Since Australia banned children under 16 from major social media platforms, many parents have asked whether Ghana will do the same. Here is where things stand.
Short answer
We found no proposal for a general social media ban for children in Ghana. The government’s child online safety proposal is about age verification for adult websites using the Ghana Card or a driver’s licence. See Ghana Card checks for adult websites.
How Ghana compares with Australia
| Australia | Ghana | |
|---|---|---|
| Main measure | Under-16s banned from major social media (law passed December 2025) | Proposed ID checks for adult websites (heading to Cabinet) |
| Penalties | Fines of up to AU$50 million for platforms | Not yet set |
| Existing law | Online safety laws | Cybersecurity Act, 2020 (Act 1038): grooming and indecent images of children, 5 to 25 years in prison |
The Ghana Chamber of Telecommunications has pointed out that Ghana’s law targets exploitation after it happens, rather than restricting children’s access to platforms in the first place.
Platforms’ own age rules
Most major platforms require users to be at least 13. TikTok requires users to be 18 to go LIVE. These rules depend on children giving honest ages, which is why governments are looking at verification.
What parents can do now
- Set up Google Family Link or Apple Screen Time on children’s phones.
- Keep children’s accounts private and review who they follow.
- Turn on restricted modes on YouTube and TikTok.
- Teach children never to share photos, location or codes with strangers.
- Report grooming or abuse to the police and the Cyber Security Authority (292).
This explainer reflects reporting up to October 2026. We will update it when there is official news.
This guide was checked in October 2026. Menus and services change, so if something looks different on your phone, check with your provider.
Common questions
Is there a social media age limit in Ghana?
There is no Ghanaian law banning children from social media. Platforms set their own minimum ages, commonly 13.
Is Ghana copying Australia’s under-16 ban?
Not as of the latest reports. Ghana’s proposal focuses on age verification for adult websites, not a general social media ban.
What law protects children online in Ghana?
The Cybersecurity Act, 2020 (Act 1038) criminalises grooming and indecent images of children, with heavy penalties.
What can parents do now?
Use parental controls, check app age ratings, and keep children’s accounts private.
