First Lady Mama Rachel Ruto has emphasized the urgent need for enhanced safeguards and collaborative efforts to protect children in the online space.
While she recognizes the transformative power of technology in enriching children’s learning and connections, she firmly stated that advancements in the digital realm must not outpace the imperative of child protection.
Mama Rachel shared these insights during her participation in the Invisible Architecture Forum, where she engaged with child-protection leaders, technology experts, and representatives from civil society to discuss the creation of safer digital systems for children.
“Protecting children in the digital age is a collective responsibility,” she declared at the United Nations Headquarters in New York, coinciding with the 81st Session of the UN General Assembly (UNGA 81).
“No nation can tackle this challenge in isolation. It’s essential for governments, technology companies, parents, educators, and international allies to unite in ensuring that every child can learn, explore, and thrive online while maintaining their safety. Progress must never come at the expense of protection,” she added.
The First Lady reminded attendees that even a child in the safest room at home can face online dangers, one tap at a time.
“Kenya’s expanding digital landscape must be matched by a robust commitment to child safety, dignity, and privacy,” she urged.
Through the Voice of Children Initiative, Kenya is championing the principles of Provision, Protection, and Participation, ensuring that children not only have access to digital opportunities but are also shielded from online harm and empowered to have a meaningful voice in decisions that shape their digital experiences.
