The GSMA, in collaboration with MTN Group and the United Nations Children’s Fund (UNICEF), has called for stronger cooperation between governments and the private sector to protect children from online risks across Africa.

With more children gaining internet access—often via mobile phones—the GSMA warned that the region’s rapid digital growth has increased children’s exposure to cyberbullying, harmful content, and online exploitation.

In response, the GSMA on Monday released a new whitepaper titled “Enhancing Child Online Protection in Sub-Saharan Africa.” Launched at the Ministerial Programme during MWC25 Barcelona, the report outlines key recommendations for governments, regulators, tech companies, civil society, and young people to create a safer digital space for children.

The whitepaper draws on regional data, including findings from IPSOS research commissioned by MTN Group. It also includes contributions from 19-year-old youth advocate Jemima Kasongo from the Democratic Republic of Congo, who called on stakeholders to act decisively to protect African children online.

Among the report’s recommendations are the development of child- and youth-centered policies, stronger alignment with the African Union’s Child Online Safety and Empowerment Strategy, broader digital literacy efforts for children and families, and deeper public-private partnerships to expand protective tools and services.

Angela Wamola, GSMA Head for Sub-Saharan Africa, described child online protection as a collective responsibility.

> “By working together, we can ensure that the digital environment becomes a place of opportunity, not risk, for Africa’s children,” she said. “This whitepaper is an important step toward supporting all stakeholders across the region.”
While the report focuses on Africa, Wamola said it aligns with the GSMA’s global commitment to including youth voices in digital policy and solution design.

UNICEF Regional Child Protection Advisor for Eastern and Southern Africa, Nankali Maksud, noted that children under 18 make up half of Africa’s population. She stressed that online protection is both a rights issue and an investment in the continent’s future.

> “UNICEF looks forward to co-hosting a taskforce with GSMA to advance the whitepaper’s recommendations,” she added.
MTN Group’s Executive for Sustainability and Shared Value, Marina Madale, cited alarming statistics from recent IPSOS research in Nigeria, South Sudan, and Zambia—where one in 10 children reported experiencing online harassment.

> “Despite awareness of risks, many young people still engage in unsafe online behaviour,” Madale said. “This highlights the urgent need for education and awareness initiatives.”
Madale also emphasized the growing complexity of online threats, especially with the rise of Artificial Intelligence and the Internet of Things, calling for stronger legal frameworks and coordinated action.

To help implement the report’s proposals, GSMA and UNICEF will co-lead a new regional taskforce that brings together governments, industry leaders, and civil society partners.