National Assembly Majority Leader Kimani Ichung’wah addressed concerns over TikTok, emphasizing that no outright ban is planned for the platform or other social media apps.
Speaking during deliberations on a long-standing petition (No. 41 of 2023) regarding TikTok regulation, Ichung’wah highlighted the growing moral concerns and erosion of decency on platforms like TikTok, which expose children to harmful content.
He stressed the need for responsible regulation to safeguard minors, protect Kenyan users’ data privacy, and uphold cultural values. “Regulation is not suppression. It is a responsibility,” Ichung’wah stated, clarifying that the goal is balance rather than prohibition.
The Public Petitions Committee report, under consideration, explicitly ruled out a total ban, noting it would infringe on fundamental rights and harm the digital economy. TikTok empowers thousands of Kenyan youth economically, creating real opportunities through content creation and entrepreneurship.
Recommendations include enhanced age verification, data localization within Kenya, stronger cybersecurity measures, and periodic compliance checks by state agencies. Ministries of Interior and Information, Communication & the Digital Economy are expected to report progress within four months.
This approach reflects a broader effort to protect vulnerable users while preserving innovation in Kenya’s thriving digital space.
Author: Bashirjuma
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