TikTok launches Digital Well-being Summit in Africa, expands mental health support

SOUTH AFRICA—TikTok has held its first-ever Digital Well-being Summit in Johannesburg, South Africa, bringing together a diverse group of policymakers, mental health experts, NGOs, and industry leaders from across Sub-Saharan Africa.

Delegates from countries including South Africa, Kenya, Nigeria, Ghana, Ethiopia, and Zimbabwe gathered to strengthen efforts aimed at supporting and protecting the well-being of TikTok’s community on the platform.

The summit served as an important platform for open discussions on improving online safety tools, promoting digital literacy, and increasing access to mental health experts. It also focused on fostering a balanced and positive online environment for all users.

During the event, TikTok announced several new initiatives designed to enhance digital well-being in the region.

Notably, the company expanded its global $2.3 million mental health fund to include Sub-Saharan Africa for the first time.

This expansion will support local organizations in creating relevant, evidence-based mental health content that raises awareness, reduces stigma, and encourages open conversations about mental health in African communities.

Three organizations were selected as the inaugural recipients of this funding: the South African Depression and Anxiety Group (SADAG), the Mentally Aware Nigeria Initiative, and Kenya’s Mental360.

These groups will receive both financial support and platform resources to help amplify their mental health education efforts.

In addition to funding, TikTok introduced new in-app features to support users’ mental health.

One of the most innovative tools is a guided meditation experience available through the Sleep Hours feature.

Automatically activated at 10 PM for users under 18, this feature helps young people relax and develop healthier sleep routines.

Users over 18 can also choose to enable it. Research shows that mindful meditation can improve sleep quality and emotional regulation, which is especially important for teens navigating the pressures of a hyper-connected world.

Valiant Richey, TikTok’s Global Head of Trust and Safety Outreach and Partnerships, highlighted that TikTok is a place where people come to learn, share, and connect.

He emphasized that the new tools not only support digital well-being but also empower the community, especially young users, by providing a safe and supportive space to explore complex emotions.

The summit also showcased TikTok’s ongoing initiatives, such as the #MentalHealthMatters campaign, which promotes positive mental health practices worldwide.

Building on successful pilots in Europe, TikTok is expanding local in-app helpline resources across Africa. In the coming weeks, users in select African countries will have access to local helplines directly within the app.

These helplines offer expert support for issues related to suicide, self-harm, hate, and harassment, complementing existing features that provide mental health resources when users report bullying or harassment.

Furthermore, TikTok announced the launch of its Mental Health Ambassadors program in partnership with the World Health Organization (WHO).

This initiative features verified healthcare professionals from the WHO Fides Network, including Sanam Naran and Doctor Siya from South Africa, Dr. Claire Kinuthia from Kenya, and Doctor Wales from Nigeria.

 These ambassadors will help provide credible mental health information and support to TikTok’s African community.

Honorable Minister Siviwe Gwarube, South Africa’s Minister of Basic Education, praised the private sector’s role in advancing digital literacy and creating safer online spaces.

He emphasized that these efforts reflect a shared responsibility between government and industry to inspire creativity, empower communities, and connect young people to the digital world.

Yusuf Akoojee, Marketing Director at Spectra, expressed excitement about partnering with TikTok.

He noted that technology should enhance human well-being and ensure safety at every interaction.

Their collaboration reflects a shared vision of building digital environments that are both innovative and secure, prioritizing mental health and online safety for communities everywhere.

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