We’ll ensure a safer internet environment for children, women — Gender Minister

The Minister for Gender, Children and Social Protection, Dr. Agnes Naa Momo Lartey, says government is committed to ensuring a safer internet environment for children, especially girls, amid the rising use of digital platforms.

She observed that the internet is fast becoming an integral part of daily life for many young people, particularly girls and women, offering opportunities in education, health, marketing, entertainment and socialization.

However, speaking at the commemoration of the World Telecommunication and Information Society Day 2025 on Monday, May 19, Dr. Lartey warned that these same digital spaces expose girls to online risks, including cybercrime and evening grooming them to perpetuate cybercrime.

“Inasmuch as the digital environment has become invaluable in the lives of girls and women, they can be lured into becoming victims of cybercrimes or groomed to become perpetrators themselves. This calls for stricter attention from caregivers, duty bearers, and the government,” said the minister.

To address the challenge, the Minister disclosed that the National Cyber Security Centre now has a dedicated Child Online Protection department tasked with safeguarding children in the digital space.

“The government, through the Ministry of Communications, Digital Technology and Innovation, has established the National Cyber Security Centre, and appointed a National Cybersecurity Adviser to coordinate cybersecurity efforts across all sectors,” she said.

“These actions led to the creation of a Child Online Protection department with a clear mandate to protect, monitor and ensure a safer internet environment for children,” added the minister.

She said the Ministry of Gender is supporting this initiative through a partnership with the Ghana Education Service’s Guidance and Counselling Unit, reaching more than 7,000 students and teachers in selected senior high schools through regional sensitisation events.

Dr. Lartey further noted that over 40,000 students and teachers across all 16 regions have also been sensitised during National Cyber Security Awareness Month celebrations in recent years.