Tag: TikTok news

Report Shows A Drop in Explicit Content on TikTok in Kenya

Posted on by Baba Ghafla

TikTok’s latest Community Guidelines Enforcement Report for the third quarter reveals a slight decrease in the number of inappropriate videos removed in Kenya compared to the previous quarter. Over 334,000 videos were taken down, with 88.9% removed before being viewed and 93% within 24 hours of posting.

This number is down from the second quarter, where over 360,000 videos were removed, representing approximately 0.3% of all videos uploaded in Kenya during that period.

The Q3 report highlights that the majority of removed videos in Kenya fell under categories like integrity and authenticity (99.7% removed proactively, 94% within 24 hours), mental and behavioral health (99.9% proactively, 96.4% within 24 hours), youth safety and well-being (99.7% proactively, 94.3% within 24 hours), and sensitive and mature themes (99.5% proactively, 95.8% within 24 hours). The platform emphasized its localized content screening strategy in Kenya, suggesting a tailored approach to moderation in the country.

This report comes after facing criticism in 2023 regarding content moderation. A petition to Parliament, citing concerns about explicit content and a lack of moderation, sparked a national debate and led to TikTok executives appearing before the Parliamentary Petitions Committee. While a complete ban was rejected, the committee recommended improvements to TikTok’s moderation strategy, including establishing a Kenyan office.

Globally, TikTok removed over 147 million videos in Q3, with 118 million identified and removed by automated systems, demonstrating a 98.2% proactive detection rate. The platform stated its commitment to building a safe environment for Kenyan users through investment in technology, safety teams, and local partnerships. “These efforts demonstrate a proactive detection rate of 98.2%, setting a high standard for content moderation globally. In Kenya, TikTok’s localized enforcement of its policies underscores its commitment to meeting the unique needs of its growing user base,” the report stated.

The Dark Side of Kenyan TikTok: A Growing Concern

Posted on by Baba Ghafla
In recent years, TikTok has swept through Kenya, captivating millions with its short-form videos. From dance challenges to lip-sync battles, the platform has become a cultural phenomenon, offering a space for creativity, entertainment, and social interaction. However, beneath its vibrant surface lies a more troubling reality, one that reveals the darker aspects of this digital entertainment hub.
TikTok’s appeal is undeniable. With an estimated 54% of Kenyans using the app for general purposes, according to the Reuters Institute Digital News Report 2023, it’s clear that the platform has a massive footprint in the country. Yet, this popularity also brings with it several issues that warrant a closer look.

Ethnic Tensions and Misinformation

One of the most alarming aspects is the platform’s potential to amplify ethnic tensions and spread misinformation. Reports have highlighted how TikTok has been used to stir up tribal hatred during election periods. The platform’s algorithm, which creates echo chambers, can reinforce biases and misinformation, especially during politically sensitive times. The Kenyan elections of 2022, for example, were marred by such online propaganda, where slickly produced, misleading content went viral, potentially influencing public opinion and even inciting violence.

Exploitation and Hypersexualization

The dark side extends into the personal realm as well. There have been numerous accounts that have noted a shift in content, especially during late-night hours. Reports suggest that TikTok has become a space where some individuals, including minors, are exploited for financial gain through explicit content. This has raised concerns about the hypersexualization of young users, with some parents allegedly involved in these exploitative practices. The presence of such content not only questions the platform’s moderation capabilities but also poses significant risks to the mental and emotional health of its younger audience.

Cyberbullying and Predatory Behavior

Cyberbullying on TikTok is another grim reality. The platform, like many social media outlets, has become a breeding ground for harassment, where anonymity emboldens individuals to engage in behavior that they might not in person. Moreover, the app has been criticized for not doing enough to protect its users from sexual predators, who use the platform to target minors. This has led to calls for more robust safety measures, including better AI-driven content filtering and more human moderators focused on African contexts.

Cultural Impact and Addiction

The cultural impact of TikTok in Kenya is profound, but not always positive. There’s a growing concern over addiction, with some posts on X highlighting that even older generations are becoming engrossed, to the point of neglecting other responsibilities. This digital distraction can lead to a decline in academic performance, as noted by critics like Mr. Ndolo, who has petitioned for stricter controls or even a ban on the app in Kenya. The addictive nature of TikTok, where users can get lost in an endless scroll of content, poses a significant challenge to mental health, especially when it becomes a substitute for real-life interactions and responsibilities.

