TikTok is making efforts to safeguard its growing African user base by establishing its inaugural Safety Advisory Council on the continent. This initiative is in response to the platform’s increasing popularity, especially among Africa’s youth and tech-savvy demographic.
As smartphones become more accessible and internet usage rises, Africa has become a crucial battleground for social media platforms. With growth comes the responsibility to address misinformation and protect young users from online risks. Various African governments are advocating for stricter control over digital spaces, a challenge that TikTok’s new council aims to tackle.
TikTok’s Director of Government Relations & Public Policy for Sub-Saharan Africa, Fortune Mgwili-Sibanda, emphasized the collective effort required to ensure TikTok remains a safe environment.
The #SaferTogether campaign, already reaching thousands in Kenya and Nigeria, is part of these endeavors, educating users on online safety practices.
The newly unveiled safety advisory council, launched in Nairobi, Kenya, comprises a diverse panel of experts, including academics, digital rights advocates, and local content creators. These members will offer vital insights on how TikTok can address the unique challenges faced by African users.
Notable members like Professor Guy Berger from South Africa, Dennis Coffie from Ghana, Aisha Dabo from Senegal, Lillian Kariuki from Kenya, Dr. Akinola Olojo from Nigeria, Prof. Medhane Tadesse from Ethiopia, and Berhan Taye, an Ethiopian researcher, bring valuable perspectives to the council.
TikTok’s popularity in Africa has surged, propelling users like Kenya’s Azziad Nasenya to fame. However, with this fame comes the necessity for robust safety measures, especially as more young individuals aim to replicate such success.
As Africa undergoes a digital transformation propelled by policy reforms and affordable smartphones, internet access is rapidly expanding across the continent. This trend empowers African youth to not only consume but also create content, turning platforms like TikTok into significant sources of income and influence.