MTN and MTV Base Launch “Room of Safety” Series to Educate Youth on Internet Safety
By Ernest Best Anane
MTN, Africa’s leading mobile network operator, has partnered with MTV Base, the number one youth and pop culture brand in Africa, to launch the “Room of Safety” series. This innovative, youth-led movement aims to raise awareness about online child safety and promote positive digital behaviors across the continent.
The “Room of Safety” series is a 10-part short-form series that premiered on July 20, 2025, at 15:00 on MTV Base, DStv channel 322, and on @MTVBaseSouth and @MTVBaseAfrica social handles. The series features Paramount’s Culture Squad member, Craig Nobela, alongside a dynamic lineup of young African influencers. Through relatable storytelling and youth-driven content, the series aims to spark dialogue, raise awareness, and equip young people with the knowledge and tools to navigate online risks
Recent research conducted by Ipsos in partnership with MTN across Nigeria, South Sudan, and Zambia reveals alarming trends in online behavior among children aged 8-17
– *1 in 10 children* in Nigeria and South Sudan reported being harassed online
– *20% of children* in South Sudan reported being bullied online — the highest among the three countries
– *79% of adolescents aged 13-17* in Nigeria spend more than an hour online daily, increasing their exposure to risky online behavior
– *30-40% of teens* across the three countries admitted to adding strangers to their messaging app
MTN is committed to creating a safer digital environment for children through a holistic approach that extends beyond awareness to action. As part of its Help Children Be Children initiative, MTN is supporting the strengthening of in-country reporting portals and child helplines, while also working to make the Africa Online Safety Portal accessible across the continent
Protecting children online in Africa demands urgent, collective action. MTN and MTV Base are calling on young people, parents, educators, and leaders to be part of building a safer digital Africa for the next generation. To find out more about child online protection, visit: (link unavailable) ⁴.
