As internet access continues to expand across Africa, children are increasingly vulnerable to digital risks such as online predators, cyberbullying, and more. In response, African governments are taking steps to safeguard their youth and equip them with the tools to navigate the digital world safely.
Recent research indicates a rise in internet usage among young people across the continent, though the rates vary significantly by country. In Eastern and Southern Africa, for example, 65% of children aged 12-17 have accessed the internet in the past three months. However, this figure ranges from only 25% in Ethiopia to a high of 81% in Namibia, as reported by Safe Online.
To address these concerns, organizations like the Ghana Internet Safety Foundation (GISF) are actively working to protect children online by providing education and advocacy on digital safety.
In an enlightening discussion with African Currents, Emmanuel Adinkra, President and Founder of GISF, spoke about his organization’s efforts to shield young users from online dangers. He also highlighted the broader efforts underway in Ghana and across Africa to create a safer internet for all users.
“In Ghana, there are ongoing initiatives to integrate online safety into the school curriculum. However, this is a challenge due to the significant financial resources required, from drafting legal frameworks to curriculum development and adoption,” Adinkra explained. “It’s a work in progress, not just in Ghana but also in many other African countries. Kenya, South Africa, Nigeria, Uganda, Zimbabwe, Morocco, Egypt, Tanzania, Namibia—these nations are all making meaningful strides in ensuring children’s protection online.”
To hear more insights from Emmanuel Adinkra, be sure to tune into the African Currents podcast, brought to you by…