The Council of Imams and Preachers of Kenya (CIPK) has urged parents to closely monitor their children’s online activities during the long school holiday, warning that digital spaces have increasingly become hunting grounds for predators targeting minors.
CIPK Kinango and Lunga-Lunga branch chair Sheikh Faraj Abubakar said many children spend hours on phones, tablets, and computers without supervision, exposing them to harmful content and interactions.
He noted that parents must take an active role in understanding what their children browse and who they communicate with on various social media platforms.
“During the school break, we must make an effort to check what our children are doing on their phones and computers, and also pay attention to the company they keep,” he said.
Sheikh Abubakar warned that without proper guidance, children risk falling victim to sexual exploitation, cyberbullying, drug peddlers, and criminal recruitment networks that thrive online.
He said predators often disguise themselves as peers or helpers, making it difficult for unsuspecting children to detect danger.
The cleric emphasized that parental vigilance, open communication, and regular review of internet usage can significantly reduce exposure to online threats.
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He also called on community leaders, teachers, and religious institutions to raise awareness on safe internet use and help protect school-going children during the holiday period.
Abubakar further urged parents to take their children to Sunday schools and Madrasa so they can receive proper religious guidance.
He said children raised in strong religious foundations are more likely to grow up with good morals, discipline, and the fear of God, values he believes can help curb teenage pregnancies and other social vices.
The sheikh also advised parents to strengthen their role in shaping their children’s character, noting that responsible parenting is key to raising disciplined, accountable, and productive citizens.
“As parents, let us take the centre stage in raising our children and not leave that responsibility to teachers alone,” he said.
By Shaban Omar
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