The CA said it continues to lead a national movement to safeguard the digital rights and well-being of children by integrating Child Online Protection into cultural and educational platforms like the Kenya Music Festivals.
Child
Online Protection theme has taken centre stage at the onset of the
ongoing Kenya Music Festivals in Meru, setting the tone for a spirited campaign
on digital safety for children.
As digital access deepens across the country,
the Communications Authority of Kenya (CA) is leading efforts to raise
awareness on responsible internet use through creative arts.
With
digital technology now woven into daily life, more children are going online
using digital devices often without proper guidance or supervision.
A recent
Child Online Protection Report by the Communications Authority of Kenya reveals
that over 80 per cent of children aged 8 to 17 in Kenya use the internet, with
60 per cent accessing it through smartphones. Worryingly, more than half have
encountered at least one online risk, including cyberbullying, exposure to
harmful content, and other digital threats.
The
Communications Authority has been a key sponsor of the Kenya Music Festivals,
particularly championing compositions and performances that spotlight digital
safety, responsible internet use, and child empowerment in the online space.
“As a
teacher, I’ve seen firsthand how powerful music and art can be in shaping young
minds,” said a teacher at the PCEA Kagema Primary School. “I truly appreciate
the government’s efforts, especially through these festivals, which not only
help students grow their talents but also create a meaningful platform to teach
them about staying safe online.”
The authority
has sponsored special classes and performances themed around child online
safety. Learners have showcased creative dramatised verse, choral verse, and
solo performances that highlight digital threats and propose ways to mitigate
them. The most outstanding presentations will receive awards and ICT gadgets to
continue championing safe internet use in their schools and communities.
The CA said it continues to lead a
national movement to safeguard the digital rights and well-being of children by
integrating Child Online Protection into cultural and educational platforms
like the Kenya Music Festivals.
The Authority urged parents, educators,
policymakers, and technology providers to work collaboratively in creating a
secure and empowering online environment for Kenya’s future generation.