Government and Community Response

The Kenyan government has recognized these issues and has proposed a regulatory rather than prohibitory approach. Instead of banning TikTok, as some have suggested, the government recommends co-regulation, where the platform itself must comply more stringently with local laws regarding content and user protection. This move acknowledges the platform’s utility while aiming to curb its darker aspects.

Why MrBeast Is Eager to Acquire TikTok

Posted on by Ozymandias

American YouTuber MrBeast has expressed interest in purchasing TikTok to prevent its potential ban in the United States. This follows weeks of speculation after the former president announced plans to prohibit the platform.

TikTok, with over 170 million US users, faces a looming deadline of January 19th to avoid a ban unless the court rules in its favor or ByteDance, its Chinese parent company, divests ownership.

Posting on his X account, MrBeast wrote, “Okay fine, I’ll buy TikTok so it doesn’t get banned,” sparking conversations online about the platform’s uncertain future.

Under current law, TikTok must be sold to a US-based company or face prohibition. In April, Congress voted to enforce the ban unless ByteDance divests its US operations by the January deadline. Rumors suggest that ByteDance may be in talks with billionaire Elon Musk to facilitate a deal.

According to The Guardian, TikTok’s US operations could either be sold through a competitive bidding process or be subject to government intervention, highlighting that control over the app might now be out of ByteDance’s hands. China’s government holds a “golden share” in ByteDance, raising concerns among US lawmakers about Beijing’s influence over TikTok.

If negotiations proceed, Musk’s platform, X, could potentially take over TikTok’s US operations and manage it collaboratively.

Can MrBeast Afford TikTok?

MrBeast, whose estimated net worth is approximately $1 billion, has amassed his wealth through YouTube, merchandise, businesses like MrBeast Burger and Feastables, and other entrepreneurial ventures.

However, acquiring TikTok would be a monumental challenge. Factors such as TikTok’s user base, revenue streams (from ads and subscriptions), growth potential, and intellectual property significantly influence its valuation. ByteDance, TikTok’s parent company, was valued at over $180 billion in 2021, though this figure includes all of its assets, not just TikTok.

While MrBeast’s fortune is impressive, it falls short of the resources needed to purchase a global platform like TikTok.

Sueh Owino and Wadagliz Dominate TikTok’s Top Viral Trends in Kenya for 2024

Posted on by Ozymandias

For many Kenyans, 2024 has been a year of extremes, marked by significant challenges that earned it the label “annus horribilis.” From political unrest, including maandamano and the “reject and inject” movements, to economic struggles with tax controversies and other upheavals, it has undoubtedly been a difficult year. Adding to the strain, the leadership of a neighboring country appeared to revel in Kenya’s struggles.

Yet, amidst the adversity, some Kenyans have provided much-needed relief, bringing smiles to their fellow citizens through entertaining content on social media. On TikTok, these creators stood out in 2024, producing viral content that offered a brief escape from the harsh realities of life. According to TikTok’s analysis, based on both in-app and third-party insights from January to November, these individuals and groups emerged as the platform’s top trending creators in Kenya:

Ayuni Nyapolo (Mother of Gospel Singer Jabidii)

Ayuni became an internet sensation alongside her son, Jabidii, thanks to their viral gospel collaboration, Miel Matin. The song, which sparked a TikTok challenge, amused Kenyans with Ayuni’s vibrant dance moves and performance. Many TikTok users created their own renditions of the song, which garnered over 2.8 million views across two video versions on YouTube.

Sueh Owino

Famous for her signature “cooking for my husband” videos, Sueh Owino took TikTok by storm in late 2023. Her unique content, showcasing traditional Kenyan recipes, is always accompanied by Mbosso’s song Shetani in the background. With 576,000 TikTok followers and over 15 million likes on her videos, Sueh has become a culinary icon, celebrating Kenya’s rich food heritage.

Claire Wamboi (Shawrey 4 Movie Reviews)

Known as June Claire Dontre, Claire Wamboi has gained a dedicated following for her insightful movie reviews. Her fresh perspectives on the latest films have created a community of film enthusiasts who value her recommendations.

