Source: New framework targets online sexual exploitation, cyberbullying of children – herald
Harmony Agere
CABINET has approved the Zimbabwe National Child Online Protection Policy (2026-2030), a framework designed to safeguard children from online sexual exploitation, cyberbullying, and other digital threats while enabling them to benefit from the opportunities presented by Information and Communication Technologies (ICTs).
This is the first national framework that addresses online child protection.
The policy was presented to Cabinet today by Vice President Dr Kembo Mohadi in his capacity as chairperson of the Cabinet Committee on Social Development.
In a post-Cabinet briefing this afternoon, Government said the policy seeks to provide a coordinated national response to growing online risks facing children.
“The Zimbabwe National Child Online Protection Policy (2026-2030) provides a national framework to safeguard children in the digital environment while ensuring that they benefit from opportunities offered by Information Communication Technologies (ICTs),” reads the statement.
“While the internet presents enormous opportunities for children, it has inadvertently increased children’s exposure to online sexual exploitation and abuse, cyberbullying, harmful content, grooming, sexual exploitation and privacy violations.”
Government said the policy will guide the Government, the private sector, academic institutions and communities in protecting children online.
“Against this backdrop, the policy will ensure that all decisions and matters relating to children’s experience in the digital space are aligned with the Constitution of Zimbabwe and the Children’s Act [Chapter 5:06],” reads the statement.
The policy is anchored on nine strategic focus areas, that is institutional capacity, legal and regulatory framework, prevention, response and support mechanisms, technical control and corporate responsibility, education, public awareness and communication, research and development, global cooperation, leadership and monitoring, evaluation and learning.
According to Government, each of the pillars is supported by specific policy actions aimed at achieving the intended objectives.
Cabinet also indicated that legislation will be introduced to strengthen the protection of children in the digital environment.
“Meanwhile, Government exhorts communities, parents and guardians to play a central role in monitoring the activities of children while they are online.”
Information, Communication Technology, Postal and Courier Services of Zimbabwe Minister Tatenda Mavetera said the policy will go a long way in ensuring that children use social media responsibly.
“As Government, we have come up with mechanisms on how to monitor what children do online and ensure they use it responsibly,” she said.
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