African First Ladies have called for a united and collective approach to protect children in the rapidly growing digital world, warning that technology and artificial intelligence are exposing young people to new online risks.
Speaking during a high-level discussion on children’s online protection, the leaders emphasized that safeguarding children in digital spaces should not be left to governments alone, but must involve parents, schools, technology companies, and communities.
The discussions come at a time when internet access among children continues to rise across Africa, with smartphones, social media, gaming platforms, and AI tools becoming part of everyday life. While digital platforms offer opportunities for learning and creativity, leaders warned that children also face dangers such as cyberbullying, exploitation, harmful content, misinformation, and online predators.
Rachel Ruto stressed the importance of balancing digital access with stronger safety measures, noting that technology is now deeply embedded in how children learn, communicate, and express themselves. She highlighted Kenya’s efforts to promote digital literacy, strengthen online protection laws, and integrate technology into education safely.
The leaders also called for responsible use of artificial intelligence, stronger online safety policies, and increased awareness among parents and teachers on how to guide children in digital spaces.
Experts say the conversation is becoming more urgent as children spend more time online than ever before. Studies and policy reports in Kenya have already warned about increasing exposure to cybercrime, exploitation, online violence, and unsafe digital interactions among young users.
The renewed push reflects growing concern across Africa that while the digital revolution creates opportunities for education and innovation, child safety must remain a priority as technology continues to evolve.
Speaking during a high-level discussion on children’s online protection, the leaders emphasized that safeguarding children in digital spaces should not be left to governments alone, but must involve parents, schools, technology companies, and communities.
The discussions come at a time when internet access among children continues to rise across Africa, with smartphones, social media, gaming platforms, and AI tools becoming part of everyday life. While digital platforms offer opportunities for learning and creativity, leaders warned that children also face dangers such as cyberbullying, exploitation, harmful content, misinformation, and online predators.
Rachel Ruto stressed the importance of balancing digital access with stronger safety measures, noting that technology is now deeply embedded in how children learn, communicate, and express themselves. She highlighted Kenya’s efforts to promote digital literacy, strengthen online protection laws, and integrate technology into education safely.
The leaders also called for responsible use of artificial intelligence, stronger online safety policies, and increased awareness among parents and teachers on how to guide children in digital spaces.
Experts say the conversation is becoming more urgent as children spend more time online than ever before. Studies and policy reports in Kenya have already warned about increasing exposure to cybercrime, exploitation, online violence, and unsafe digital interactions among young users.
The renewed push reflects growing concern across Africa that while the digital revolution creates opportunities for education and innovation, child safety must remain a priority as technology continues to evolve.
