MTN Foundation, in collaboration with the Maendeleo Foundation and other significant stakeholders, has officially launched the second edition of its Help Children Be Children campaign. This initiative underscores MTN Uganda’s firm commitment to safeguarding children in the digital space by promoting online safety and creating awareness of potential risks.
During the launch in Mukono, Leah Natukunda Kyanzi, MTN Uganda’s Senior Manager for Network Quality and Performance, emphasized the organization’s dedication to protecting children online.
“The internet is a gateway to endless opportunities for learning and growth but also presents unique challenges, particularly for children. At MTN Uganda, our vision of a modern, connected life comes with the responsibility to protect our youngest and most vulnerable users from online dangers. This campaign is an extension of our commitment to ensuring a safer digital environment for children,” she stated.
The Help Children Be Children campaign works closely with the Internet Watch Foundation (IWF) to reinforce the Africa-wide online child safety portal. This vital resource allows users to report instances of Child Sexual Abuse Material (CSAM) seamlessly. Accessible via the Child Online Protection Portal on MTN’s official website, the tool ensures a streamlined process for addressing harmful content.
MTN Foundation is making substantial investments in advanced technologies to proactively identify and prevent the dissemination of CSAM. In addition, it is conducting nationwide workshops aimed at equipping parents, teachers, and children with the necessary knowledge and tools to navigate the digital world safely.
These workshops, executed in collaboration with organizations like the Maendeleo Foundation, Smart Girls Foundation, Burn Radio, Pinkcode, Faces Up, and Internet Society Uganda Chapter, focus on:
- Teaching practical digital literacy skills.
- Enhancing understanding of online threats.
- Providing actionable strategies to mitigate risks.
Asia Komukama, Executive Director of the Maendeleo Foundation, praised MTN Uganda’s relentless efforts in protecting children in the digital era.
“This campaign isn’t just about addressing online safety challenges; it’s about building a future where children can thrive without fear. MTN’s unwavering support in realizing this vision is commendable,” Komukama remarked.
MTN Foundation continues to invest in state-of-the-art technology that proactively detects and prevents the spread of CSAM. This includes deploying innovative tools and resources to bolster child safety online.
MTN Uganda has reiterated its commitment to creating a safer digital environment for the next generation. According to the MTN representative, the journey to ensuring children enjoy the benefits of a modern connected life free from harm is ongoing.
“Our mission does not end here. Through initiatives like these, MTN Foundation will continue collaborating with partners and communities to protect children and foster a secure online world,” the representative stated.
MTN Uganda calls on everyone to actively participate in safeguarding children online. If you encounter suspicious activity, you are encouraged to report it immediately through the Child Online Protection Portal.
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