UNICEF and New York City Launch National Initiative to Protect Children Online and Combat Misinformation

Gambia Launches Forum on Digital Safety for Youth as Online Risks Grow

The National Youth Council of The Gambia, in collaboration with UNICEF and other partners, has convened a significant two-day forum focused on internet safety and responsible digital engagement among young people. The event brought together representatives from government ministries, mobile network operators, U-Reporters, journalists, UN agencies, and development partners to address the growing challenges of youth digital engagement in an increasingly connected world.

At the heart of the forum was the launch of a global U-Report poll titled “Life Online: Children and…” The survey, created with input from young people worldwide, aims to capture their experiences, challenges, and opportunities in the digital space. The initiative reflects growing concerns about online safety for youth as internet penetration continues to rise across Africa.

Participants engaged in capacity-building sessions focused on digital safety, youth empowerment, and responsible communication. A high-level panel discussion explored the theme “Smart Tech, Safe Choices – Exploring the Safe and Responsible Use of AI,” examining the roles of industry, government, and young people in promoting online protection and ensuring responsible use of emerging technologies like artificial intelligence.

Speaking at the opening ceremony, Alagie Jarju, Executive Director of the National Youth Council, highlighted the dual nature of internet access for young people. “We have seen how the internet is impacting our lives. It offers opportunities for learning, but it also poses risks,” he said, while commending U-Report ambassadors for their efforts in promoting safer and more positive online cultures.

Jarju emphasized that virtually every action in today’s world leaves a digital footprint, making responsible online behavior increasingly important. He reaffirmed the Council’s commitment to continued partnership and advocacy for safe internet usage among children and youth throughout The Gambia.

The Gambian government is taking concrete steps to address digital misinformation. Ebrima Sankareh, representing the Minister for Information, Media and Broadcasting Services, revealed plans to launch a dedicated center to monitor, verify, and fact-check information circulating on social media platforms. The initiative aims to ensure the public has access to accurate content in an era where false information can spread rapidly.

Sankareh also disclosed that the ministry, working alongside the Information Commission, recently conducted a nationwide sensitization campaign about the dangers of misinformation and the importance of responsible digital engagement. Such efforts are particularly crucial in The Gambia, where mobile internet usage has expanded dramatically in recent years while digital literacy education has struggled to keep pace.

The government representative expressed gratitude to UNICEF and its partners for leading this initiative, noting that such engagements play a vital role in educating children and young people on how to use the internet positively while protecting themselves from potential online harm.

The timing of this forum is significant, as West African nations face increasing challenges with online misinformation and digital safety concerns. Young people represent the most active demographic online but often lack adequate knowledge about data privacy, digital footprints, and online security measures.

The two-day event is expected to strengthen coordination among various stakeholders while amplifying youth voices in developing policies and practices that promote a safer digital environment in The Gambia. By bringing together government officials, technology companies, media representatives, and youth advocates, the forum represents a comprehensive approach to addressing digital safety challenges.

As internet connectivity continues to expand across The Gambia and neighboring countries, initiatives like this highlight the growing recognition that digital literacy and online safety must be prioritized alongside infrastructure development to ensure young people can benefit fully from digital opportunities while minimizing potential harms.