By Business Insider Reporter
As internet access and social media use continue to expand across Tanzania, media professionals have been challenged to play a leading role in protecting children from the growing risks associated with the digital world.
The call was made during a two-day training programme for journalists and children’s programme producers in Dar es Salaam, where stakeholders emphasized the need for stronger public awareness on online child protection and digital safety.
Speaking at the opening of the training, Prudence Constantine (pictured above), an official from the Tanzania Journalists Accreditation Board (JAB), said journalists have a critical responsibility to educate parents, guardians and communities about the opportunities and dangers that accompany increased internet usage among children.
He noted that while advances in information and communication technology have significantly improved access to education, information, entertainment and business opportunities, they have also exposed children to a range of online threats.
“Media practitioners are uniquely positioned to help society understand how children can use digital platforms safely and responsibly,” he said. “They can also raise awareness about the risks children face when using online platforms without adequate supervision.”
Growing digital access, growing risks
According to Prudence, a 2022 survey involving children aged between 12 and 17 revealed that 67 percent of Tanzanian children use the internet, with popular platforms including Facebook, Instagram, WhatsApp, TikTok and Telegram.
While digital connectivity has opened new opportunities for learning and communication, the study also highlighted growing concerns about online safety.
The findings showed that some children had encountered various forms of online abuse, including cyberbullying, threats, fraud and attempts by strangers to persuade them to share inappropriate images.
The trends underscore the urgent need for preventive measures, public education and stronger awareness campaigns to help children navigate the digital environment safely.
Media’s role in protecting children
Participants at the training were reminded that the media can serve as a powerful tool in promoting responsible internet use and helping families understand emerging online threats.
Prudence said journalists should use their platforms not only to report incidents but also to provide practical guidance on online safety, digital literacy and child protection.
He added that the Government has continued strengthening child protection systems through legal reforms, including amendments to child protection laws and implementation of the National Plan of Action to End Violence Against Women and Children.
Shared responsibility
Representing the Tanzania Communications Regulatory Authority (TCRA), Broadcasting Services Officer Octavian Peter stressed that safeguarding children online cannot be left to government institutions alone.
He noted that social media and digital platforms have become an integral part of children’s daily lives, making collaboration among multiple stakeholders increasingly important.
“The responsibility of protecting children online requires the collective efforts of parents, guardians, schools, development partners, media organisations and regulators,” he said.
According to Octavian, TCRA will continue promoting safe technology use through public education campaigns and partnerships with various stakeholders.
He said strengthening digital awareness is becoming increasingly important as children gain access to smartphones, social media and other internet-enabled technologies at younger ages.
Building a digitally safe generation
Chairing the training, Sabina Mpelo of the Tanzania Broadcasting Corporation (TBC) said journalists have a unique role in shaping a generation that uses technology responsibly and productively.
She noted that while social media platforms can be valuable tools for learning and accessing information, they can also expose children to significant harm if used without proper guidance and oversight.
Sabina urged participants to apply the knowledge gained during the training to develop content that promotes children’s rights, online safety and responsible digital behaviour.
“We must ensure that technology serves as a tool for development rather than a source of harm,” she said.
As Tanzania’s digital economy continues to expand, experts say the conversation around online child protection is becoming increasingly important. For media organisations, the challenge now is to ensure that public awareness keeps pace with technological change, helping parents and children navigate the digital world safely while maximising its benefits. The training marks another step in ongoing efforts to build a safer digital environment for children and strengthen public understanding of online safety in an increasingly connected society.
