TikTok Reinforces Safety Precautions Across Africa as User Base Burgeons

TikTok, the popular social media platform, has announced the launch of its first Safety Advisory Council in Africa. The council, which was unveiled last week in Nairobi, Kenya, aims to address the unique challenges and opportunities presented by the digital landscape in Africa.

The council consists of a diverse group of experts, including academics, digital rights advocates, and local content creators. Among the council members is Professor Guy Berger from South Africa, recognized for his work on media freedom. Berger provides crucial perspectives on balancing content moderation with free expression.

Africa's nascent e-economy is being propelled by progressive policy reforms and the arrival of affordable smartphones, rapidly expanding internet access across the continent. This digital revolution is empowering Africa's youth, who are both consuming and generating content on platforms like TikTok at unprecedented levels.

Kenya's Azziad Nasenya, a TikTok user, has become a household name due to the "Utawezana" dance challenge and subsequent brand partnerships. Her success story is a testament to how TikTok has transformed into a crucial platform for digital entrepreneurs seeking employment.

However, the platform faces pressure to combat the proliferation of misinformation and to protect its youngest users from online threats. The #SaferTogether campaign, part of TikTok's initiative, educates users on how to safeguard themselves online. The campaign encourages users to contribute to making TikTok a safer environment by adhering to the Community Guidelines and utilizing safety features.

Lillian Kariuki, head of Kenya's Watoto Watch Network, focuses on child safety within TikTok's user base. Berhan Taye, an Ethiopian researcher on digital rights, ensures the council's decisions uphold users' freedoms while prioritizing their safety.

The council also includes Bright Simons, Dr. Bitange Ndemo, and Olivia Muchena from Africa. Simons is a renowned digital inclusion advocate, while Ndemo is a former Cabinet Secretary for Information and Communications in Kenya. Muchena is a Zimbabwean digital rights activist.

Nigerian expert Dr. Akinola Olojo joins the council with a background in countering violent extremism. Ethiopian academic Prof. Medhane Tadesse brings expertise in peace and security to the council.

Dennis Coffie, a content creator from Ghana, offers insights grounded in the everyday experiences of TikTok users, ensuring that the platform remains connected to its grassroots community. Aisha Dabo from Senegal, co-founder of AfricTivistes, advocates for digital activism and justice within TikTok's policies.

Fortune Mgwili-Sibanda, TikTok's Director of Government Relations & Public Policy for Sub-Saharan Africa, emphasized the collective responsibility in creating a safe environment on TikTok. The new safety measures are aimed at safeguarding TikTok's expanding user base in Africa, particularly among the youthful and tech-savvy demographic.

As Africa moves towards nearly complete digital connectivity within just over a decade, initiatives like TikTok's Safety Advisory Council are crucial in ensuring that this digital revolution empowers its people while protecting them from online threats.