Ministry, Lifeline/Childline sign agreement to curb child porn

The information and communication technology ministry recently signed a memorandum of understanding with Lifeline/Childline Namibia in support of the latter's online platform where child pornography and sensitive visual material in which children appear can be reported.

"This portal allows anyone to report digital materials that abuse children with a view to combating cybercrime. When it is reviewed and the content is found to be inappropriate, the material is then removed from online platforms. We have noticed that the platform, since its launch, has not been used as planned," executive director Audrin Mathe said.

The director of Lifeline/Childline Namibia, Nicolette Bessinger, added that the majority of children may be exposed to sexual exploitation and abuse online. Research by Disrupting Harm has shown that 81% of Namibian children between the ages of 12 and 17 are internet users. Of these, 56% are online every day - mainly for schoolwork, social media and communication.

"While many children seem to be aware of the online risks, they still communicate with strangers online or share nude photos or videos of themselves," Bessinger said.