Bite Buddies

A haven for food lovers, Bite Buddies explores Kenya’s vibrant street food scene. Their content highlights hidden culinary gems and celebrates the country’s diverse food culture.

Wadagliz

This rap duo, consisting of Kantel Mdagliz and Manna Zoggo, went viral with their anthem Anguka Nayo. The song became the unofficial soundtrack of Kenya’s Gen Z protests, resonating with Kenyans and gaining international recognition for its unifying message.

Rajvir Soin

Rajvir Soin showcases Kenya’s breathtaking travel destinations on TikTok, taking his followers on scenic journeys that reveal the country’s natural beauty and hidden treasures.

Adam Sebastian Fempe

A Tanzanian travel creator, Fempe has captivated audiences with his public interviews featuring tourists. His content provides a global perspective on Kenya’s tourist hotspots, further promoting the country’s attractions.

Connie Nganga

Connie has carved a niche as a food influencer, uncovering Nairobi’s best and most affordable dining spots. Her content has become a go-to guide for those seeking hidden culinary gems in the city.

Sean Mwaniki

Musician and dancer Sean Mwaniki turned his hit song Magi Magi into a viral TikTok sensation. His energetic performances and catchy tunes have built a strong brand that resonates with his audience.

These creators have used their talents to uplift spirits and foster unity during a challenging year, becoming the faces of TikTok’s most viral trends in Kenya for 2024.

TikTok Releases Report on Its Efforts to Address Content Moderation Challenges in Kenya

Posted on by Ozymandias

In its recent report on Kenya, TikTok has outlined its efforts to address content moderation issues that have sparked debate in the country. Last year, a petition was presented to parliament calling for the ban of TikTok, accusing the platform of failing to filter inappropriate content. In response, TikTok defended its practices during an April appearance before the Parliament’s Public Participation Committee, promising to enhance its content moderation measures.

In September, the committee decided against banning the platform but recommended that TikTok improve its moderation efforts. In its Q2 2024 Community Guidelines Enforcement report, TikTok detailed its ongoing efforts to maintain transparency in its moderation process in Kenya. The report revealed that over 360,000 videos were removed for violating TikTok’s policies, which accounts for 0.3% of all videos uploaded in the country during the quarter. The majority (99.1%) of these videos were taken down proactively before users could report them, with 95% of removals happening within 24 hours.

Additionally, TikTok suspended 60,465 accounts for policy violations, including 57,262 accounts suspected to belong to users under 13, in line with its policy to protect younger audiences from inappropriate content. With its vast user base and daily video uploads, TikTok continues to invest in advanced moderation technologies. In June 2024, it removed over 178 million videos globally, 144 million of which were automatically detected and removed. TikTok’s proactive detection rate stands at 98.2%, driven by AI-powered tools that quickly identify and remove harmful content, often before it can be seen by viewers.

TikTok: The New Soundstage for Rising Stars

Posted on by Baba Ghafla

In the ever-evolving landscape of music marketing, TikTok has emerged as the undisputed champion. Once a platform known primarily for short-form dance videos, TikTok has rapidly transformed into a powerful tool for musicians to launch their careers and reach global audiences.

Digital distribution

One of the most significant advantages of TikTok is its algorithm. It is designed specifically to promote content that resonates with users. This means that even a small account with a few thousand followers can have their videos go viral, potentially reaching millions of people overnight. This organic reach is a dream come true for musicians, who often struggle to get their music heard on traditional platforms.

Youth focus

Moreover, TikTok’s user base is overwhelmingly young and engaged. This demographic is highly receptive to new music and are more likely to discover and share songs through the platform. Musicians can leverage TikTok to create viral challenges, remixes, and other engaging content. This encourages users to share their creations with their friends and followers.

Furthermore, TikTok has become a hub for music discovery. Users can easily find new artists and songs through the platform’s search function, curated playlists, and personalized recommendations. This has made it easier for musicians to build a loyal fanbase and generate buzz around their music.

However, it’s important to note that success on TikTok requires more than just posting videos. Musicians need to create content that is visually appealing, catchy, and authentic. They also need to engage with their followers by responding to comments and messages. By building a strong community on TikTok, musicians can foster a sense of loyalty and support among their fans.

