Government Seeks to Block Minors from Porn Sites Using Ghana Card Age Verification – Sam George

The Government of Ghana is considering a policy to block access to online pornography and adult content for minors unless users verify their age using the Ghana Card, Communications Minister Samuel Nartey George has said.

Speaking recently, the Minister explained that the proposed measure would require internet service providers and telecom companies to work with government authorities to ensure that only adults aged 18 and above can access explicit online material. Under the plan, users would need to submit their Ghana Card details so that age verification can be confirmed against the National Identification Authority’s database before access is granted. This step is aimed at preventing children and young people from viewing harmful content online.

Mr. George noted that the policy is still being prepared and could be submitted to Cabinet for approval next year before it is implemented. He drew parallels with recent international approaches, such as laws in the United Kingdom that mandate age checks for adult sites to protect minors.

The Minister framed the initiative as part of broader efforts to safeguard children from online distractions and harmful materials that can affect their development and educational engagement. He also mentioned ongoing discussions with technology companies about content moderation and protecting young users on global platforms.

If approved, the policy would mark a significant step in regulating digital content access in Ghana, leveraging the national digital identity system to enforce age-appropriate online experiences