Government Approves E-commerce Bill

By Lerato Ndlovu

Government has approved the Principles for the Electronic Transactions and Electronic Commerce Bill, which were presented by the Minister of Information Communication Technology, Postal and Courier Services, Honourable Dr. Jenfan Muswere.

Addressing the media Minister Information Publicity and Broadcasting Services Hon Monica Mutsvangwa said “The nation is being informed that the development of information communication technologies in cyberspace requires that the legal and policy environment be adapted to take into account the relevant changes.

“In particular, there is need for a holistic electronic transaction regulation regime in the face of the opening up of markets and movement of goods and services across borders, and growing incidences of scams and unfair practices, which leave the end-user at risk.”

The Electronic Transactions and Electronic Commerce Bill is expected to adjust the country’s legal framework to technological changes and address current deficiencies in most of the country’s existing laws.

“The Electronic Transactions and Electronic Commerce Bill will therefore first and foremost attune the country’s legal framework to technological changes by addressing the current deficiencies in most of the country’s existing laws, which were designed for paper-based transactions.

“The Bill will promote and advance the business environment in Zimbabwe by establishing a legislative framework that enables fair, accessible, responsible and sustainable online transacting. while in whole or in part, consolidate and harmonise existing electronic transactions-related legislation, such as the Consumer Contracts Act [Chapter 8:03],” said Mutsvangwa.

The key issues in the Bill are the use and regulation of electronic contracts and electronic transactions, as it will establish a predictable, accessible, safe and transparent online trading environment, which is necessary for e-commerce to flourish.

It will also result in business innovation, while simultaneously empowering consumers supported by well-resourced, effective and efficient regulatory institutions.