written by Alice Njoki
On February 10, 2026, we will be bringing together around 500 children from different schools in Nairobi to gather at Mbagathi Girls School for the Safer Internet Day 2026 Children’s Townhall. This is an open forum where children come to share their ideas, ask questions , discuss the internet and get to be empowered by improving their knowledge on Artificial intelligence(AI) , data collection , consent and how to stay safe online. .
The townhall is organized by Mtoto News International in partnership with the Communications Authority of Kenya (CA). It is held under the theme “Smart Tech, Safe Choices Exploring the Safe and Responsible Use of AI.” The goal is to create a child friendly space where children can learn about the internet and Artificial intelligence (AI) ,share their experiences online the good and the risks and speak directly to stakeholders who make decisions about technology and online safety
Over 70% of children aged 14-18 years in Kenya access the internet, often daily for education and social interaction. An estimated 67% which is about 2 out of every 3 children aged 12-17years in Kenya use the internet, hence positioning it as one of the highest in Eastern and Southern Africa. While it can be fun and helpful, the internet also has risks. Some children face challenges like cyberbullying, harmful content, or misuse of their personal information. With AI becoming common in apps and social media, it is even more important for children to know how to stay safe online.
At the townhall, children will share their experiences, ask questions, and give ideas to government officials, regulators, and technology companies. There will also be a short AI literacy session to help children understand what AI is, how it works, and how to use it safely. Child-friendly materials will be shared to teach them about their rights, data protection, and online safety.
Officials from the Communications Authority of Kenya, Ministry of Education, Office of the Data Protection Commissioner, Kenya Film and Classification Board, civil society groups, and companies like Safaricom, TikTok, and Meta will meet the children and hear their concerns. This helps adults understand children’s real experiences online.
This townhall is important because children are usually left out of discussions about internet safety and technology rules. By giving them a safe space to speak, the forum shows that children’s voices matter in shaping rules about AI and online safety.