Published on , 9 Nov, 2026

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

ZUT HACKERTRONS CROWNED NATIONAL CHAMPIONS AT 2026 DIGITAL SAFE ADVERS-AI CYBERSECURITY COMPETITION

9th November, 2026
Lusaka

The Zambia University College of Technology has recorded a historic achievement after its cybersecurity team, Hackertrons, emerged as overall national champions of the 2026 Digital Safe Advers-AI Capture The Flag (CTF) Competition, held on 31st October, 2026 at the University of Lusaka (UNILUS), Silverest Campus, Lusaka.
The five-member team secured K20,000 in prize money, while team captain Bibusa Nkolomba was named Top Hacker of the Competition, earning an additional K6,000 and bringing the team's combined winnings to K26,000.

The victory marks a significant milestone for ZUT, which has participated in the national competition for approximately four years, consistently reaching the finals but falling short of the championship.
This year, Hackertrons competed against participants from approximately 16 universities across Zambia. The team finished third in the online preliminary round held on 19th September, 2026, securing a place among the 10 universities that qualified for the national grand finale.

Following a series of demanding cybersecurity challenges that tested technical expertise, critical thinking and teamwork, Hackertrons emerged victorious, securing first position nationally.
The winning team comprised Bibusa Nkolomba (Team Captain), Obby Kalaluka, Mainza Namangani, Shadrick Chabala and Kabunda Katanga.

The students were accompanied by Mr. Dowson Sikute and Mr. Malambo, members of staff from the ICT Department's Cybersecurity section, who provided mentorship and technical support throughout the team's participation.

Five additional ZUT students, including first-year students, accompanied the team as supporters. Their participation provided valuable exposure to competitive cybersecurity and inspired interest in future competitions.

A notable aspect of the team's preparation was the development of KopaXploits, a student-built cybersecurity practice platform designed to support practical learning and skills development.

Accessible at https://kopaxploits.com , the platform provided Hackertrons with an opportunity to strengthen their technical competencies through continuous practice and problem-solving ahead of the competition.
Reflecting on the achievement, team captain Bibusa Nkolomba attributed the victory to sustained preparation, teamwork and the support received from fellow students and mentors. He also acknowledged the contribution of KopaXploits to the team's readiness.

The achievement highlights the ability of ZUT students to apply classroom knowledge in developing practical technological solutions while strengthening their competencies in cybersecurity.

The University further acknowledges the support provided by ZUT Management, under the leadership of the Acting Vice Chancellor, Dr. Betty Shitima Bweupe, whose encouragement and commitment contributed to the team's preparation and successful participation.

ZUT's contribution to the event extended beyond the competition, with Mr. Sikute, participating as an invited speaker. He delivered a presentation titled “Behind the Digital Evidence: The World of Digital Forensics,” highlighting the importance of digital forensics in modern cybersecurity practice.

The national championship represents an important milestone in ZUT's efforts to promote practical, industry-relevant education, innovation and technological excellence.

As Zambia continues to advance its digital transformation, the achievement underscores the role of higher learning institutions in developing skilled cybersecurity professionals capable of protecting digital infrastructure, responding to emerging cyber threats and contributing to national development.

The University congratulates Team Hackertrons on this historic achievement and commends all students and members of staff whose dedication contributed to the national victory.

Issued by:
Emmanuel Musaluka MZIM,
Marketing and Business Development Manager,
Zambia University College of Technology.