Government has postponed the highly anticipated RightsCon 2026 global summit, which was scheduled to take place in Lusaka from May 5 to 8.
Minister of Technology and Science Felix Mutati announced the decision, citing incomplete security clearances and the need for further consultations.
“In particular, certain invited speakers and participants remain subject to pending administrative and security clearances, which have not yet been concluded,” Mutati said in a statement.
He explained that proceeding with the conference without completing these processes would not align with Zambia’s regulatory framework and responsibilities as a host nation.
The event, RightsCon 2026, is a major international platform focused on digital rights and innovation, expected to attract over 5,000 delegates from more than 150 countries, including policymakers, technology leaders and civil society organisations.
Mutati stressed that the postponement is procedural and does not reflect any withdrawal from Zambia’s commitment to digital development or international cooperation.
A new date for the summit will be announced after further consultations with stakeholders and partners.
This is why international events should never organize a summit in Zambia… it is a joke to tell 5000 people who already have plane tickets and hotel rooms planned, that they have to “postpone” when the conference is only five days away. Hundreds of thousands of dollars will be lost by people. No conference will ever organize itself in Zambia again if this happens. This is so unprofessional and a real embarrassment for the government.
Can the hospitality industry and airlines explain the hit that Zambia’s tourism sector is going to get?
Massively embarrassed to be Zambian right now. After convincing my organisation in Europe to attend and this is what we get? A big loss on credibility of lusaka hosting any international convening if this doesn’t go through
It is very sad and leaves an extremely bad impression of the Zambian government, at a time it rather needs solidarity against the US demands of handing over mineral mining rights.
The odds that any conference organizer recommending an international conference will recommend Zambia as a venue just went to zero. What a blow to tourism and hospitality providers who could benefit from showcasing Zambia.