This archive report was first published on 13 August 2019.
Kenya's rapid growth in internet penetration has created a new challenge: online child trafficking. According to the Communications Authority, criminals are targeting minors using social media sites like Facebook and Instagram.
As of 2018, cyber threats in Kenya had grown by more than 20 percent, with businesses reporting losses in the billions of shillings each year. Security agents are now battling a new phenomenon: child traffickers.
Kenya became the first country in Africa to sign the Child Online Protection charter in May 2018, developed by the United Nations to protect children from online criminals. However, child abuse remains a global issue, with perpetrators working in networks across different countries to evade authorities.
The Communications Authority is working with various industry players to strengthen cyber security regulations in the country. Partners include the Department of Children Services, The Cradle, and mobile service providers Orange, Airtel, and Safaricom.
Kenya's laws also provide protection for children. Article 29 (D) of the Constitution states that every person has the right to freedom and security, including the right not to be subjected to torture. The Children's Act No. 8 of 2001 makes provision for parental responsibility, fostering, adoption, and the care and protection of children.
