By Mfanufikile Khathwane (Intern)
MBABANE – During the ESCCOM Launch of the Eswatini Children Online Protection Strategy, the Deputy Prime Minister’s Office called on parents, educators, and communities to take an active role in shielding children from online dangers, as internet access and digital device usage continue to grow among young people.
Speaking on behalf of the Deputy Director at the National Children’s Services Department, Sibongile Dlamini emphasized that Eswatini has strong legal frameworks designed to protect children. These include the Children’s Protection and Welfare Act of 2012, the Sexual Offences Act, and the Trafficking Act of 2019.
These laws support the country’s commitment to international treaties such as the UN Convention on the Rights of the Child and the African Charter on the Rights and Welfare of the Child.
“We recognize that while online learning has increased access to education, it has also opened doors to harmful online content,” said Dlamini.
She stressed the importance of parental controls and digital literacy to help children navigate the internet safely. The Children’s Act, often referred to by stakeholders as their guiding tool, calls for collaboration among community leaders, law enforcement, social workers, and the judiciary to ensure every child is protected.
The government has also implemented the 116 Child Helpline, designed for the public to report child abuse and exploitation. Plans are underway to expand this service to operate 24/7, ensuring help is always available.
Noris Mangulana Chirwa, speaking during the same session, expressed concern over online behaviours that put children at risk such as sharing inappropriate content, engaging in harmful relationships for financial gain and striving for popularity on social media through dangerous means.
Both speakers agreed on the importance of educating children about responsible digital behaviour and equipping caregivers with tools to monitor and guide online activity.
Together, they called for a united front to ensure the digital world becomes a safer space for every child in Eswatini.