice that undermines human dignity and social cohesion, urging users of social media platforms to act responsibly and with respect.
They warned that online abuse often leaves lasting emotional scars, erodes confidence and can tear families and communities apart if left unchecked.
The Cyber and Data Protection Act, which came into effect in 2021, was enacted to safeguard personal data, regulate the processing of information, and provide a legal framework for addressing cybercrime while building trust in the use of information and communication technologies.
As cyber-related offences continue to evolve, Government says sustained public awareness, inter-ministerial cooperation and strict enforcement of the law remain central to protecting citizens and promoting responsible use of digital platforms.
