ZAMBIA: ZCCB Communications Calls for Responsible Broadcasting of Medical and Spiritual Claims

The Zambia Conference of Catholic Bishops (ZCCB) Communications Department has called on broadcasters to act more responsibly when airing programs and advertisements involving spiritual claims or unapproved medical products.

Speaking at a stakeholder engagement meeting with the Zambia Medicines Regulatory Authority and the Independent Broadcasting Authority, ZCCB Communications Officer Sandra Kunda said media content must be truthful, ethical, and respectful of human dignity. Kunda expressed concern that promoting unapproved medical products creates false hope for vulnerable people. She also noted that some content presents spiritual claims as guaranteed solutions for health, finances, relationships, or personal problems.

Kunda specifically highlighted commercial spiritual claims that promise to restore lost relationships, attract wealth, bring good luck, or provide supernatural solutions. She noted that these claims require careful consideration because they may encourage vulnerable individuals to pay for guaranteed supernatural outcomes. The ZCCB urged broadcasters to verify medical products and claims before airing them and to maintain a clear distinction between genuine faith-based messages and commercial or medical claims.