Staff Reporter
The Postal and Telecommunications Regulatory Authority of Zimbabwe (Potraz) has committed to taking strong measures against escalating issues of hate speech and cyberbullying.
During yesterday’s launch of the Child Online Safety Survey, Director General of Potraz Dr. Gift Machengete, highlighted the urgent need to tackle the rampant spread of such malicious activities, especially on social media platforms like X.
"Cyberbullying and hate speech are quite rampant these days on X. Cyberbullying on X is now unbearable. It cannot be allowed to continue," Dr Machengete remarked.
The Potraz Director General assured that his organisation would act decisively against those disseminating hate speech and engaging in cyberbullying.
According to Dr Machengete, Utilizing the Cyber and Data Protection Act of 2021, Potraz aims to protect citizens' privacy and reduce internet abuse.
The act grants Potraz the authority to oversee data collection, protection, storage, and presentation, ensuring that personal information is handled lawfully and transparently.
Meanwhile a bid to promote safe use of technological gadgets, Potraz has implemented a telecommunications traffic monitoring system that tracks mobile phone traffic in real-time.
This technology not only helps monitor the revenue generated by operators but also plays a crucial role in identifying and addressing instances of cyberbullying and hate speech.
Technology expert, Webster Mutiwekuziva said that the rise of digital technologies has not only increased the prevalence of cyberbullying and hate speech in Zimbabwe but also across the African continent.
“Cyberbullying can lead to severe consequences such as depression, loss of self-esteem, infringement of freedom of expression and association, and in severe cases, even death. A 2019 UNICEF poll revealed that one in three young people in 30 countries reported being victims of online bullying, with one in five skipping school due to cyberbullying and violence. Similarly, the impacts of hate speech can deeply harm psychological well-being and emotional stability, while also undermining individuals' reputation and dignity,” said Mutiwekuziva.
Through its proactive measures, Potraz is taking crucial steps to create a safer online environment, protecting not only Zimbabweans but also setting a precedent for global online safety.
By leveraging technology and enforcing pertinent legislation, Potraz is aiming at shielding individuals, particularly children, from the detrimental effects of online abuse and harassment.
