Impact Amplifier, in collaboration with Google.org's financial backing, proudly announced the launch of the African Online Safety Platform (AOSP)

Impact Amplifier, in collaboration with Google.org's financial backing, proudly announced the launch of the African Online Safety Platform (AOSP) .* 

Nairobi,  February 7, 2024. 

By MAXIMILLA WAFULA & Patrick KIMANZI 

County Diary News 

To mark the Annual Safer Internet Day (Tuesday, 6 Feb 2024), Impact Amplifier launched the Africa Online Safety Platform with support by Google.org.  Panelists, who are also beneficiaries of Africa Online Safety Fund, took part. From (L-R) Craig Rosewarne, Managing Director, Wolfpack Information Risk, Dr Camaren Peter, Executive Head, Centre for Analytics and Behavioural Change, Martha Sunda, Executive Director, Childline Kenya, Dennis Ratemo, Kenya Country Programme Manager, Terre des Hommes Netherlands, and panel moderator, Tanner Methvin, Director, Impact Amplifier.

This groundbreaking initiative aims to tackle various challenges within the African internet safety landscape. AOSP is envisioned as a comprehensive solution, transcending the limitations currently impeding online safety efforts across the continent.

A critical issue hindering progress is the absence of a centralized repository for the wealth of online safety research conducted in Africa. AOSP aims to bridge this gap by providing a rich repository of research, education content, funding opportunities, and avenues for seeking help after an online crime. This multifaceted approach reflects Impact Amplifier's commitment to addressing online safety at a systemic level.

The platform addresses the complexity of online safety challenges specific to different parts of Africa. It offers guidance on keeping everyone, especially young people, safe online, integrating formal online safety education in schools and homes, and highlighting funding opportunities for safety innovators. Additionally, AOSP serves as a vital resource for seeking assistance in the aftermath of online crimes or violations.

Dr Alistair Mokoena, Google SA Country Director, (pictured centre) at the launch of the Africa Online Safety Platform with support by Google.com in Johannesburg on 6 Feb 2024, which marked Safer Internet Day (Tuesday, 6 Feb 2024).  Panelists from Kenya were (from left) Martha Sunda  Executive Director, Childline Kenya and Dennis Ratemo, Country Programme Manager Kenya, Terres des Hommes Netherlands participated in the event.

A key component of the launch event was a panel discussion featuring Impact Amplifier's grantees, representing online safety innovators from South Africa and Kenya. The panelists, including Craig Rosewarne and Camaren Peter from South Africa, and Dennis Ratemo and Martha Sunda from Kenya, emphasized the importance of tailored solutions suited to local contexts in Africa.

Google SA Country Director, Dr. Alistair Mokoena, reaffirmed their commitment to supporting the online safety ecosystem in Africa. He encouraged stakeholders to utilize the platform as a valuable resource for education and research and to apply for the available funding opportunities.

Tanner Methvin, Director of Impact Amplifier, highlighted the significance of prioritizing online safety concerns in a continent where over 570 million people have internet access. The platform, according to Methvin, offers innovative approaches to address a spectrum of safety issues, from combating misinformation and cybercrime to supporting journalists facing online harassment. The launch of AOSP version 2.0 signifies a sustained commitment to safeguard vulnerable populations from online harms and ensure the continent reaps the benefits of the internet.

In conclusion, the African Online Safety Platform emerges as a pivotal initiative, fostering collaboration, research, education, and funding to fortify Africa's online safety landscape. With a focus on local nuances and a commitment to sustained support, AOSP aims to create a safer digital environment for all.

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