Rwanda is preparing to take a new step in digital regulation. The government is considering banning access to social media for children under the age of 16, a measure championed by the Minister of ICT and Innovation, Paula Ingabire.
The draft law aims to prevent minors from creating accounts or accessing platforms such as Facebook, Instagram, and YouTube. Its implementation would rely on close cooperation between internet service providers, tech companies, and parents, supported by a national digital identification system designed to verify users’ ages.
This initiative is based on concerning data. According to a national study, nearly 46% of students already use digital services via mobile phones, often without supervision. Additionally, between 30% and 35% of young respondentsreport difficulties linked to social media use, including attention disorders and anxiety.
The reform builds on existing public policies, particularly the national child online protection strategy adopted in 2025. This framework предусматривает stronger regulation of digital content and increased collaboration with platforms to limit exposure to harmful material. Rwanda also has a solid legal framework for cybersecurity and data protection, including specific provisions for minors.
Beyond Rwanda’s borders, similar momentum is growing across Africa. Several countries, including Gabon, Zimbabwe, and Nigeria, are considering or implementing restrictions on minors’ access to social media. Egypt is also exploring regulatory options in this area. These initiatives are part of a broader movement, supported notably by the African Union, aimed at strengthening child safety in the digital environment.