Facebook rallies partners to unite for a safer, better internet

The initiative, launched by Facebook in partnership with Safer Internet Day, aims to help make the internet a better and safer environment especially for youth and children.

Akua Gyekye, public policy manager Facebook, Africa says, “Nothing is more important to us than the safety of the people who use Facebook. Every day people come to Facebook to connect with people and issues they care about, and they should be able to do so in a safe, secure environment.”

Facebook promotes a safe and control experience online with privacy and security built into it to protect users information. In Africa Facebook is working with a variety of organisations to ensure the safety and education of their communities and address the needs of vulnerable people.

Lillian Kariuki, executive director at Watoto Watch Network, a partner of Facebook says, “The Internet brings offers great opportunities for Kenya’s youth and children. This year’s Safer Internet Day gives young people the opportunity to voice their views on how to make the internet better.”

Financial and marketing support is provided to organisations in a bid to build awareness across communities and Facebook also hosts events in Johannesburg, South Africa and Nairobi, Kenya to promote the importance of online safety to students, teachers, parents and policymakers.

Gyekye says: “This is an opportunity to explore the role we all play in helping to create a better and safer online community. We are proud to work with young people, parents, carers, teachers, social workers, law enforcement, companies, and policymakers to create a better internet.”