…AS SHE UNVEILS LINE-UP OF ACTIVITIES TO MARK 30 YEARS OF LAW REFORM
By Innocent Siachitoba
The Director of the Zambia Law Development Commission (ZLDC), Mrs Hope M. N.Chanda, has reaffirmed that public participation is central to effective law reform in Zambia.
Speaking on Sky FM on Wednesday, 21st January 2026, at 09:00 hours, Mrs Chanda explained that public participation helps ensure that laws are practical, fair, and responsive to everyday realities in people’s lives. She noted that when citizens share their experiences and views, laws become easier to understand, apply, and comply with.
Mrs Chanda said that the Commission is currently reviewing the Rent Act and the Landlord and Tenant (Business) Premises Act, and the Sale of Goods Act, among other laws, and encouraged members of the public and stakeholders to take part in the reform processes by making submissions on the laws under review.
She also shared that the Commission has lined up a series of activities to commemorate its 30th anniversary since it was established in 1996, under the theme “ZLDC@30.” She explained that the activities are intended to reflect on lessons learnt over three decades of law reform while responding to emerging national needs in areas such as health, governance, and development.
Among the planned activities is the ZLDC@30 Marathon, which aims to raise awareness on law reform while promoting healthy lifestyles. Mrs Chanda explained that funds raised from the marathon will support the translation of selected pieces of legislation into local languages to enhance public understanding and access to the law.
She further indicated that the Commission will organise a Parliamentary Model United Nations Conference targeting learners and young people, providing a platform to debate issues of law and development while building parliamentary, diplomatic, and critical thinking skills.
Mrs Chanda added that the Commission will convene the Third National Law Conference, focusing on its 30-year law reform journey, key milestones, and future directions. She also noted that the Commission will roll out radio discussion programmes across various radio stations to engage the public on topical legal issues and ongoing law reform initiatives.
Mrs. Chanda urged citizens to stay informed and engaged by following the Commission’s communication platforms, including Facebook, X (formerly Twitter), and other official channels, where updates and calls for submissions are regularly shared.