Children under the age of 16 could soon face tighter controls on social media use in Malawi as government moves to shield them from cyberbullying, online exploitation and harmful digital content.
Minister of Gender, Children, Disability and Social Welfare Mary Navicha says Malawi is considering measures similar to those being introduced in the United Kingdom, where authorities are tightening restrictions on children’s access to social media platforms.
Navicha made the remarks in Parliament while responding to an urgent matter raised by Mzimba West Member of Parliament Aeckim Kumwenda, who raised concerns over increasing suicide cases in his constituency. She said the growing crisis requires new approaches, including addressing challenges linked to the digital environment.
Kumwenda told Parliament that his constituency had recorded more than 10 suicide deaths in the past six months, with four cases reported within a 48-hour period in Traditional Authority Mpherembe. He said the deaths had created fear among communities and called for immediate government intervention through awareness campaigns and psychosocial support.
In response, Navicha said suicide is a serious national concern and urged people facing emotional and personal difficulties to seek help instead of suffering in silence. She encouraged Malawians to access support from social welfare officers, health workers, traditional leaders and other community structures.
The minister said her ministry is implementing programmes that encourage men and boys to discuss their challenges openly, including male engagement initiatives aimed at creating safe spaces for conversations and support.
Navicha further said addressing suicide and related social challenges requires cooperation among several government institutions. She said her ministry is engaging the Ministries of Health, Justice, Homeland Security and Information to develop coordinated responses.
She highlighted cyberbullying as one of the issues contributing to mental health challenges and said Malawi will examine the possibility of introducing legal measures similar to those adopted elsewhere to protect children online. Navicha said Parliament has a duty to consider laws that promote the safety and wellbeing of citizens.
The minister’s comments come amid growing international efforts to regulate children’s access to social media platforms. She said Malawi will continue exploring interventions that protect children and young people while promoting safer digital spaces.
