Chinese short video platform, TikTok, has partnered with the African Union Commission’s (AUC) Women, Gender, and Youth Directorate (WGYD) to enhance online safety awareness among Africa’s youth, parents, teachers, and guardians.
Digital connectivity has become vital in daily life, particularly in Africa, where concerns over digital safety are mounting amidst the continent’s rapid digital transformation. The partnership aims to address these concerns through the launch of the Africa-wide #SaferTogether Campaign, aimed at educating and engaging various stakeholders on digital safety.
The campaign, launched at the TikTok Safer Internet Summit in Accra, Ghana, covers in-app and on-ground activities designed to educate and empower communities on digital safety issues. This aligns closely with the AUC’s focus on children’s safety in the digital space and the Digital Transformation Strategy for Africa.
The initiative includes educational videos on internet safety, hashtag challenges, content creator safety endorsements, and the distribution of “Digital Safety Toolkits” to aid teachers and guardians in addressing crucial digital safety issues. These resources will be accessible on TikTok through a dedicated microsite, serving as an interactive guide for promoting safer online practices.
TikTok’s Government Relations & Public Policy Director for Sub-Saharan Africa, Fortune Mgwili-Sibanda, emphasized the strategic nature of the partnership, highlighting TikTok’s commitment to fostering a digitally safe environment across Africa.
Ms. Prudence Nonkululeko Ngwenya, Director of the Women, Gender, and Youth Directorate African Union, hailed the partnership as a vital step towards empowering Africa’s youth and safeguarding their digital futures. She noted the importance of providing a safe online environment for young people to reap the benefits of digital platforms.
Through initiatives like the #SaferTogether Campaign and the 1 Million Next Level Initiative, the AUC aims to promote safe internet use and address issues related to unsafe internet practices. TikTok, on its part, remains committed to implementing effective security measures and empowering users with control over their accounts and content.
Source: APO Group
By Derrick Kafui Deti
