Tanzania Launches Comprehensive Child Online Protection Initiative

The Tanzanian Ministry of Community Development, Gender, Women, and Special Groups has taken a significant step towards safeguarding children in the digital realm by establishing a national advisory council and launching the Child Online Protection (COP) campaign. This initiative aims to raise awareness about the various cyber threats faced by children and educate key stakeholders on their roles in ensuring online safety.

The COP campaign is set to unfold over the course of one year, utilising electronic, print, outdoor, and online media platforms to disseminate information. The focus extends beyond awareness-raising, with a commitment to reviewing existing child-related laws and regulations to enhance protective measures.

Dorothy Gwajima, Minister of Community Development, Women, and Special Groups, emphasised the importance of parental supervision in the digital age. She urged parents or guardians to limit children’s screen time, especially on television, to mitigate the risk of addiction. Gwajima stressed the need for close supervision to prevent children from engaging in potentially harmful online networks.

Citing research conducted in collaboration with UNICEF in 2022, Minister Gwajima highlighted the prevalence of internet use among Tanzanian children aged 12 to 17, with 67% accessing the internet. Alarmingly, 4% of these children reported experiencing various forms of online violence. This underscores the urgency of the COP campaign in addressing the challenges posed by the digital landscape.

Raphael Charles, Chairman of the Children’s Council of Tanzania, echoed the sentiment, encouraging children to adhere to guidelines set by parents and guardians when using social networks. His emphasis on responsible online behavior aligns with the global challenge of child online protection, requiring a comprehensive approach that identifies risks, raises awareness, develops practical tools, and shares knowledge.

In recognition of Tanzania’s proactive stance, BBC Swahili praised the government’s initiative to protect children online. The COP campaign signifies a holistic strategy encompassing awareness, legal review, and technological controls to create a safer online environment for children.

The launch of the Child Online Protection campaign reflects Tanzania’s commitment to addressing the evolving challenges of the digital era, ensuring that children are equipped with the knowledge and support needed to navigate the online world securely. As the campaign unfolds, it presents an opportunity for various stakeholders to actively participate in shaping a safer online landscape for Tanzanian children.

Additionally, UNICEF Tanzania’s involvement in preventing and responding to online child sexual exploitation and abuse complements the government’s efforts. Through initiatives such as the Child Online Safety Task Force, UNICEF is working to enhance the capacity of frontline service providers and communities, emphasising the need for a collective effort in safeguarding children online.