In an effort to promote digital safety and foster a safe online community, TikTok, in partnership with Eveminet Communications Ltd., hosted a significant event on 22 nd August 2024 at Zetech University Technology Park Mang’u Campus. This event, is part of TikTok’s nationwide #SaferTogether campaign, designed to reach young people across Kenya, with the summit at Zetech University focusing on the vital importance of digital safety in the online world. The event also welcomed the Kenya Scouts Association and high school students from across Kiambu County, emphasising the campaign's inclusivity and widespread impact.
Ms. Zara Higgs, Head of Public Policy Programs at TikTok for the Middle East, Africa, Turkiye, Pakistan & South Asia, opened the summit by providing an in-depth overview of the workshop including; TikTok’s community guidelines, content control mechanisms, and the online challenges that many young users encounter. She emphasised TikTok’s commitment to creating a safer digital environment, highlighting the platform’s ongoing efforts to educate its users on maintaining a positive online presence.
Prof. Njenga Munene, Vice Chancellor of Zetech University, underscored the significance of TikTok's role in unlocking creativity and connecting people worldwide. He noted the importance of individual responsibility in maintaining online safety, stating, "Your online safety and my online safety start with you. You are your brother’s keeper. The guidelines, safety measures, and content control mechanisms discussed here today are crucial in ensuring a more friendly environment filled with creativity, not harm." He further reinforced Zetech University’s position in ensuring that the guidelines and lessons in the summit will be embedded in the studies on content creation at the institution.
As TikTok continues to lead the way in short-form mobile video, the platform remains committed to promoting safe and responsible content creation. Attendees at the summit were trained on content control mechanisms, such as restricting unwanted content, blocking culturally inappropriate material, and allowing only content of personal interest. These measures are essential in fostering a safer and more enjoyable user experience on the platform.
Ms. Evelyn Kasina, CEO of Eveminet, reiterated the importance of the #SaferTogether campaign, calling for a co-existence that respects local content, prevents harm and hate, and ensures transparency and fairness in content creation. She urged users to be proactive in safeguarding their mental well-being by deleting and reporting hate comments, hashtags, and account impersonation, actions that contribute significantly to a safer online community.
Key remarks from the Assistant Data Protection Commissioner, Mr. Emmanuel Maiyo, highlighted the importance of data ownership and the need for individuals to be mindful of privacy policies. Mr. Maiyo encouraged users to report any violations and stressed the necessity of implementing security measures to avoid legal issues related to data protection.
At the same time, Ms. Emma Irungu, Head of Compliance Management at the Kenya Films Classification Board also added that the board continues to work closely with platforms such as TikTok in regulating content from creation to distribution to consumption. She noted that while Africa has a wealth of content creators, the continent lacks sufficient distribution channels. Ms. Irungu urged the Gen Z audience to embrace platforms like TikTok as valuable tools for content creation and distribution.
As TikTok's #SaferTogether campaign continues traversing across Kenya, learning institutions like Zetech University are being encouraged to integrate content creation into their curricula. By educating young adults on community guidelines, data protection, impersonation, and content regulation, these institutions can play a pivotal role in shaping a safer digital future for all.