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Creating a Safer Online Environment for Malawian Children: A Call to Action

February 7, 2024

Written by Sellah Singini - MANA
Creating a Safer Online Environment for Malawian Children: A Call to Action
Creating a Safer Online Environment for Malawian Children: A Call to Action
The Malawi Communications Regulatory Authority (MACRA) has urged all stakeholders in the country to come together and forge a global alliance aimed at crafting a digital agenda that prioritizes safety and inclusivity for children. Speaking at the Bingu International Convention Center in Lilongwe during the commemoration of Safer Internet Day, MACRA Director General Daud Suleiman emphasized the need for collective action to empower children in the digital sphere. Suleiman highlighted this year's theme, "Inspiring Change? Making a Difference, Managing Influence and Navigating Change Online," which seeks to boost digital literacy and promote good cyber hygiene among young people. He emphasized the importance of equipping children with the necessary skills to navigate the online world safely and securely, stating, "Digital literacy is an entitlement for all young people in this increasingly digital culture." The theme also addresses young people's perspectives on emerging technologies and encourages them to leverage the internet for positive change. Suleiman stressed the need to safeguard children from various online threats, including sexual exploitation and cyberbullying, while ensuring their voices are heard in shaping online safety measures. MACRA's efforts include the development of a National Child Online Protection Strategy (2023-2028) aimed at creating a safe digital environment and addressing potential online threats and harms faced by children. Suleiman reiterated the strategy's goal of empowering children in the digital space and providing them with a secure online environment. Senior Superintendent Gladwell Kubwalo, Head of Digital Forensics and Cyber Crimes Unit at the Malawi Police Service, highlighted the prevalence of cybercrimes targeting youths, particularly young women. He emphasized the importance of sensitization campaigns to educate young women on staying safe online. In summary, stakeholders in Malawi are urged to collaborate in developing a safe and inclusive digital agenda for children, emphasizing the need for digital literacy, cyber hygiene, and proactive measures to protect children online. As Suleiman emphasized, "It is a call for all of us to protect them from sexual exploitation, cyber bullying and the misuse of their private information.