TikTok on Tuesday announced an additional US$200,000 in ad credits to support local organisations across Sub-Saharan Africa in expanding AI media literacy, reinforcing the company’s commitment to safer digital spaces.
The announcement was made during TikTok’s third annual Sub-Saharan Africa Safer Internet Summit, held in Nairobi, under the theme #SaferTogether: Innovation and Safety. The two-day gathering brought together government officials, regulators, online safety partners, and industry leaders to discuss collaborative approaches to online safety.
The US$200,000 boost builds on TikTok’s initial US$2 million AI Literacy Fund launched in November 2025, which supported 20 global nonprofits creating educational content to increase public understanding of AI.
In Sub-Saharan Africa, TikTok initially partnered with three organisations to advance digital literacy and combat misinformation:
- Mtoto News – producing educational content to help children and adolescents understand and responsibly engage with AI technology.
- Africa Check – expanding fact-checking across Nigeria, South Africa, and Kenya, providing tools to detect AI-generated misinformation and deepfakes.
- Centre for Journalism Innovation and Development – a technology and knowledge think tank supporting African media, including its independent fact-checking platform DUBAWA, promoting truth in public discourse and combating information disorder.
Valiant Richey, Global Head of Partnerships, Elections & Market Integrity at TikTok, said the initiative aims to empower online communities to engage responsibly with AI. “We are partnering with trusted local organisations that communities already know and rely on, because their expertise and deep local connections are essential to making AI literacy programmes truly impactful,” he said.
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Tokunbo Ibrahim, Head of Government Relations and Public Policy, Sub-Saharan Africa at TikTok, emphasised the Summit’s role in advancing regional cooperation. “By bringing together policymakers, tech innovators, and creators, we ensure discussions lead to actionable solutions that protect citizens online and build a resilient digital landscape,” he said.
The Summit featured panels on TikTok’s trust and safety efforts, protecting young users online, and frameworks for responsible AI governance.
William Kabogo praised the initiative, noting it reflects the government’s commitment to collaboration, sector growth, and a secure digital environment. “As we embrace the opportunities of the digital era, we must advance digital innovation, responsible AI governance, and strong regional partnerships for a safe and thriving online ecosystem,” he said.
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TikTok’s investment in AI literacy also highlights the company’s focus on using AI responsibly to enhance creativity while providing transparency tools to help users identify, shape, and understand AI-generated content.
Analysts say the move strengthens TikTok’s regional engagement and sets a precedent for tech companies supporting media literacy and digital safety in Sub-Saharan Africa.
