Tragic Death of Kenyan Content Moderator Draws Attention to Worker Conditions

Ladi Anzaki Olubunmi, a TikTok content moderator in Kenya, was found dead after not being able to travel home to Nigeria for two years. Colleagues attribute her death to poor working conditions at Teleperformance, her employer, which has faced criticism regarding treatment of content moderators. The family struggles to afford repatriation, highlighting systemic issues within the tech industry.

In Nairobi, Kenya, technology workers commemorated Ladi Anzaki Olubunmi, a TikTok content moderator whose death remains surrounded by unclear circumstances. Olubunmi, who had not returned to her native Nigeria for two years, was found deceased in her home after going unresponsive for several days. Colleagues reported that she expressed feelings of fatigue and a longing to return home before her tragic passing.

Despite requests for comments from The Associated Press, Teleperformance Kenya, Olubunmi’s employer, did not respond. A statement from the company later dismissed claims of her being denied leave as unfounded. Worker advocacy has arisen as various content moderators have previously voiced concerns about inadequate pay, insufficient mental health support, extended work hours, and workplace intimidation.

Many of Olubunmi’s colleagues attribute her death to poor working conditions, which they suggest may have exacerbated her health issues. Kauna Malgwi, a friend of Olubunmi, highlighted that numerous Nigerians employed by Teleperformance have been unable to secure work permits for two years, preventing them from traveling home despite having annual return tickets.

Following the discovery of Olubunmi’s body, her family was alerted the next day. Teleperformance communicated with her brother, providing him with contact information for local authorities regarding the investigation, autopsy, and funeral arrangements. However, the family faces financial constraints in repatriating her body, potentially leading them to request assistance from her church in Nairobi to facilitate her burial.

The tragic death of Ladi Anzaki Olubunmi has drawn attention to the precarious working conditions faced by content moderators in Kenya, with many highlighting concerns over inadequate support and health issues. As calls for better treatment of tech workers grow, the need for reform in the industry is becoming increasingly clear. Olubunmi’s story reflects broader systemic challenges, particularly for expatriates such as the many Nigerians unable to travel home due to restrictive work conditions.

Original Source: www.bowenislandundercurrent.com