Rwanda could become the latest country to ban social media for children under 16 if a new government bill currently being drafted is enacted, a senior official has revealed.

Appearing on the Rwanda Broadcasting Agency on Wednesday, Minister for ICT and Innovation Paula Ingabire said the proposed law will protect children from the harmful effects of social media content.

Ms Ingabire said a recent study found that 30-35 per cent of pupils experience anxiety linked to digital distractions on social media platforms.

She also noted that about 46 per cent of schoolchildren access online platforms via mobile phones, often without adequate parental supervision.

Highlighting the harmful effects, Ingabire said the design of digital platforms encourages prolonged use, which can distract children and affect their return to conventional learning.

She added that social media use has been shown to reduce students’ attention in class, making it difficult for some learners to complete assignments due to poor concentration.

On implementation, the minister said the government is banking on Rwanda’s new digital ID system to help enforce the proposed restrictions once they take effect. She said relevant institutions are collaborating on drafting the legislation, while public awareness campaigns are underway to explain the importance of limiting children’s social media use and the role of parents in enforcement.

The minister added that the ban is expected to be more effective through cooperation with internet service providers.

According to her, the proposed measure is part of broader government efforts to reduce the negative impacts of technology on society.

• A Tell Media / Xinhua report