Monetised Social Media Driving Digital Violence, Deputy Minister Warns

Minister Phuti Raises Alarm Over Rise in Online Abuse and Digital Violence

The Government has raised concern over a sharp increase in cyberbullying, online harassment and harmful digital content in Zimbabwe, warning that profit-driven social media platforms are worsening the problem.

Deputy Minister of Information Communication Technology, Postal and Courier Services Dingumuzi Phuti told Senators that features allowing users to earn money from views and engagement are encouraging the spread of provocative and abusive content.

Also Read: Zimbabwe Speaker Calls For Strict Australia-Style Social Media Laws To Protect Youth

TikTok Flagged as Major Concern

Phuti identified TikTok as one of the platforms where offensive language and inappropriate material are becoming more visible, particularly content that exposes children to harm.

He said the pursuit of online popularity and income is increasingly overriding ethical considerations, resulting in content that undermines personal dignity and social values.

Zimbabwe Ahead on Data Protection Frameworks

The Deputy Minister said Zimbabwe had moved early to address digital safety challenges by introducing the Data Protection Act in 2021, positioning the country among a few African nations with such legislation in place.

He added that the training of Data Protection Officers has further strengthened the country’s institutional capacity to deal with privacy breaches and online misconduct.

Knowledge Gap Weakens Public Protection

Despite the legal framework, Phuti acknowledged that limited public awareness continues to weaken protection efforts, as many citizens do not know how to report or respond to online abuse.

He said the lack of digital literacy leaves victims vulnerable, particularly young people who are frequent users of social media platforms.

Child Online Protection Bill Near Completion

Phuti told the Senate that the Ministry is finalising a Child Online Protection Bill aimed at strengthening safeguards for minors, improving enforcement mechanisms and tightening regulation of harmful online content.

He stressed that stronger oversight and public education are essential to prevent the normalisation of abusive language and digital violence in Zimbabwe.