Botswana

Paratus Botswana Internet Safety Awareness

Paratus Botswana Internet Safety Awareness

Paratus Botswana has launched its online safety initiative for a second consecutive year, following its initial rollout in 2024. The initiative empowers parents, guardians, and children with essential knowledge and practical guidance to navigate the digital world responsibly. By addressing key issues such as online scams, cyberbullying, privacy and digital responsibility, the campaign aims to create a safer online environment for children. While technical measures, such as parental control tools, play a crucial role in protection, educating families and raising awareness are equally important to fostering digital resilience.

The initiative equips parents and caregivers with the tools to support their children’s internet use while encouraging responsible online behaviour. As part of the campaign, a series of social media tips are shared to guide parents and guardians through the challenges of raising children in today’s digital landscape.

A key component of the Paratus Botswana Internet Safety campaign is its sponsorship of the Just Kidding feature on Yarona FM. This interactive radio segment, aimed at children aged 7–12, delivers on-air safety tips through engaging discussions and quizzes, making internet safety concepts accessible and relatable for young audiences.

These efforts will culminate in an in-person presentation on online safety, where Paratus Botswana will host an industry expert to provide parents and stakeholders with critical insights. The session will cover:

  • International legal frameworks for child protection online
  • The legal age of criminal and civil responsibility
  • Criminal offences related to image-based abuse and cyberbullying
  • Privacy rights and the risks of defamation

The initiative also aligns with global Safer Internet Day. This year, Paratus Botswana has pledged BWP 10,000 in support of the Ministry of Communications and Innovation’s commemoration event on 11 February 2025 in Tshesebe.

Managing Director of Paratus Botswana, Shawn Bruwer, reaffirmed the company’s commitment: “As an internet service provider, we recognise our responsibility in promoting online safety. Children, as some of the most vulnerable internet users, need the right safeguards alongside digital access. That is why we are dedicated to equipping parents and caregivers with the knowledge needed to guide their children responsibly, contributing to a secure digital environment for all.”

In line with the ITU Child Online Protection Guidelines, Paratus Botswana has made a corporate commitment to children’s rights in the digital world. These guidelines take a comprehensive approach to online child protection, focusing on digital education, safety, and responsible online behaviour. By aligning with these principles, Paratus is helping to shape a more secure digital future for children in Botswana and beyond.

We commend the Ministry and industry stakeholders for their continued dedication to advancing online protection and promoting digital safety.”

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