Online Reporter
Zimpapers Writer
DEPUTY Minister of Information communication Technology, Postal and Courier Services Dingumuzi Phuti has warned that Zimbabwe is facing a surge in digital violence, abusive language and harmful online content, trends he says are being accelerated by monetisation features on social media platforms.
Addressing Senators on Thursday, Deputy Minister Phuti said the financial incentives offered by platforms such as TikTok were encouraging users to generate provocative or harmful content to attract views.
He noted that Zimbabwe had taken early steps to strengthen online safety frameworks, saying, “Zimbabwe is one of the countries that developed the Data Protection Act at the turn of 2021.”
He added that the country had also trained Data Protection Officers, a capability still uncommon across the continent.
Despite these efforts, Deputy Minister Phuti said many citizens remain unaware of their rights or the protections available to them under the law.
“Our people lack information and requisite knowledge on how to respond to cyberbullying and related issues,” he said.
He singled out TikTok as a platform where “very unpalatable language that does not protect our people, especially our children” is increasingly common.
Deputy Minister Phuti called for stronger enforcement mechanisms, improved digital literacy campaigns, and more robust public education around online safety.
“We cannot be a society that is porous and allows the flawless discharge of abusive language,” he said.
He also confirmed that the Ministry is finalising a Child Online Protection Bill, which aims to tighten regulations, enhance safeguards for minors and strengthen the country’s response to online harm.
