Nairobi News

The Kenya Film Classification Board (KFCB) has joined hands with popular social media platform TikTok in a move to uphold cultural values and protect the Kenyan youth from inappropriate content.

The collaboration aims to ensure that the content shared on TikTok aligns with Kenya’s cultural norms, moral values, and national aspirations.

Joel Wamalwa, the Acting CEO of KFCB, expressed confidence in the partnership during a workshop held between TikTok and government agencies.

He pointed out KFCB’s role in regulating audiovisual content creation, broadcasting, distribution, and exhibition in Kenya.

Also read: Govt orders closure of quarry following complaints of environmental degradation

Wamalwa announced that TikTok had agreed to temporarily disable certain features to address concerns regarding inappropriate content, specifically, users who share obscene content will face immediate consequences.

Livestreams with inappropriate material will be halted within a minute, and those responsible for such content will be banned from using the platform. Furthermore, their devices will be unable to download TikTok following the ban.

“Our priority is to protect our minors from exposure to inappropriate content,” said Wamalwa, underscoring the board’s commitment to safeguarding the younger generation.

Also read: One governor with 51 personal advisers, another with school dropout as chief of staff

TikTok has also acknowledged the misuse of its live feature in Kenya, particularly for sexual solicitation, which goes against the platform’s community guidelines.

Fortune Mgwili-Sibanda, TikTok’s Director of Government Relations and Public Policy, recently told Nairobi News that TikTok is doubling down on its moderation systems to combat this issue.

He said over the last three months, TikTok had removed 91 million pieces of content globally for violating community guidelines, showing the company’s dedication to maintaining a safe and positive environment for users.

“Adult nudity and explicit content are strictly prohibited on TikTok, and our community guidelines are crystal clear about what is not allowed. We have implemented robust moderation measures to control and eliminate such content and issue bans to creators who persist in such behavior. Challenges will always be present, but our team is committed to making TikTok a place for fun and entertainment,” Mgwili-Sibanda said.

Also read: Why Cofek wants speed dial feature used by betting companies banned