The government is considering a new policy that would require people to verify their identity before accessing pornographic websites in Ghana.
The proposal was announced by the Minister for Communications, Digital Technology, and Innovations, Samuel Nartey George, who said the measure is aimed at protecting children from being exposed to explicit online content.
Speaking at the 4th African Inter-Parliamentary Conference on Family, Sovereignty, and Values, the Ningo-Prampram MP revealed that the policy is currently being prepared for Cabinet’s consideration.
If approved, the new system could require users to present a national ID card or driver’s licence before they are allowed to access adult websites.
According to the minister, the goal is to ensure that only adults can view such content while reducing the chances of children accessing inappropriate material online.
Sam George said similar measures have already been introduced in other countries, including the United Kingdom, where age-verification systems are used to control access to adult websites.
He argued that exposing children to pornography at a young age can negatively affect their development, behaviour, and moral upbringing.
The minister said the proposal forms part of wider efforts to improve child protection online and promote family and societal values in the digital age.
He also reaffirmed his support for the Human Sexual Rights and Family Values Bill, popularly known as the anti-LGBTQ+ Bill, stating that one of its objectives is to protect children.
According to him, Ghana must strengthen its digital regulations to better protect young people and preserve the country’s cultural values in an increasingly digital world.
