THE Zambia Information and Communications Technology Authority (ZICTA) has told Airtel Networks Zambia Plc to compensate customers affected by the data recent service outage.
According to the authority the data affected disruption hit Lusaka, Southern, Western, Central, and Eastern Provinces on Sunday, February 2, 2025.
The disruption, which lasted for an excruciating five hours left thousands of users without internet access which caused frustration among businesses, students and social media enthusiasts. 
In response, ZICTA ordered Airtel to refund affected consumers in line with the Consumer Protection Guidelines with an estimated compensation valued at K4 million.
ZICTA gave Airtel until February 28, 2025 to fix its shaky network infrastructure and ensure that future Sundays are not ruined by another data apocalypse.
The authority in a statement, tasked Airtel with putting mechanisms in place to prevent recurring network outages and ensuring strict adherence to consumer protection regulations.
ZICTA Corporate Communications Manager Hanford Chaaba assured the public that the authority remains committed to protecting consumers and ensuring reliable communication services.
“The Authority assures the public that corrective measures are being undertaken to prevent future occurrences,” said Chaaba.
