African Governments Consider Social Media Delay to Protect Children
The Executive Director of Child Online Africa, Awo Aidam Amenyah, is calling on African governments to emulate Australia’s new legislation delaying social media access for children under 16, describing it as a vital move towards ensuring safer online experiences for the continent’s youth.
Mr. Amenyah clarified that the Australian policy isn’t a complete ban, but rather a deliberate delay intended to protect young people from the potential harms of premature exposure to the digital world.
According to a press statement released on Tuesday, December 9, delaying social media use allows children to cultivate crucial social skills, emotional strength, and critical thinking abilities before fully immersing themselves online.
He highlighted that extensive research demonstrates the vulnerability of children’s developing brains to addictive algorithms, cyberbullying, the spread of misinformation, and mental health issues like anxiety and low self-esteem.
The Australian framework mandates age verification systems for social media platforms, with parental consent required for users aged 13 and above. Mr. Amenyah lauded this as a balanced approach, safeguarding young users while empowering families with greater control.
He urged African leaders, including those in Ghana, to initiate discussions with parents, educators, technology experts, and child rights advocates to develop culturally appropriate policies that delay social media access for younger users.
“Africa has a unique opportunity to become a leader in digital child protection, just as Australia has done,” Mr. Amenyah emphasised. “Protecting our children’s digital futures is a collective responsibility.”
Child Online Africa is advocating for similar social media delays across the continent, stressing the need for inclusive consultations with key stakeholders. The organisation has also launched the AfricaESafetyNow campaign to push for urgent policy action.
The campaign aims to create safe, controlled, and age-appropriate online environments where children throughout Africa can thrive.
Image Source: MYJOYONLINE
