As internet access and smartphone use continue to expand among young Basotho, Econet Telecom Lesotho (ETL) is strengthening its child online protection initiatives, saying greater digital connectivity must be accompanied by education, awareness and responsible online behaviour.
The telecommunications operator said protecting children in the digital space has become increasingly important as more young people rely on the internet for learning, communication and social interaction.
ETL believes safeguarding children online is a shared responsibility that requires the combined efforts of parents, schools, regulators, communities and the private sector.
The company’s initiative aligns with the Lesotho Communications Authority’s Child Online Protection Guidelines, which encourage mobile network operators to promote online safety awareness, improve digital literacy and help create a safer online environment for children.
ETL General Manager for Legal and Regulatory Affairs, Karabo Tlhoeli, said child online protection remains central to the company’s commitment to responsible digital connectivity.
“At ETL, we strongly believe that every child should be able to enjoy the opportunities of the digital world safely. As technology becomes part of everyday life, our responsibility extends beyond providing connectivity to empowering children, parents and communities with the knowledge to navigate the online world responsibly,” Tlhoeli said.
He said while the internet has become an essential tool for education, innovation and communication, it has also exposed children to a growing range of online risks, including cyberbullying, online grooming, identity theft, harmful content and digital scams.
To address these challenges, ETL is expanding public education and awareness initiatives aimed at promoting responsible digital citizenship among children, parents, guardians and educators.
“Awareness is one of the strongest forms of protection. Children need the confidence to recognise online risks, while parents need to remain actively engaged in their children’s digital lives. Technology cannot replace parenting, but it can support informed families in creating safer online experiences,” he said.
Tlhoeli said ensuring children’s safety online requires collective action from all stakeholders.
“Government, regulators, schools, parents, communities and industry all have a role to play. By working together, we can create a digital environment where children are free to learn, innovate and thrive safely,” Tlhoeli added.
The renewed awareness drive comes as Lesotho continues to advance its digital transformation agenda, with internet connectivity playing an increasingly important role in education, business and the delivery of public services.
Through the initiative, ETL aims to encourage safer internet use while equipping children and their caregivers with the knowledge needed to navigate the digital world responsibly.
Summary
- The telecommunications operator said protecting children in the digital space has become increasingly important as more young people rely on the internet for learning, communication and social interaction.
- The company’s initiative aligns with the Lesotho Communications Authority’s Child Online Protection Guidelines, which encourage mobile network operators to promote online safety awareness, improve digital literacy and help create a safer online environment for children.
- He said while the internet has become an essential tool for education, innovation and communication, it has also exposed children to a growing range of online risks, including cyberbullying, online grooming, identity theft, harmful content and digital scams.
Seabata Mahao is a general news reporter with special focus on Business and Sports. Started working at Newsday in 2021. Working in a team with a shared goal is what I enjoy most and that gives me the motivation to work under any environment leading to growth.
