Stakeholders’ Awareness Creation on Online Child Abuse among Primary School Children in Langata Sub-county, Nairobi County in Kenya

Wilkins Ndege Muhingi – The Catholic University of Eastern Africa
Johnson Nzau Mavole – The Catholic University of Eastern Africa
Mumo Nzau – University of Nairobi
Corresponding Author: wilkndege@gmail.com

Received September 6, 2020; Revised September 17, Accepted September 18, 2020

Abstract: There exist several technical mechanisms to protect children on the internet. However, children continue encountering problems emanating from sexting, pornography, fraud, among others. The objective of this study was to examine how stakeholders’ awareness creation influenced online child abuse among children in primary schools in Langata subcounty in Kenya. Adopting a cross-sectional descriptive design, this study was informed by Godden’s formula, targeted 423 children, 9-17 years from private and public primary schools, teachers, parents, and policymakers within the DCS and DCI. Key Informant Interviews were carried out using simple random, stratified purposive, stratified, convenience, and purposive sampling designs. The study employed interview guides, questionnaires, and FGD (5) schedules to collect data. Quantitative data were analysed using descriptive statistics with the help of SPSS version 22. Quantitative data were analysed using descriptive and inferential statistics presenting findings using graphs, frequencies, and tables. Qualitative data were analyzed using content analysis utilising Nvivo version 12 and presented in narratives. The study showed that traditional awareness delivery methods, particularly activities and posters were used in schools to raise awareness of cyber-safety. School teachers also used video-based, game-based, social media online method, and lecture method to instruct children on internet use. The study concluded that a multi-level approach would be used to enhance awareness creation by having each stakeholder take the responsibility to address child online abuse. The study recommended stakeholders to work in collaboration, prepare materials, and plan to use through awareness creation on online child protection issues.