The Ministry of Labour and Social Protection, in partnership with stakeholders, has published a booklet entailing measures that seek to protect school-going children from online bullying.
State Department for Children Welfare Services Principal Secretary Carren Ageng’o said the move to author the guidelines was prompted by the abounding risks associated with child internet usage.
“As the Ministry of Labour and Social Protection, we recognize that the digital environment is rapidly evolving with serious child protection concerns. Child protection is one of our mandates, and as a State Department, we would like to ensure that all the children in Kenya are protected, both virtually and physically,” stated Ageng’o.
She added that a study by the Harm in Kenya Survey Report 2021 had indicated that 67 percent of children aged between 12 and 17 are internet users.
Ms Ageng’o made the remarks during the official launch of a guidebook for children on safe internet usage at the Kenya Institute of Curriculum Development.
The PS noted that the rise in internet usage by children has exposed them to unimaginable risks such as cyberbullying, sextortion and online radicalization.
“There are a lot of things that are happening on the internet. Online child sexual exploitation and abuse in our community is a growing threat to our children,” Ageng’o stated.
She said the development of the tool aligns with the government’s broader agenda of strengthening the child protection system and promoting child rights in all the settings.
The PS also revealed that the State Department will ensure the booklet is available to every child in the country.
“This booklet will enhance outreach efforts to educate our children to prevent, respond and support child online protection. As we launch this book, let us remember that the guidebook, no matter how well crafted, can only be impactful when put to use. Let us not just read it, but we must put it to good use by applying what you have read in the guideline and share it with other children,” she emphasized.
The Principal Secretary urged stakeholders, including parents and caregivers to listen, protect and prioritize the needs of their children.
“Let us not just launch it today, but let it be a reaffirmation of our commitment to listen to our children, protect them through our caregivers and give them a voice in the digital world,” Ms Ageng’o stated.
Speaking on behalf of children, Barack Malika, the Kenya Children Assembly leader, said although internet usage is vital in the competency-based curriculum, its continuous use has exposed the child to enormous threats.
“As we progress further into the 21st century, we must recognize that the internet is both a powerful tool and a potential threat. With every opportunity it brings for learning, connection, and creativity, there always exists a risk. In our modern age, children are more connected than ever, but the newfound freedom comes with an undeniable challenge such as cyberbullying, online predators and inappropriate content,” he said.
Malika challenged the government, parents, community members and caregivers to ensure that each and every child is safe online.
Other partners who aided the formulation and publication of the booklet include ChildLine Kenya, UNICEF, Child Fund and Life Skills Promoters.
By Wangari Ndirangu
