Ghanaians seeking access to adult websites could soon be required to provide a National ID card or driver’s licence under a new proposal being considered by government.
The initiative, announced by the Minister for Communication, Digital Technology and Innovation, Samuel Nartey George, forms part of efforts to strengthen online child protection and restrict minors’ access to sexually explicit content.
Speaking at the 4th Inter-Parliamentary Conference on Family, Values and Sovereignty, Mr. George said government is studying age-verification systems adopted in other jurisdictions and is considering similar measures for Ghana.
Under the proposed framework, individuals would be required to verify that they are at least 18 years old before gaining access to X-rated websites.
Protecting Children Online
According to the Minister, the move is intended to address growing concerns about children’s exposure to pornography and other inappropriate online content.
He argued that unrestricted access to sexually explicit material can negatively affect the development, behaviour and value systems of young people.
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Mr. George cited developments in the United Kingdom, where age-verification requirements have been introduced for adult websites as part of broader online safety reforms.
“It is important that we understand the danger that we face with pornography. Today, in the United Kingdom, to access a pornographic website, you need to provide identification to confirm you are 18 years and above,” he said.
Proposal Headed for Cabinet
The Minister disclosed that government is working towards presenting the proposal to Cabinet for consideration.
If approved, the policy would require users to verify their identity using either a National ID card or a driver’s licence before accessing adult content online.
Officials believe the measure could help prevent children from accessing inappropriate material while promoting responsible internet use.
Privacy and Digital Rights Questions Expected
While the proposal is likely to receive support from advocates of child online safety, it is also expected to generate discussions around privacy, data protection and digital rights.
Technology and policy experts have increasingly debated how governments can balance child protection with the need to safeguard personal information and internet freedoms.
For now, the proposal remains under consideration, but it signals government’s intention to introduce stricter safeguards as internet access and digital content consumption continue to grow across the country.
If implemented, the policy would mark a significant shift in Ghana’s approach to online age verification and digital safety regulation.
