How to fix content moderation in Africa

Content moderation jobs are crucial in the digital age, serving as gatekeepers for harmful content on the internet. However, these roles often come with low pay, emotional strain, and high stress levels. In Africa, the working conditions of content moderators have sparked debates and controversies. Roselyn Odoyo, Senior Programme Officer at Mozilla in Kenya, shared insights on the evolution of the industry with CNBC Africa, shedding light on the challenges and efforts towards positive change. The content moderation sector in Africa is undergoing a shift, with a growing awareness among potential workers about the emotional and mental toll of the job. In the past, misconceptions surrounding the role led individuals to apply for these positions simply as a means of income. However, with increased awareness, outsourcing and subcontracting companies representing major tech firms are now required to clearly outline the responsibilities and challenges associated with content moderation. This heightened awareness has led to a rising demand for improved working conditions and an end to exploitative practices. Sweatshop conditions, once tolerated, are now being challenged, paving the way for a more labor-conscious approach to content moderation. Stakeholders such as governments and tech companies are being drawn into the conversation on labor rights, ensuring greater accountability and fairness. Recent decisions, like the tribunal ruling in Kenya holding META accountable for the actions of subcontractors, highlight the shifting dynamics in the industry. While progress is gradual, African content moderators are beginning to advocate for better conditions, although disparities with global standards still exist. The conversation on content moderation is gaining traction at the government level across many African countries. Previously, discussions on technology and AI were often seen as separate from real-world implications. However, a growing focus on labor conditions and rights is reshaping the narrative. The content moderation industry continues to expand in tandem with technological advancements and the ubiquitous presence of social media platforms. As online content proliferates, the need for human moderation remains essential to mitigate potential harm. The discourse has evolved beyond traditional concerns like hate speech to encompass a wider range of content-related issues, underscoring the significance of a vigilant moderation workforce. The case of Summer, a company subcontracted by Meta for content moderation in Kenya, brought to light critical issues within the industry. The closure of Summer jeopardized over 260 jobs, exposing employees to poor working conditions and mental health challenges. This incident emphasized the importance of fair labor practices and accountability within the tech industry. Responsibility falls on both tech companies and subcontractors to prioritize the well-being of workers and uphold ethical standards. Pay equity emerged as a key concern, urging tech giants to ensure fair compensation regardless of geographical location. Leveraging technology like AI and machine learning presents opportunities to alleviate the burden on content moderators. Implementing screening processes and predictive tools can provide early warnings and enable tailored support for moderators based on their exposure to harmful content. By integrating technology into content moderation, companies can enhance working conditions and adequately support their workforce across Africa.