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A new bill in Kenya proposes that all users — both new and existing — must verify their age using their national ID cards before being allowed access to social media platforms like WhatsApp, Facebook, Instagram, and LinkedIn.
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The Kenya Information and Communications (Amendment) Bill, 2025, introduced by Aldai MP Marianne Kitany, aims to shield minors from harmful online content and foster a safer digital environment.
According to the bill, the responsibility of protecting children online falls on all stakeholders within the internet ecosystem, including developers and service providers.
If passed, Content Service Providers (CSPs) and Application Service Providers (ASPs) will be legally obligated to enforce age verification protocols. Mobile network operators will also need to ensure full registration of SIM card users to support the verification process.
MP Kitany criticized the current self-declaration age checks on platforms, saying they are easily bypassed through false information and fake identities, rendering them unreliable.
If adopted, Kenya would join other countries that have taken steps to restrict social media access for minors. While no global standard exists, several countries are working on policies to ensure children access only age-appropriate content.
