Young Rwandans should use social media responsibly and avoid posts that could expose them to criminal offences or cause problems for them later in life, a senior Rwanda Investigation Bureau official has said.
RIB spokesperson Dr. Murangira B. Thierry made the remarks while addressing young people in Musanze following a special Umuganda focused on raising awareness about the fight against illicit alcohol.
Murangira’s message centred on the lasting nature of information shared online, urging young people to think carefully before posting details about their private lives.
He criticised those who use social media to publicly recount personal problems and experiences, saying some information should remain private.
“Social media was not created for you to go and talk about your personal problems. There are things you have gone through that your child should not know,” he said.
“Internet never forgets. Whatever you do, you do not know who has it, you do not know when they will bring it back or when they will use it against you.”
Murangira urged young people to consider the kind of digital record they are leaving for future generations.
He also cautioned against conduct on social media that could lead to criminal offences.
“What you would not do in public, why do you go and do it on social media? Someone insults and gets paid,” he said.
The RIB spokesperson also pointed to the potential benefits of social media when used appropriately.
He said the government invests in technology to make digital platforms easier for people to use, while encouraging young people to make productive use of them.
The remarks came as young people in Musanze were also taking part in activities aimed at raising awareness about the dangers of illicit alcohol.
