TikTok has announced a $2.3 million expansion of its mental health fund. This was revealed during the Digital Wellbeing Summit in Johannesburg.
Fund Expansion
As part of the expansion, TikTok's mental health fund will provide financial support to three mental health organizations in Africa. The expansion was announced by Fortune Mgwili-Sibanda, TikTok's Public Policy and Government Relations Director for Sub-Saharan Africa.
Support for African Organizations
The three organizations benefiting from the funding include the South African Depression and Anxiety Group (SADAG), Kenya's Mental 360, and Nigeria's Mentally Aware Nigeria Initiative (MANI). These organizations will utilize the fund’s resources to produce content aimed at increasing mental health awareness.
Impact on Mentally Aware Nigeria Initiative
Mentally Aware Nigeria Initiative was founded in 2015 and aims to assist individuals in need of mental health support. Their operations are largely self-funded, and TikTok's support will enhance their outreach and educational programs. The Operations Manager, Motunrayo Balogun, expressed that the funding will help them spread essential mental health information to a wider audience.
The fund expansion represents a significant step toward supporting organizations addressing mental health challenges in Africa. TikTok continues to actively engage in social initiatives aimed at enhancing user wellbeing.
