Zimbabwe is developing an Online Child Protection Policy aimed at regulating children’s access to social media platforms and strengthening cyber safety as digital adoption expands.

Zimbabwe’s government is developing an Online Child Protection Policy aimed at regulating children’s access to social media platforms as concerns grow over the misuse of digital technologies and exposure to harmful online content.

The proposed policy framework will introduce guidelines on responsible online behaviour, limit access to inappropriate digital content and equip parents and guardians with tools to monitor children's activities on internet platforms.

The initiative comes as Zimbabwe accelerates digital adoption across education, government services and community programmes.

Government Moves to Strengthen Online Child Safety

Speaking during a Digital Ambassadors Programme event in Karoi, Information Communication Technology, Postal and Courier Services Minister Tatenda Mavetera said the policy is being crafted to protect young people as access to digital technologies continues to expand nationwide.

“As government, we have a responsibility to ensure that while citizens benefit from digital technologies, our children remain protected from the dangers that exist online,” she said.

“We are therefore in the process of crafting an Online Child Protection Policy that will guide how children interact with digital platforms, including restricting access to social media for those below the age of majority.”

The policy will also promote cyber safety awareness and provide parents with the knowledge needed to supervise children's online activities more effectively.

Mavetera added that the initiative forms part of broader efforts to ensure technology is used responsibly while promoting digital inclusion across the country.

“Our thrust as government is to promote digital inclusion while safeguarding the wellbeing of young Zimbabweans,” she said.

Digital Skills Programmes Expanding Nationwide

The proposed framework comes as Zimbabwe continues rolling out digital literacy initiatives such as the Digital Ambassadors Programme, which is designed to train communities in using modern technologies safely and effectively.

Government officials say these programmes are essential as internet penetration and smartphone usage continue to rise across the country.

Public Welcomes Child Protection Initiative

Members of the public have welcomed the proposed policy, saying it will help protect children from the risks associated with unsupervised internet use.

One parent attending the programme said young children now gain access to smartphones and social media platforms at increasingly early ages.

“I believe this is an important move by government because many children now have access to smartphones and the internet at a very young age. Without proper control they can easily be exposed to harmful content,” the parent said.

Another guardian said the policy would help families manage how children use digital platforms.

“Social media can be useful, but it also has many risks for young children. This policy will help parents and guardians guide how children use the internet safely,” the guardian said.

Provincial Leadership Backs Digital Safety Efforts

Mashonaland West Minister of State for Provincial Affairs and Devolution Marian Chombo said safeguarding children in the digital environment remains a key government priority.

“As technology becomes more accessible, it is important that policies and programmes are put in place to protect children while still allowing them to benefit from digital learning opportunities,” she said.

Chombo added that initiatives such as the Digital Ambassadors Programme play a critical role in empowering communities with digital knowledge while encouraging responsible use of technology.

Zimbabwe Set to Launch National AI Strategy

Meanwhile, President Emmerson Mnangagwa is expected to officially launch Zimbabwe’s National Artificial Intelligence Strategy later this week.

The strategy forms part of the country’s broader plan to accelerate digital transformation and build a modern technology-driven economy.

Officials say the AI strategy will guide the development, governance and adoption of artificial intelligence technologies across key sectors of the economy.

Reporting by Tamuka Charakupa | Adapted for Granite Post