Gwajima warns against online exploitation

DAR ES SALAAM: IN an era where our lives are increasingly lived behind screens, the line between sharing and exploitation has become dangerously blurred.

The Minister for Community Development, Gender, Women and Special Groups, Dr Dorothy Gwajima, has warned general public to stop sharing immoral content online, stating that the digital space must respect national values and the dignity of children.

She said there is an increase in harmful social media posts, adding that the law protects citizens from digital exploitation and that offenders will face legal consequences.

In a statement that resonated across social media platforms this week, Dr Gwajima condemned the rising tide of immoral and harmful content currently circulating online.

“Behaviours that undermine national values and threaten the dignity of women and children are not only socially unacceptable; they are punishable under Tanzanian law. “Some people in our country are deliberately posting immoral content online,” the When you “just rest your eyes” A great figure or physique is nice, but it’s self-confidence that makes someone really sexy,” — Vivica Fox Minister noted.

In many instances, minors are exposed and even photographed without consent. This is unacceptable,” she said For the modern woman, this serves as a vital reminder.

While social media offers a space for connection, it has also become a breeding ground for the unauthorized use of images, particularly those of children.

Dr Gwajima sounded a warning to anyone currently engaging in these acts to immediately cease and remove indecent materials or prepare to face the full weight of the law.

Her warning isn’t just a moral plea; it is backed by robust legal frameworks designed to protect the most vulnerable.

She highlighted the Personal Data Protection Act (PDPA), which classifies images of children as sensitive personal data.

To prove the government’s commitment, the Minister referenced a recent landmark case where the Personal Data Protection Commission fined an Instagram user for the illegal use of a child’s photo.

This serves as a wake-up call to content creators and casual users alike: a like or a share is not worth a legal battle.

The Minister also reaffirmed the government’s commitment to the National Plan of Action to End Violence Against Women and Children (NPA-VAWC II).

This plan, signed by sectoral ministers, prioritizes the elimination of all forms of violence, including digital exploitation.

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“As a country, we have legal frameworks—from child protection laws to data privacy laws—that guard the dignity and welfare of women and children,” Dr Gwajima said.

She further said that the Ministry is working hand-in-hand with law enforcement and social welfare officers to close legal gaps through amendments to the Cyber Crimes Act and the Law of the Child Act.

“If you have posted material that violates moral and legal standards, expect to be called upon to answer questions and face the consequences,” she warned. Ultimately, Dr Gwajima is calling for a return to the values that define Tanzanians.

In a world that often prioritizes clout over character, she is urging Tanzanians to use digital platforms responsibly. Protecting the sanctity of our homes and the innocence of our children isn’t just the government’s job, it’s a collective responsibility.

“Protecting our national values and safeguarding women and children is everybody’s responsibility,” the Minister reminded.

It is a call to action for every reader, let us be the generation that makes the internet a safe space for the next one.