The Inland Waters Shipping Act. Cap 466 of 1967 and the Merchant Shipping Act Cap. 468 of 1969 (Temporary Provisions) of the Laws of Zambia are two pieces of legislation that govern the Maritime and Inland Waterways transport subsector in Zambia.

The Inland Waters Shipping Act. Cap 466 was enacted to regulate the use and safety of ships operating on Zambia’s inland waterways. It aimed to establish licensing, vessel registration, safety standards and navigational rules.

The Merchant Shipping Act Cap. 468 of 1969 (Temporary Provisions) was introduced as a temporary measure to address specific issues related to merchant shipping including vessel registration, safety and maritime safety regulation pending comprehensive legislation. Over time, it has become outdated and less aligned with modern maritime practices.

Over the years, the Maritime and Inland Waterways transport subsector has undergone significant changes, driven by advances in technology, changes in global trade patterns and shifts in consumer preferences. However, the Inland Waters Shipping Act. Cap 466 of 1967 and the Merchant Shipping Act Cap. 468 of 1969 (Temporary Provisions) of the Laws of Zambia have not kept pace with these changes. As a result, the Laws are no longer effectively regulating the Maritime and Inland Waterways transport subsector, and there are concerns that they maybe inconsistent with international best practices currently being promoted by the International Maritime Organization (IMO).