TikTok, AU Commission partner to promote digital safety

TikTok and the African Union Commission (AUC) have joined forces to tackle challenges faced by young people on online platforms.

The partnership with the AUC’s Women, Gender, and Youth Directorate (WGYD) is aimed at bolstering online safety awareness among the youth as well as parents, teachers and guardians in Africa.

The collaboration is set to address the urgent need for digital safety amidst the unique challenges faced by the continent.

This amidst the recent wave of regulatory scrutiny and the shadow of potential bans which underscore the importance of proactive measures to ensure a safe online environment.

Against this backdrop, TikTok and the AUC have hence launched the #SaferTogether campaign aimed at educating and engaging youngsters, parents, teachers, and community leaders on digital safety through in-app and on-ground activities.

The initiative, which was launched at TikTok ‘Safer Internet Summit’ in Accra, Ghana on March 14, combines 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 constitutes a comprehensive in-app campaign featuring educational videos on internet safety, supported by hashtag challenges and content creator safety endorsements.

Additionally, 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.

Fortune Mgwili-Sibanda, Government Relations & Public Policy Director, TikTok, Sub-Saharan Africa, said: “We are proud to team up with the African Union Commission's Women, Gender, and Youth Directorate (WGYD) to make the digital world safer for all of us here in Africa.

Our #SaferTogether partnership 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.”

Prudence Nonkululeko Ngwenya, Director of the Women, Gender, and Youth Directorate African Union, on her part noted: “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, it is crucial that they are provided with a safe environment to reap the benefits of digital platforms.”