- TikTok’s Safer Together Workshops have attracted 116,355 attendees.
- The social media platform has in the recent past had issues over safety in Kenya and around the world.
- According to TikTok, the initiative will involve availing educative videos on digital and internet safety on the platform.
Kenyan youth have joined TikTok’s Global Youth Council to engage with TikTok CEO Shou Chew on matters of digital safety as the video sharing app faces mounting pressure from governments across the world.
This collaboration comes as part of the social platforms ongoing efforts, in partnership with Eveminet, to promote a safer online environment through TikTok’s Safer Together Workshops. The trainings come amidst measures by some countries, including Kenya, that ban the use of the platform on government issued devices due to data safety concerns.
The TikTok’s Safer Together Workshops were officially launched in October 2023 with the goal of creating a safe and empowering space on the app for Kenya’s youth. Since then, these workshops have seen significant participation, with 116,355 attendees including students, parents, and educators across 21 counties in Kenya.
The TikTok’s Safer Together Workshops offer both in-person and virtual learning experiences and have been particularly impactful during events like Safer Internet Month in February 2024.
In February, a total of 56,020 learners benefited from a mix of hybrid sessions and the “Train the Trainer” model, which not only educates individuals but also empowers them to spread digital safety awareness within their communities.
Read also: TikTok Kenya office to moderate content, run Africa operations
TikTok’s Safer Together Workshops to expand to 26 countries
Fortune Mgwili-Sibanda, TikTok’s Director of Government and Public Policy for Sub-Saharan Africa, said that from April to September 2024, the firm is looking to cover the remaining 26 counties, ensuring nationwide access to essential digital safety education.
“At TikTok, we believe that safety is a collaborative effort and we are encouraged by the numbers that we have achieved; reaching not only young people but parents, teachers and guardians. Our commitment to safety in Kenya extends beyond current achievements,” said Sibanda.
The social media platform has in the recent past had issues over safety from various jurisdictions. Last year, a petitioner sought its ban in Kenya citing the spread of inappropriate content that inspires deviant characters amongst young people, mostly aged 16-25 years.
There have been calls to Kenyan lawmakers to take immediate action to safeguard Kenyans from the negative effects of the App which they claimed had exposed children to nudity and profanity.
These concerns forced President William Ruto to have a virtual meeting with TikTok CEO Shou Zi Chew in August last year where it was agreed that the content on the short-form video platform will be moderated to fit community standards.
Last week, Interior Cabinet Secretary Kithure Kindiki told Parliament that the National Security Council (NSC) is currently dealing with the threats posed by the social media platform.
TikTok’s Safer Together Workshops Plan
According to TikTok, the initiative will involve availing educative videos on digital and internet safety on the platform, as well as hashtag challenges and providing ‘safety toolkits’ to teachers and guardians.
These new efforts to boost online safety of TikTok users, may, however, not ease the scrutiny it is already facing across Africa and beyond, with an imminent ban in the United States, for instance, if it doesn’t divest its American arm.
The social media platform which is growing at 47 percent, is shadowing Facebook, Twitter and Instagram.
Evelyn Kasina, CEO of Eveminet, Tiktoks joint partner in the trainings highlighted the broader impact of the initiative, emphasizing the importance of creating a digital ecosystem rooted in trust and creativity for TikTok’s community in Kenya.
She mentioned partnerships with organizations like the Kenya Scouts Association and Riara University to reinforce digital safety education.
Read also: Highest paid TikTokers in Kenya, amount they take home
TikTok’s Global Youth Council
As part of its commitment to prioritize youth voices in shaping safety strategies, TikTok established its Global Youth Council, which includes representatives from Kenya.
The Council, comprising 15 teens from diverse backgrounds, recently met with TikTok CEO Shou Chew to discuss youth well-being and inclusion on the platform.
The Youth Council’s priorities for 2024 include enhancing the Youth Portal and gaining insights into reporting and blocking processes.
This initiative, facilitated by Praesidio Safeguarding and supported by global experts and local partners, reflects TikTok’s dedication to inclusivity and community involvement.
“This initiative is a powerful affirmation of TikTok’s dedication to amplifying the voices of the young, particularly highlighting our commitment to inclusivity and empowerment,” said Jennifer Kaberi, CEO of Mtoto News.
