TikTok and AU Commission Forge Partnership for Digital Safety with #SaferTogether Campaign
In the age of digital connectivity that shapes our daily lives, TikTok (https://in.TikTok.com), the leading global platform for short-form mobile videos, is excited to announce a groundbreaking collaboration with the Women, Gender, and Youth Directorate (WGYD) of the African Union Commission. This partnership aims to enhance awareness of online safety among the youth, as well as parents, teachers, and guardians in Africa.
This innovative alliance comes at a crucial time, addressing the pressing need for digital safety in the face of unique challenges on the continent. Africa finds itself at a digital crossroads, with the rapid growth of social media platforms alongside growing concerns about the safety of its young population. The recent increase in regulatory scrutiny and the possibility of bans highlight the importance of proactive measures to ensure a secure online environment.
In light of these circumstances, TikTok and the African Union Commission (AUC) are joining forces to launch the Africa-wide #SaferTogether Campaign. This initiative aims to educate and engage young people, parents, teachers, and community leaders on digital safety through in-app and on-ground activities. The campaign was officially launched at the TikTok Safer Internet Summit in Accra, Ghana on 14 March, with the presence of government officials and regulators from across the continent. This initiative underscores the commitment of both TikTok and the AUC to promoting digital literacy and safety. TikTok places great importance on creating a safe environment, implementing enhanced security measures, and partnering with the AUC to ensure the safety and empowerment of children in the digital space, thus advancing Africa’s digitalization for the well-being of its youth. By working together to foster safer internet conversations, TikTok and the AUC are dedicated to providing valuable educational resources and guidelines to create a positive and secure online experience for all.
This joint endeavor, which combines efforts within the app and on the ground, has the objective of educating and empowering communities on digital safety. It closely aligns with the AUC’s focus on ensuring the safety of children in the digital realm and the Digital Transformation Strategy for Africa. The initiative includes a comprehensive in-app campaign that features educational videos on internet safety, accompanied by hashtag challenges and endorsements from content creators regarding safety. Furthermore, TikTok and the AUC will distribute “Digital Safety Toolkits” to assist teachers and guardians in addressing critical digital safety issues. These resources will be accessible on TikTok through a dedicated microsite, serving as an interactive guide to promote safer online practices.
Fortune Mgwili-Sibanda, the Government Relations & Public Policy Director for TikTok in Sub-Saharan Africa, emphasized the strategic nature of this collaboration. He stated, “Our #SaferTogether partnership with the African Union Commission’s Women, Gender and Youth Directorate demonstrates TikTok’s strong commitment to the diverse markets across Africa. Through initiatives such as educational workshops and the development of comprehensive safety toolkits, we are dedicated to fostering a digitally secure environment for everyone.”
Ms. Prudence Nonkululeko Ngwenya, the Director of the Women, Gender, and Youth Directorate at the African Union, echoed this sentiment and praised the partnership as a crucial step towards empowering Africa’s youth and safeguarding their digital futures. She stated, “The launch of the #SaferTogether campaign with TikTok aligns with the African Union’s ongoing efforts to promote safe online experiences for young people in Africa, as well as their mental well-being through the 1 Million Next Level Initiative. While internet access can help children and young people stay connected, enhance their digital literacy, and diversify their livelihoods, it is essential that they are provided with a secure environment to fully benefit from digital platforms.”
The African Union Commission (AUC) is dedicated to enhancing digital access for youth and ensuring safe internet usage through initiatives like the Digital Transformation Strategy for Africa and the 1 Million Next Level Initiative. TikTok is unwavering in its commitment to user security, offering comprehensive Community Guidelines (https://apo-opa.co/490ZWXn) and strong moderation policies to empower users and foster a community-driven safety approach. Active user involvement is encouraged in upholding guidelines and promoting respectful interactions among users.
As TikTok and the African Union Commission collaborate, they reiterate their joint commitment to establishing a safer and more inclusive online environment for the youth in Africa. By combining technology and education, this partnership will provide young people with the necessary skills and assurance to navigate the digital landscape with prudence and security.
