Stakeholders Emphasize Safe Digital Environment for Children at Cyber Awareness Event
S.O.S Childrens programs director and officials highlight the importance of promoting awareness on safe access to cyberspace for children.
MZUZU, MALAWI — An event promoting awareness of safe digital access for children was held at Mzuzu Stadium on July 22, 2023, as part of the commemorations of the International Day of Children in Adversity, writes Tionge Hara.
The event was organized by S.O.S Children's Programmes, a non-governmental organization that works to protect children's rights.
The event aimed to address the growing issue of cybercrimes that affect vulnerable children.
Cybercrimes can include online bullying, grooming, and sexual exploitation. They can have a devastating impact on children's mental and emotional health.
During interviews with the media, S.O.S Children's Programmes Director George Kondowe stressed the importance of teaching children life skills related to safe internet usage.
He urged parents to introduce their children to appropriate and secure online platforms to mitigate the risks of cybercrime.
The District Child Protection Committee chairperson for Mzimba North and Mzuzu City, Evans Katsilizika Mwale, echoed Kondowe's sentiments, emphasising the need to provide children with access to information.
While acknowledging the educational value of the internet, he acknowledged that children often come across inappropriate content.
Mwale emphasised the role of regulators in assisting children in navigating the online world.
The District Commissioner of Mzimba North and Mzuzu City, Rodney Simwaka, who was also a guest of honour at the event, supported Mwale's statements.
In his speech, Simwaka emphasised the seriousness of cybercrimes and the importance of enforcing laws to combat them.
He called for collaboration among stakeholders to ensure that children have safe and regulated access to the Internet.
The event served as a platform for stakeholders to advocate for a safe digital environment for children and to encourage parents and educators to be proactive in educating children about online safety.