Mbabane, Eswatini – The Ministry of ICT, in collaboration with the Eswatini Communications Commission (ESCCOM) and UNESCO, has launched a groundbreaking public awareness campaign to combat cybercrime and empower the youth across the country. The initiative, set to kick off in October 2024, is aimed at tackling the growing issue of cyberbullying and enhancing the prevention of cybercrime among adolescents and young people in Eswatini.

With over E700,000 in funding support from UNESCO, the campaign will not only focus on raising awareness but also on building the capacity of teachers, parents, and schools to respond effectively to cybercrime incidents. By strengthening the knowledge and tools available to these key groups, the campaign aims to create safer digital environments for young people.

Speaking at the launch, representatives from ESCCOM emphasized the importance of proactive efforts to address the increasing threats posed by cybercrime, particularly to vulnerable young people who are increasingly active online. “This campaign is about empowering our youth to navigate the digital world safely while providing schools and families with the resources to support them,” an ESCCOM official noted.

The campaign will run until 2026, with an additional focus on improving policies and legal frameworks to better protect adolescents and young people in school settings. This long-term effort will ensure that Eswatini’s educational institutions are equipped to address the ever-evolving challenges of cybercrime.

As part of the launch, a series of public workshops and school-based programs are planned throughout the country to engage with students and educators directly.