Government destroys pirated materials

Deputy Minister in the Ministry of Information and Broadcasting Services, Poniso Njeulu, says pirated audio visual products worth over K9 million have been seized
throughout the country this year.

Mr Njeulu says it is sad that the country has continued to be robbed of the needed revenue through piracy, adding that there is need for concerted efforts from all stakeholders if the fight is to be won.

He said government has declared a zero tolerance against piracy, adding that this will be achieved through the review of the Patents, Trademarks, and Companies Act and the introduction of the hologram, a security feature which by law should be affixed on all audio visual works for sale on the Zambian market.

ZANIS reports that the Deputy Minister said this during the destruction of pirated audio visual products worth over K2 million in Mansa.

Mr Njeulu has since commended law enforcement agencies for working tirelessly in stamping out piracy.

Earlier, Luapula Province Minister, Benson Kapaya, commended the Ministry of Information and Broadcasting Services for intensifying the fight against piracy in the country.

Gen Kapaya observed that Luapula Province has talented individuals in various arts disciplines who, if protected, can contribute significantly to job and wealth creation in the country.

He said this in a speech read for him by Luapula Province Assistant Secretary, Joshua Kamanya.