At TikTok, we understand our responsibility to foster a safe online space for all our users in this digital age, and we're taking steps to further ensure the safety of our TikTok community in Kenya. Initiatives like our #SaferTogether workshops aim to bring together the key players who help us maintain TikTok as a safe haven for creativity and joy. In collaboration with Eveminet Communications, an organisation dedicated to promoting digital safety and well-being, we're rolling out a series of in-person and virtual workshops across Kenya.
Phase one of the #SaferTogether workshops was launched successfully in Nairobi this February during Safer Internet Month, reaching nearly 7,000 parents, guardians, and teachers.
Building on this success, we're excited to announce phase two of this project, revealed on the 25th of October at a stakeholder event hosted at Woodcreek School in Kiambu. Our collaborative efforts with Eveminet Communications aim to reach at least 72 schools, four universities, and over 3,000 parents and guardians across 11 Kenyan counties.
Fortune Mgwili-Sibanda, our Government & Public Policy Director for Sub-Saharan Africa, said, "Everyone deserves to feel protected and empowered while engaging on the platform." We're dedicated to creating a safe space for our creators, offering them various tools and controls to manage their experience on TikTok. #SaferTogether is a promise we made after engaging with stakeholders throughout the year, and it represents our commitment to making TikTok better, together."
At the core of the #SaferTogether workshops is the Trainer of Trainers (TOT) program, which will host over 280 sessions.
These workshops will also provide resources to help teachers, parents, and guardians create secure online spaces for the young people they care for. This includes setting up parental control settings, defining screen time boundaries, and educating young people about responsible online behaviour.
Kenya Film Classification Board AG. CEO Mr. Joel Wamalwa emphasised the responsibility of parents to monitor and guide their children's online content access and consumption. He reminded content creators to consider the values they pass on to young people through their content.
Kenya Film Classification Board AG. CEO Mr. Joel Wamalwa
We've also got the Safety Centre, a hub for safety updates. It provides the latest information on actions we're taking to boost safety and security on the platform. It's available for both creators and users, so be sure to visit the Safety Centre to stay updated on our latest safety initiatives.
We are proud to be part of a community that takes safety seriously, and by consistently working to create and maintain a secure environment, we're resolute in our commitment to providing you with a positive and enjoyable experience here on TikTok.
A word from our partner:
"Eveminet is excited to launch the second phase of the Safer Together program in partnership with TikTok. This includes a Trainer of Trainers (TOT) program, leveraging insights from the initial phase to enhance trust and safety for young users and the broader child-focused community. The initiative aims to cultivate a culture of trust, joy, and creativity among TikTok users. We remain dedicated to empowering families and stakeholders with the ultimate goal to strengthen capabilities and establish a secure digital space that fosters the well-being of youth and young adults." - Evelyn Kasina, the founder of Eveminet Communications