TikTok expands mental health commitment across Africa at inaugural Digital Well-being Summit

TikTok convened its inaugural Digital Well-being Summit in Johannesburg, drawing stakeholders from across Sub-Saharan Africa to advance discussions on online safety, mental health, and digital literacy.

The event brought together policymakers, mental health experts, NGOs, and industry leaders from South Africa, Kenya, Nigeria, Ghana, Ethiopia, Zimbabwe, and beyond.

The summit created a platform for dialogue on how to improve digital safety tools, increase access to expert support, and promote balanced online experiences for users, particularly the youth.

During the summit, TikTok introduced a range of new tools and expanded initiatives designed to strengthen community well-being on the platform.

This included the extension of TikTok’s $2.3 million global Mental Health Education Fund to Sub-Saharan Africa, the launch of an in-app meditation feature, and the introduction of localized mental health helplines.

“We commend the private sector’s efforts to foster digital literacy and create a safer online environment for all. Such efforts reflect the government and the private sector’s collective responsibility to inspire creativity, empower communities, and connect young people to the digital world,” said Hon. Minister Siviwe Gwarube, South Africa’s Minister of Basic Education.

TikTok announced that its new guided meditation experience, now integrated into the Sleep Hours well-being feature, is available globally.

This feature is automatically enabled at 22:00 for users under the age of 18, with others able to opt in manually.

First piloted in March 2025, the meditation tool aims to support users in managing their digital habits and nighttime routines.

Research indicates that mindful meditation can positively affect sleep quality and emotional well-being.

The rollout of this tool aligns with TikTok’s broader goal of encouraging healthy digital behaviours among adolescents navigating an increasingly connected world.

“People come to TikTok to learn, share their experiences, and connect with communities around the world,” said Valiant Richey, TikTok Global Head of Trust and Safety Outreach and Partnerships.

“That’s why we’re proud to introduce tools that not only support digital wellbeing, but also empower our community, especially young users, with a safe, supportive space to explore and navigate complex emotions.”

In a significant development, TikTok announced the inclusion of African organisations in its global Mental Health Education Fund for the first time.

The three inaugural recipients from the region are the South African Depression and Anxiety Group (SADAG), Mentally Aware Nigeria Initiative, and Mental360 from Kenya.

These groups will receive funding and support to create locally relevant, evidence-based content that addresses mental health stigma and promotes open dialogue in their communities.

TikTok established the Mental Health Education Fund in 2023 to support organisations in developing authoritative and engaging mental health content.

Globally, the fund has helped participating organisations generate more than 173 million content impressions, acquire over 600,000 new followers, drive more than 200,000 web visits, and recruit 486 volunteers, supported by a total of $7.3 million in advertising credits.

TikTok also shared plans to expand in-app helpline services to African markets.

Following a successful pilot in France and rollout across several European countries, the platform will now provide access to local helplines for users in select African nations.

When reporting content related to suicide, self-harm, hate, or harassment, users will be directed to mental health partners offering services such as free counselling, expert advice, and psychological support.

This in-app support works alongside TikTok’s content review systems and community guidelines enforcement, offering an additional layer of care for users who may be at risk or in distress.

To further enhance trusted communication around mental health, TikTok introduced its first cohort of Mental Health Ambassadors from Africa.

These professionals are part of the World Health Organization’s Fides Network and will use their verified profiles to share credible, relevant mental health information with TikTok audiences.

The inaugural group includes:
– Sanam Naran (South Africa)
– Dr Claire Kinuthia (Kenya)
– Doctor Wales (Nigeria)
– Doctor Siya (South Africa)

Their presence on the platform aims to foster engagement around emotional well-being while countering misinformation and stigma.

The Digital Well-being Summit forms part of TikTok’s broader strategy to invest in digital safety, collaborate with local and global partners, and create healthier online spaces for users across Africa.

“At Spectra, we are excited to be partnering with TikTok and believe technology should enhance human wellbeing and ensure safety at every touchpoint. Our partnership with TikTok for the Summit reflects our shared vision of creating digital environments that are not only innovative but also secure and supportive,” said Yusuf Akoojee, Marketing Director at Spectra.

“Together, we’re advancing solutions that prioritise both mental health and online safety for communities everywhere.”

TikTok has signaled that these developments are only the beginning of a longer-term investment in building digital environments that protect, educate, and uplift its African communities.