Airtel Uganda Takes Stand Against Cyberbullying to Safeguard Children Online

Airtel Uganda has reaffirmed its commitment to protecting children from online harassment, emphasizing that digital safety must remain a national priority as more young people access the internet. The pledge was made during a virtual engagement held in recognition of World Children’s Day, where students, teachers and child-protection organisations came together to discuss the growing threat of cyberbullying.

During the discussion, several students shared personal experiences of both physical and online bullying. Some spoke about being mocked for their appearance, while others described cases of cyber-stalking, public humiliation and threatening messages. Many of the young participants admitted that children often remain silent about such abuse because they fear backlash or believe reporting will not help. Speakers at the event noted the urgent need for safe and anonymous reporting channels to encourage more victims and witnesses to come forward.

Airtel Uganda used the platform to outline its commitment to supporting a safer digital environment. The telecom company pledged to continue investing in technologies that can help detect or prevent online abuse, and to work closely with schools, child-safety groups and ICT regulators to strengthen digital-literacy campaigns. Airtel also urged parents and teachers to become more involved in monitoring how children use the internet, guiding them on privacy, responsible online behaviour and what to do when they encounter harassment.

Participants at the event reminded the public that Uganda’s Computer Misuse Act already criminalises cyber harassment, meaning offenders can face fines or imprisonment. They stressed that legal protection must go hand in hand with awareness, community support and active engagement from both families and institutions.

While Airtel’s renewed commitment was widely welcomed, experts emphasized that more work needs to be done. They called for stronger digital-literacy programmes in schools, greater investment in counselling services for affected children and consistent enforcement of existing laws. Community involvement was highlighted as a critical factor in breaking the silence around bullying and making sure children feel safe to speak out.

As Uganda’s digital landscape continues to expand, stakeholders agree that safeguarding young internet users requires concerted effort. Airtel’s move signals a growing recognition that protecting children online is not just the responsibility of families, but a shared duty across the entire community.