Child rights group urges Ghana to ban social media for under-17s

A child welfare advocacy group in Ghana has called on the government to introduce legislation restricting access to social media platforms for children under the age of 17, citing growing concerns about exposure to harmful online content.

Child Rights International said the proposed legislation should require digital platforms operating in Ghana to implement robust age-verification systems, backed by penalties for companies that fail to comply.

The call follows a study by the organisation which found that many children have unrestricted access to social media and are increasingly exposed to harmful online trends, misinformation and age-inappropriate content.

The research, which surveyed children aged between five and 12, examined patterns of screen use, access to online content and experiences in the digital environment.

According to the findings, around 80% of children reported spending between two and seven hours a day on screens, often without consistent parental supervision. Mobile phones and tablets were identified as the primary devices used to access online content and social media platforms.

The study found that many children navigate websites, applications and social media platforms without adequate safeguards, exposing them to material considered inappropriate or potentially harmful.

Child Rights International said one of its most concerning findings was the increasing exposure of children to sexual content and online exploitation risks. The organisation reported instances of sexual invitations, inappropriate messages and exposure to explicit material among the most common harmful interactions experienced by children online.

The report also highlighted concerns about algorithm-driven recommendations and online advertisements, which it said can expose children to unsuitable content, particularly when they use devices belonging to adults.

Researchers further identified a link between excessive screen time and reduced participation in outdoor activities, social interaction and family engagement.

The organisation warned that unchecked digital consumption could have long-term implications for children's development, mental health and social wellbeing.

As part of its recommendations, Child Rights International urged parents and caregivers to take a more active role in monitoring children's online activities through parental controls, content filters and age-restriction settings. It also called for clear limits on screen time and greater efforts to promote responsible digital behaviour.

The group further urged law enforcement agencies to strengthen efforts to investigate and respond to cases of online child sexual abuse and exploitation.

Commenting on the findings, Executive Director Bright Appiah said technology remained an important tool for education and development, but argued that stronger child protection measures were needed to ensure children could benefit from digital opportunities safely.

The recommendations come amid growing international debate over the impact of social media on children and the role governments should play in regulating young people's access to online platforms.