MTN and MTV Base Launch “Room of Safety” Series to Promote Online Safety Among African Youth

MTN, Africa’s leading mobile network operator, has partnered with MTV Base, the continent’s premier youth and pop culture platform, to launch “Room of Safety”—a groundbreaking 10-part short-form series aimed at raising awareness around online safety for children and teens.

The campaign, which premieres on 20 July 2025 at 15:00 GMT on MTV Base (DStv channel 322) and across @MTVBaseSouth and @MTVBaseAfrica social media handles, is part of MTN’s “Help Children Be Children” initiative. It seeks to promote safe digital habits and empower young people with the tools and knowledge to protect themselves online.

A Youth-Led Movement for Change

“Room of Safety” blends powerful storytelling and relatable experiences, featuring Paramount’s Culture Squad member Craig Nobela and young African influencers such as Yanda Woods, LordKez, Foyin Ongunrombi, Azana, MajorSteez, Melissa Nayimuli, Mawelele, and Naledi.

“Access must go hand-in-hand with protection,” said Marina Madale, MTN Group Executive for Sustainability and Shared Value. “We’re amplifying youth voices to build a safer, more conscious digital future.”

Monde Twala, Senior Vice President and GM of Editorial at Paramount Africa, added:

“For two decades, MTV Base has spotlighted youth issues—from HIV to mental health. ‘Room of Safety’ continues that legacy by empowering young people to navigate the digital world safely.”

Adwoa Wiafe, MTN Ghana’s Chief Corporate Services and Sustainability Officer, emphasized the importance of dialogue:

“We need to create a culture where young people feel empowered to talk openly about their online experiences with parents, teachers, and peers.”

Urgent Need Across Africa

Recent research by Ipsos and MTN highlights concerning trends among children aged 8–17 in Nigeria, South Sudan, and Zambia:

• 1 in 10 children in Nigeria and South Sudan have experienced online harassment

• 20% of South Sudanese children reported online bullying

• 79% of Nigerian teens (13–17) spend over an hour online daily

• 30–40% of teens admitted to adding strangers to messaging apps

• In Juba, children spending over an hour online daily are 17 times more likely to engage in risky behaviour

These findings show a pressing need for stronger digital literacy, protective tools, and accessible reporting platforms.

Beyond Awareness: Tools for Action

As part of its broader initiative, MTN is:

• Supporting national child helplines and online safety portals

• Expanding access to the Africa Online Safety Portal

• Enabling direct reporting of child sexual abuse material (CSAM) for removal—often within an hour

With only 20–22% of children aware of protection portals, but 80% wanting reporting options, these steps are critical for safeguarding the continent’s youth.

A Call to Action

With rising online threats such as AI misuse and digital exploitation, MTN and MTV Base are calling on youth, parents, educators, and policymakers to take collective action.

“Room of Safety is more than a series—it’s a movement,” the organizers stressed. “Together, we can build a safer digital Africa.”