Remembrance Vigil for Nigerian Content Moderator Highlights Industry Issues in Kenya

Technology workers in Kenya mourned their colleague Ladi Anzaki Olubunmi, a TikTok moderator who died after being unable to return to Nigeria for two years. Concerns regarding her death are linked to oppressive working conditions at subcontracted firms. Teleperformance denied allegations of denying leave. The incident points to broader issues within the tech labor environment and the need for reform.

In a poignant remembrance, technology workers in Nairobi, Kenya, gathered to pay tribute to their colleague, Ladi Anzaki Olubunmi, a TikTok content moderator. Tragically, she passed away under unclear circumstances after two years without visiting her home in Nigeria. Her decomposed body was found in her house three days after her death, raising questions about her wellbeing prior to her passing.

Colleagues reported that Olubunmi had expressed feelings of fatigue and a strong desire to return home. Despite inquiries by The Associated Press, Teleperformance Kenya, her employer, did not respond directly but dismissed claims regarding her denied leave as “baseless and untrue.” This incident has reignited concerns regarding the working conditions at subcontracted firms in Kenya, which many content moderators have described as substandard and oppressive.

Content moderators employed by subcontractors in Kenya have previously highlighted issues such as low wages, inadequate mental health support, excessive hours, and a culture of intimidation. Furthermore, over 100 former Facebook content moderators have taken legal action against the company, alleging poor conditions and unfair dismissals by its subcontractor, Samasource.

During the vigil, numerous colleagues voiced concerns that Olubunmi’s death may be linked to the adverse working conditions. Kauna Malgwi, a friend of the deceased, indicated that many Nigerian employees under Teleperformance have been unable to obtain work permits, effectively barring them from returning home despite having benefits that include annual return tickets.

Olubunmi’s family was notified of her death the day following the discovery of her body. Teleperformance reached out to her brother via email, providing him with contacts for local investigators regarding autopsy and burial arrangements. Malgwi further revealed that the family is struggling financially and might seek assistance from Olubunmi’s church for burial.

The vigil in Nairobi serves as a reminder of the challenges faced by content moderators, emphasizing the dire need for improved working conditions and support. Ladi Anzaki Olubunmi’s tragic passing has brought attention to the struggles of employees in the tech industry, particularly those working for subcontracted firms. It highlights the necessity for advocacy over labor rights and mental health support for workers in high-pressure environments.

Original Source: www.2news.com