First Lady Rachel Ruto calls for Safe Digital Systems to protect children

Mama Rachel Ruto, Kenya's First Lady, has urged for enhanced safeguards and joint efforts to safeguard children in the digital realm. While recognizing the advantages of technology in revolutionizing children's education and social interactions, she cautioned that the rapid pace of digital advancement should never supersede child protection.

Mama Rachel addressed this issue during her participation in the Invisible Architecture Forum, alongside child-protection advocates, technology professionals, and civil society representatives at the United Nations Headquarters in New York, which is currently hosting the 81st Session of the UN General Assembly (UNGA 81).

"Protecting children in the digital age is a shared responsibility," she emphasized, underlining the necessity for collaboration among governments, technology corporations, parents, educators, and international partners to ensure that every child can benefit from online learning, exploration, and growth without compromising their safety. She cautioned that even within the perceived safety of their own homes, children remain vulnerable to online threats, one digital interaction at a time.

In light of this, Kenya's burgeoning digital prospects must be paralleled by a commensurate dedication to child safety, dignity, and privacy. Through the Voice of Children Initiative, Kenya is actively promoting the principles of Provision, Protection, and Participation by guaranteeing children's access to digital opportunities, safeguarding them from online harm, and providing them with a genuine say in matters that influence their digital existence.