Nominated ODM MP Irene Mayaka has called for the regulation of TikTok in Kenya, stressing that a complete ban could stifle innovation and hinder opportunities for young creators.
Her remarks came during a parliamentary debate following recommendations from the National Assembly Committee on Public Petitions.
The debate follows a petition by Mr. Bob Ndolo, who asked Parliament to ban TikTok, citing concerns over its content and influence on young Kenyans.
After consulting stakeholders, including tech experts and content creators, the committee concluded that banning the platform would be counterproductive.
Instead, it recommended measures to regulate its operations, safeguard users, and ensure responsible content creation.
“Last evening in Bunge, my remarks were in support of regulation rather than a ban of TikTok in Kenya,” Mayaka said. “It is important to ensure that even as we seek to regulate, we do not stifle innovation.”
She emphasized that Kenya’s creative economy, particularly among youth, benefits from social media platforms that allow for skill development, networking, and income generation.
Mayaka also addressed misinformation circulating online regarding her comments. A TikToker had claimed she stated that Kenyan TikTokers earn two billion shillings annually.
She clarified that her reference was to the average annual earnings of the world’s top ten TikTokers, not Kenyan creators.
“Parliament is not debating to ban TikTok; the debate is about its regulation,” Mayaka said. “The committee of Public Petitions, after deliberations, made a clear recommendation that we cannot ban TikTok in Kenya, rather regulate it. Let us avoid gaslighting with unverified claims; it is not healthy.”
The MP urged her colleagues and the public to focus on factual discussions and constructive solutions.
She highlighted that the platform offers significant benefits, including entertainment, learning, and potential revenue for creators, but also acknowledged the need for mechanisms that protect vulnerable users from harmful content.
Regulation proposals under consideration include mandatory age verification, content moderation, and transparency in advertising practices.
The committee aims to balance user safety with support for digital innovation, ensuring that Kenya’s creative economy continues to grow without exposing young users to undue risks.
With Parliament set to finalize discussions on the matter, Mayaka’s stance reflects a broader push in Kenya to embrace technology responsibly, safeguarding users while allowing social media platforms to thrive.