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Child online protection takes centre stage at ongoing music festivals

Half of Kenyan children who accessed the internet have encountered at least one online risk, including cyberbullying and harmful content

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by STAR REPORTER

Health12 August 2025 - 14:33
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In Summary


  • With digital technology now woven into daily life, more children are going online using digital devices often without proper guidance or supervision.
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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.

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