Thursday, 04 June

Govt to consider mandatory photo ID checks for pornographic websites — Sam George

News
Minister for Communication, Digital Technology and Innovation, Samuel Nartey George

Minister for Communication, Digital Technology and Innovation, Samuel Nartey George, has disclosed plans to introduce stricter age-verification requirements for access to adult websites in Ghana as part of efforts to shield children from explicit online content.

Under the proposed policy, users seeking to access pornographic platforms would be required to verify their age using a valid National Identity Card or Driver’s Licence before being granted entry.

Speaking at the Fourth Inter-Parliamentary Conference on Family, Values and Sovereignty, Mr. George said the initiative forms part of a broader strategy to enhance online child protection and encourage responsible use of digital platforms.

According to the Minister, government is exploring measures that will prevent minors from being exposed to sexually explicit material as internet access becomes increasingly widespread across the country.

He pointed to the United Kingdom’s age-verification framework for adult content websites as a possible model Ghana could adapt in strengthening its digital safety regulations.

Mr. George argued that growing concerns about the effects of pornography and the increasing sexualisation of young people make stronger safeguards necessary.

He revealed that the proposal will be submitted to Cabinet for consideration as part of ongoing discussions on child online protection policies.

The Minister cautioned that early exposure to explicit content could have adverse effects on the social development, values, and decision-making abilities of children.

He stressed that ensuring a safer digital environment for young people must remain a national priority as technology continues to play a larger role in everyday life.

Source: Classfmonline.com/Zita Okwang