In conclusion, TikTok has revolutionized the music industry by providing musicians with a powerful platform to reach new audiences and build a fanbase. By understanding the platform’s algorithm and creating engaging content, musicians can leverage TikTok to achieve their career goals and become the next big stars.

“Your life has already been a failure!” Woman tells unmarried women over thirty

Posted on by Ozymandias

A woman has sparked controversy on the TikTok platform by creating videos criticizing women who are not in romantic relationships, especially those over the age of 30.

According to her, any woman who reaches 30 without a stable marriage and financial security is deemed unworthy. She asserted that women over 30 without a husband and financial stability should reflect on themselves and perceive their situation as a significant failure in life.

“If you’re a woman in your 30s without a partner and lacking a good career, a thriving business, or enjoying the pleasures of youth, I’m sorry to say that you’ve failed in life,” she stated.

She further questioned what women in their 20s were doing, a time she believed should have been dedicated to self-improvement, career advancement, and financial stability.

“What were you doing in your 20s? That was the time for personal growth. Why didn’t you invest in yourself, your business, or your career? By your 30s, you should be planning for retirement. It’s time to retire from frivolity and focus on your goals,” she emphasized.

She warned that women who haven’t planned their lives by 30 may face depression and psychological challenges, suggesting that unmarried women of that age might be seen as threats by their married friends.

“If you haven’t sorted yourself out by this age, you’re heading towards stress. Consider this, if you’re 30 and single, your married friends might see you as a threat, thinking you’re after their men,” she concluded.

Facebook remains king of social media in Africa

Posted on by Ozymandias

Facebook remains the most popular social media platform in Africa, despite the growing popularity of TikTok.

A recent Social Media Usage report by GeoPoll reveals that the number of social media users in Africa has steadily increased, with the total now surpassing 384 million. Facebook maintains its dominant position with a staggering 170 million active users, accounting for approximately 44% of Africa’s social media enthusiasts.

TikTok, while gaining ground rapidly, stands as the second most engaging platform with a 60% active user rate, indicating its surging popularity among African youth. Instagram follows closely with a 54% user engagement rate, while Twitter and LinkedIn hold respective active user percentages of 49% and 28%.

The GeoPoll report further delves into the different purposes that drive African users to each social media platform.

Communication, entertainment, news, and updates were identified as key drivers of social media usage on the continent. For instance, 68% of surveyed users turn to social media platforms to discover news and stay updated on current events. In contrast, Facebook serves as a platform for socializing, with 49% of users using it to make new friends and engage in social interactions.

TikTok has carved a niche as an entertainment and learning platform. An impressive 73% of respondents use TikTok primarily for watching and sharing short-form videos, while 72% view it as a source of entertainment. Remarkably, 61% of users turn to TikTok as a learning platform to acquire new skills, underscoring its educational value despite concerns about sexualized content.

Instagram stands out as a trend-following platform, with 61% of users using it to keep up with the latest trends and follow influencers and celebrities. Additionally, 59% of users utilize Instagram as a visual memory vault, uploading photos and moments that matter to them.

Unsurprisingly, Twitter emerged as the go-to platform for staying updated on news and current affairs, with 78% of respondents citing it as their primary use. Additionally, 59% use Twitter to connect with like-minded individuals and engage in thought-provoking discussions and debates.

LinkedIn remains firmly rooted in its professional niche, with 87% of active users turning to the platform for job hunting and career advancement.

The GeoPoll survey also examined the impact of social media on African users.

An overwhelming 80% of respondents admitted to purchasing a product or service advertised on social media, highlighting the pivotal role that social media plays in e-commerce and advertising in Africa. Due to the ease of access provided by mobile phones, Africans spend an average of 3 to 6 hours per day on social media platforms. Interestingly, 61% of those surveyed reported that social media has positively impacted their mental health.

GeoPoll conducted this insightful survey in four African countries—Ghana, Kenya, Nigeria, and South Africa—in August 2023, gathering data from 4,170 participants. The report provides valuable insights into Africa’s evolving social media landscape and its multifaceted influence on the continent’s diverse population.

In conclusion, Facebook remains the most popular social media platform in Africa, but TikTok is gaining ground rapidly. African users turn to different platforms for different purposes, with communication, entertainment, news, and updates being the key drivers of social media usage on the continent.

Social media plays a significant role in e-commerce and advertising in Africa, and it has a positive impact on the mental health of many users.

