Kenyan Youth Join TikTok’s Global Youth Council to Advocate for Digital Safety

TikTok has intensified the push for it digital safety training initiatives amidst increasing push for its ban and enhanced regulation.

So far the social media platform says over 116,000 Kenyans have benefitted from its ongoing digital safety training.

The 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, Tiktok says 116,355 attendees including students, parents, and educators across 21 counties in Kenya have benefitted.

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.

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.

On Wednesday 3, Kenyan youth were given an opportunity to engage with TikTok CEO Shou Chew on matters of youth digital safety.

This collaboration comes as part of TikTok’s ongoing efforts, in partnership with Eveminet, to promote a safer online environment through their Safer Together workshops.

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The trainings come amidst some countries, including Kenya, considering a partial ban on the platform.

The workshops offer both in-person and virtual learning experiences and have been particularly impactful during events like Safer Internet Month in February 2024.

During February alone, 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.

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.

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.