Nairobi, April 28 -- In recent weeks in the United States, major technology companies including Meta and YouTube have been found negligent for knowingly designing platforms that harm children's mental and physical wellbeing.

These rulings mark a significant shift in accountability and show a growing willingness to challenge technology companies that prioritise engagement over safety.

While much of this legal reckoning is happening in the US, another front in the fight to protect children online is rapidly emerging. Africa is home to the world's youngest and fastest growing digital population.

In 2024, an estimated 53 per cent of young Africans aged 15-24 were online, a figure that is only rising each year. Increased connectivity is bri...