By Adedapo Adesanya
TikTok and the African Union Commission (AUC) are teaming up to launch the Africa-wide #SaferTogether Campaign, aimed at educating and engaging youngsters, parents, teachers, and community leaders on digital safety through in-app and on-ground activities.
The partnership will be carried out by a short-form video app and the African Union Commission’s Women, Gender, and Youth Directorate (WGYD) and is aimed at bolstering online safety awareness among the youth as well as parents, teachers and guardians in Africa.
This innovative collaboration emerges at a critical moment, addressing the urgent need for digital safety amidst the unique challenges faced by the continent. Recall that TikTok is facing increased scrutiny, particularly in the United States.
Africa stands at a digital crossroads, with the rapid proliferation of social media platforms juxtaposed against rising concerns for the safety of its youngest citizens. The recent wave of regulatory scrutiny and the shadow of potential bans underscore the importance of proactive measures to ensure a safe online environment.
This flagship, multi-year initiative, launched at the TikTok Safer Internet Summit in Accra, Ghana on March 14 underscores both TikTok and the AUC’s commitment to digital literacy and safety, they jointly said in a press release.
“TikTok prioritises a safe environment, enhancing security measures and partnering with the AUC to promote children’s safety and empowerment in the digital space, advancing Africa’s digitalisation for youth welfare. By coming together for safer internet conversations, TikTok and the AUC are committed to providing valuable educational materials and guidelines aimed at crafting a positive and secure online journey for everyone involved,” it said.
It will work by combining in-app and on-ground efforts to educate and empower communities on digital safety, aligning closely with the AUC’s focus on children’s safety in the digital space and the Digital Transformation Strategy for Africa.
It will also include a comprehensive in-app campaign featuring educational videos on internet safety, supported by hashtag challenges and content creator safety endorsements.
TikTok and the AUC will distribute 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.
Speaking on this, Mr Fortune Mgwili-Sibanda, Government Relations & Public Policy Director, TikTok, Sub-Saharan Africa, highlighted this collaboration’s strategic nature: “Our #SaferTogether partnership with the African Union Commission’s Women, Gender and Youth Directorate reinforces TikTok’s deep commitment to the diverse tapestry of markets across Africa. Through initiatives like our educational workshops, and the development of comprehensive safety toolkits, we are committed to nurturing a digitally safe environment for all.”
Echoing this sentiment, Ms Prudence Nonkululeko Ngwenya, Director of the Women, Gender, and Youth Directorate African Union, lauded the partnership as a vital step towards empowering Africa’s youth and safeguarding their digital futures. “The #SaferTogether campaign launch with TikTok is in line with the African Union’s ongoing efforts to promote and advocate for not only safe online experiences for young people in Africa but also their mental well-being through the 1 Million Next Level Initiative. While access to the internet can help children and young people stay connected, improve their digital literacy, and diversify their livelihoods, they must be provided with a safe environment to reap the benefits of digital platforms.”
Through the fusion of technology and education, TikTok and AUC say the partnership will equip young individuals with the tools and confidence needed to navigate the complexities of the digital realm with wisdom and safety.
