Accra, Ghana - 6 July 2026 Child Online Africa is urging policymakers, media outlets, and the public to use clear, accurate, and honest language when discussing measures designed to protect children online.

“If the goal is to delay children’s access to harmful social media platforms until they are older and better equipped, it should be described exactly as what it is: a child protection measure,” said Awo Aidam Amenyah, Executive Director, Child Online Africa. “Calling such measures, a ‘ban’ when they are in fact age-appropriate delays can create unnecessary ambiguity, mislead the public, and undermine informed debate on children’s online safety.”

The organization emphasizes that children’s safety, wellbeing, and healthy digital development must remain the priority. Transparent and responsible public communication is essential to building broad support for effective, evidence-based policies.

“Softening or exaggerating language only fuels confusion,” the organization added. “Honest terminology strengthens trust and helps policymakers design solutions that truly serve the interest of children.”

Child Online Africa remains committed to advocating for clear policies and practices that create a safer digital environment for children across the continent.

About Child Online Africa Child Online Africa is a Ghana-based organization dedicated to protecting children from online harms while promoting responsible digital citizenship and healthy technology use across Africa.

For media inquiries, contact: Frevious Owusu Baafi, Officer Child Online Africa Email: [info@childonlineafrica.org] Phone: [+233 571000005 Website: www.childonlineafrica.org