Facebook has announced a number of partnerships across Africa with more than 20 non-governmental organisations and government agencies, to raise awareness of emerging online issues and explore ways to make the internet safer for all
The announcement came during celebrating safer internet day (SID) under the connected theme of ‘Create, connect and share respect: A better internet starts with you.’
Launching a series of initiatives, including a specially created family-friendly animation which directs viewers to the Parent Portal in the Facebook Safety Centre, parents and caregivers can access a variety of information and tips on how to discuss issues of online safety with teens, developed in partnership with safety experts from around the world.
Commenting on Facebook’s work as part of SID, Akua Gyekye, public policy manager of Facebook in Africa, said, “Every day, millions of people across Africa come to Facebook to talk about their special moments and to stay connected with the people they care about. We recognise the important role we play in creating a better and safer online community for all, with this year’s growing partnerships across the continent further demonstrating our ongoing commitment to supporting organisations that raise awareness on these important issues.”
In Africa, Facebook is working with partners including Rudi International, Watoto Watch in Kenya, Malawi Internet Governance Forum, Women’s Technology Empowerment Centre in Nigeria, South Africa’s Film and Publication Board, JOXAfrica Association in Senegal, Tech Women Zimbabwe and J Initiative in Ghana to address the needs and ongoing education of various communities.
Lillian Kariuki, executive director at Watoto Watch Network, said, “In connection with the theme ‘create, connect and share respect,’ our focus this year is on cyberbullying. We’re working with Facebook to share messages that encourage positivity and respect on social media.”
Awo Aidam Amenyah, executive director at JI Initiative, added, “Resources and materials provided by Facebook as a partner help to empower our audience in Ghana on how to make the Internet better. We will continue to work hard in educating people to become good digital citizens.”
SID is celebrated in more than 100 countries and coordinated by the joint Insafe/INHOPE network, with the support of the European Commission, and national Safer Internet Centres globally.