President Ruto & TikTok CEO Agree To Remove Inappropriate Content

Posted on by Dennis Elnino

Kenyan President William Ruto and TikTok CEO Shou Zi Chew have agreed to remove all inappropriate and offensive content from the platform. The two leaders met on Thursday, August 24, 2023, and discussed ways to ensure that TikTok is a safe and positive platform for all users.

Ruto said that the government of Kenya has partnered with TikTok to monitor and review content. He stressed that the move is necessary to protect children and other vulnerable users from harmful content.

Chew assured Kenyans that TikTok will establish a Kenyan office that will coordinate operations in the continent. He also promised to employ more Kenyans to work for the platform.

“We are committed to ensuring that TikTok is a safe and positive platform for all users,” Chew said. “We will work closely with the Kenyan government to remove all inappropriate and offensive content.”

The agreement between Kenya and TikTok is a positive step towards making the platform a more safe and positive space for all users. It is also a sign of the growing importance of social media platforms in Africa.

The President’s concerns come amid a petition seeking the ban of the platform over inappropriate and explicit content displayed especially at night.

The petitioner, Ben Ndolo had alleged that the platform was promoting vulgarity, hate speech ], violence and explicit sexual content among young people.

He also fingered the Communications Authority (CA) for not regulating the platform appropriately.

Married Woman Clashes with Husband’s Best Friend Over Cooking For Him

Posted on by Ozymandias

A married woman in Kenya is in a feud with her husband’s best friend after the best friend cooked for her husband even though she knows it is the wife’s duty.

The woman, who has not been named, took to TikTok to vent her frustrations about the situation. She said that her husband had invited the best friend to live with them temporarily because she was having accommodation issues. However, the best friend has taken the invite too far and has become too comfortable, cooking for the husband and acting like she is also married to him.

In the video, the wife can be seen confronting the best friend about the food she cooked. She says that she just came back from the market and was planning to cook for her husband, but the best friend had already beaten her to it.

The best friend defends herself, saying that she cooked the food because she wanted to be helpful. She also says that she is not trying to steal the husband away from the wife.

The wife is not convinced by the best friend’s explanation and tells her that she needs to leave the house. The best friend refuses to leave and tells the wife that she is not going anywhere.

The two women continue to argue and the situation escalates. The wife tries to take the food away from the best friend, but the best friend grabs it back and says that she cooked it for her “baby.”

The husband is not home at the time of the incident, but he is likely to be aware of it by now. It is unclear how he will react to the situation, but it is clear that the wife and the best friend are not on good terms.

The incident is a reminder of the importance of boundaries in relationships. It is also a reminder that even the best of friends can sometimes cross the line.

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Kenya is the world’s top TikTok user for news

Posted on by Ozymandias

A new report from the Reuters Institute Digital News Reports 2023 shows that Kenya is the world’s top TikTok user for news.

The report found that 54% of Kenyans use TikTok for any purpose, and 29% use it for news. This is significantly higher than the global average of 10%.

Other countries with high rates of TikTok news use include Thailand (30%), South Africa (22%), and Peru (30%).

The report suggests that TikTok is gaining ground in the distribution of news, particularly among younger audiences. This is likely due to the platform’s short-form videos, which are well-suited for sharing news stories.

The report also found that users of TikTok, Instagram, and Snapchat tend to pay more attention to celebrities and social media influencers than media companies when it comes to news topics. This is in contrast to legacy social networks such as Facebook and Twitter, where news organizations still attract the most attention and lead conversations.

In terms of growth, TikTok remains the fastest-growing social network, with 44% of users using it. The platform is popular with 18-24 year olds, and is heavily used in parts of Asia, Latin America, and Africa.

The report also found that audiences continue to selectively avoid important stories, such as the cost of living, as they cut back on depressing news and seek to protect their mental health.

Key takeaways:

  • Kenya is the world’s top TikTok user for news.
  • TikTok is gaining ground in the distribution of news, particularly among younger audiences.
  • Users of TikTok, Instagram, and Snapchat tend to pay more attention to celebrities and social media influencers than media companies when it comes to news topics.
  • TikTok remains the fastest-growing social network, and is popular with 18-24 year olds.
  • Audiences continue to selectively avoid important stories, such as the cost of living.