The Zambia Police Service has taken a historic step towards strengthening public engagement, transparency and trust with the official launch of its first-ever Communications Strategy (2024-2026). Developed with support from UNDP Zambia and bilateral donors; the European Union, Embassies of Germany. Sweden, Ireland, France and the United Kingdom (UK)  through the Democracy Strengthening in Zambia (DSZ) Project, this strategy aims to enhance the flow of information, improve crisis communication and modernize police engagement with the public.

Inspector General of Police, Mr. Graphel Musamba, emphasized that this strategy marks a pivotal shift in the Zambia Police Service’s approach to public communication, aligning with its broader 2023-2026 Strategic Plan.

" Transparency, engagement, and collaboration with communities are at the heart of effective policing. This strategy is not just about communication—it is about fostering trust and reinforcing our mission to provide a safe and secure environment for all Zambians," he stated.

The Inspector General further highlighted that timely and accurate communication is fundamental to modern policing, especially in an era where misinformation can spread rapidly. He stressed the need for the Zambia Police Service to take the lead in proactive public engagement and ensure that citizens receive factual, up-to-date information.

Recognizing the growing role of social media in public discourse, the strategy prioritizes the use of digital platforms to improve police-community relations.

"Social media has eclipsed traditional media in how information is disseminated. The Zambia Police Service must harness these platforms to share positive narratives, communicate factual information, and dispel misinformation, ultimately enhancing the trust placed in us by the public," Mr. Musamba stated.

The strategy also includes plans to strengthen internal communication, enhance crisis response mechanisms and improve coordination with media partners, ensuring police communication remains dynamic, interactive and responsive to public concerns.

The Inspector General further highlighted that community engagement is central to crime prevention and public safety. He emphasized that the new strategy fosters stronger relationships between the police, stakeholders, and the communities they serve.

"Empowering citizens to actively participate in crime prevention is key. By strengthening partnerships and ensuring that the public is well-informed, we can create a safer Zambia together," he noted.

The strategy aligns with the 8th National Development Plan, reinforcing the principles of good governance, transparency and accountability as part of the Zambia Police Service’s commitment to upholding justice and public security.

UNDP Resident Representative, Mr. James Wakiaga, represented by UNDP Governance Advisor Mr Gregory Saili, reaffirmed UNDP’s commitment to supporting governance and institutional strengthening efforts in Zambia. 

"Strategic communication is a critical component of any institution and for law enforcement, it plays a vital role in building public trust," Mr. Wakiaga stated. He further highlighted how digital platforms such as the Public Events Management System (PEMS), recently introduced under UNDP’s support, serve as key tools for ensuring real-time engagement and transparency in police operations. As part of implementation of the new Strategy, UNDP is assisting Zambia Police Service with the development of a new interactive website.

Providing background on the strategy, Elections Committee Chairperson, Eng. Luvious Musonda-DCP, explained that its development was driven by the realization that the Zambia Police Service lacked a structured communication framework, often resulting in gaps in public information dissemination.

"This strategy was developed through a highly collaborative process, involving consultations with various police units, media experts, and key stakeholders. It provides a clear roadmap for improving information flow, utilizing modern communication platforms and responding effectively to public concerns," Eng. Musonda noted.

The strategy also emphasizes the need for digital transformation, including leveraging social media platforms and interactive websites to counter misinformation and provide accurate, timely updates on police activities.

The launch of this strategy marks a pivotal moment for the Zambia Police Service, positioning it as a more open, responsive and community-centered institution. As part of the strategy’s implementation, the Zambia Police Service will invest in capacity-building, digital tools and enhanced media engagement, ensuring effective communication between law enforcement and the public.

UNDP reaffirmed its continued partnership with the Zambia Police Service, with ongoing support that includes the development of a new official police website to further enhance public accessibility to law enforcement services.

As the Zambia Police Service embarks on this new journey, the commitment remains clear—fostering stronger relationships with communities, promoting transparency and ensuring a safer, well-informed Zambia.