BY NONTSETSELELO DLAMINI (INTERN)
MBABANE– The Royal Eswatini Police Service (REPS) has called on parents and guardians across the country to actively monitor their children’s online activities during the school holidays, warning that the internet can expose young users to various risks if left unchecked.
According to information shared on the REPS social media page, the appeal forms part of ongoing efforts to promote child safety and responsible digital use, especially during school holidays when children spend more time online.The message further stresses that parental involvement and open communication remain key in ensuring that children navigate digital spaces safely and responsibly.
Authorities are encouraging parents to set clear rules around screen time and internet use, including managing how long children spend online each day and guiding them on appropriate digital behaviour. They are also advised to review privacy settings on devices and applications to help protect personal information from misuse.
REPS also highlights the importance of parents being aware of who their children interact with on social media platforms, noting that some online users may not be who they claim to be. Guardians are further cautioned against allowing children to arrange or attend physical meet-ups with online acquaintances, as this may expose them to danger.
Parents are encouraged to make use of available digital safety tools such as parental control applications, which can help monitor activity and restrict access to inappropriate content. Ensuring that children engage with age-appropriate games and platforms is also emphasised as part of safeguarding their online experience.
The campaign also promotes community responsibility in protecting children, with the public urged to remain alert and report suspicious online behaviour. Initiatives such as #NaweUliPhoyisa continue to encourage citizens to play an active role in crime prevention and child protection.
As digital engagement continues to grow, REPS underscores that consistent guidance and active parental supervision remain essential in creating a safer online environment for children during the school holidays and beyond.
#ChildSafetyOnline #ChildSafetyAwareness #REPS
