The United Nations Children’s Fund (UNICEF) Ghana has raised concerns over children’s safety online after more than 51,000 reports related to child sexual abuse material were linked to Ghana in 2025.
The figures, shared by the US-based National Center for Missing and Exploited Children, represent a significant increase from the 750 reports recorded in 2016, highlighting growing concerns about technology-facilitated sexual exploitation and abuse of children.
Speaking at a Child Online Protection and Digital Parenting Forum organised by the Cyber Security Authority as part of the 2026 National Cyber Security Awareness Month, UNICEF Ghana Child Protection Specialist Miho Yoshikawa called for stronger efforts to safeguard children in the digital environment.
She acknowledged the opportunities technology offers children but warned that increased online engagement also exposes them to significant risks.
“While acknowledging the positive opportunities the internet offers, children also face significant risks of harm online. For instance, the US-based National Center for Missing and Exploited Children shared more than 51,000 CyberTipline reports in 2025 related to child sexual abuse material being accessed, shared or produced from Ghana. This represents a substantial increase from 750 reports in 2016 to more than 51,000 in 2025,” she said.
Ms Yoshikawa stressed the need for countries to strengthen child protection measures as internet connectivity expands and technology continues to evolve.
She also highlighted the role of parents and caregivers in preventing online abuse, noting that they need relevant information and support to identify risks and keep children safe.
According to her, the WeProtect Model National Response emphasises the importance of equipping parents and caregivers to protect children from technology-facilitated sexual exploitation and abuse.
The forum formed part of broader efforts to promote child online safety and encourage digital parenting practices that help children navigate the internet more safely .
