TikTok has announced a significant expansion of its global mental health initiatives, unveiling a KSh297 million ($2.3 million) Mental Health Education Fund tailored for Sub-Saharan Africa, alongside enhanced in-app safety tools and the appointment of new Mental Health Ambassadors.
This announcement was made during the platform's inaugural Digital Well-being Summit, held in Johannesburg, South Africa.
The summit brought together key stakeholders from across the region, including policymakers, mental health professionals, NGOs, digital safety advocates, and TikTok creators.
Delegates from Kenya, Nigeria, Ghana, Ethiopia, South Africa, Zimbabwe, and other Sub-Saharan nations convened to strengthen efforts aimed at fostering a safer, more inclusive digital space.
A central theme of the summit was the urgent need for platforms like TikTok to take active roles in promoting mental well-being and digital literacy, particularly among young users. The gathering served as a platform for open dialogue on online safety, access to mental health support, and responsible digital engagement.
Expansion of Mental Health Tools and Features
One of the most groundbreaking announcements was the launch of a new in-app guided meditation tool, introduced under the Sleep Hours feature.
This function, automatically enabled at 10:00 p.m. for users under the age of 18, allows teens to engage in mindfulness and guided relaxation before bedtime. Older users have the option to turn on the feature manually. Piloted earlier in 2025, the tool is now available globally.
“Research consistently shows that mindfulness and meditation can significantly improve sleep quality and emotional regulation,” said Valiant Richey, TikTok’s Global Head of Trust and Safety Outreach and Partnerships. “We want to support our users, especially teens, in developing healthier online habits and routines.”
Mental Health Education Fund Reaches African Communities
The highlight of TikTok's announcement was the expansion of its Mental Health Education Fund to include Sub-Saharan African organisations. This marks a major milestone for the platform in addressing region-specific mental health challenges.
Three organisations were named as inaugural recipients:
Mental360 (Kenya)
Mentally Aware Nigeria Initiative (Nigeria)
South African Depression and Anxiety Group (SADAG)
These organisations will receive both funding and platform support to create evidence-based, culturally relevant content aimed at raising awareness, combating stigma, and promoting open dialogue around mental health within African communities.
Since its inception in 2023, the global Mental Health Education Fund has generated over 173 million content impressions, 600,000 new followers for partner organisations, and helped recruit nearly 500 volunteers, thanks to $7.3 million in ad credit donations.
Helpline Support and Local Partnerships
Building on its existing features in Europe, TikTok announced the expansion of in-app mental health helplines to several African countries. These helplines will provide real-time support and resources to users who report or encounter sensitive content related to self-harm, suicide, bullying, or hate speech.
This addition reinforces TikTok's approach of not only removing harmful content but also connecting users to local support services. Services include counselling, psychological support, and referrals to mental health professionals.
Introduction of Mental Health Ambassadors
In collaboration with the World Health Organization’s Fides Network, TikTok introduced its first cohort of Mental Health Ambassadors for Africa. These verified healthcare professionals will use the platform to provide expert insights, promote mental health awareness, and offer relatable, fact-based guidance to TikTok’s growing African audience.
The inaugural ambassadors include:
Sanam Naran (South Africa)
Dr Claire Kinuthia (Kenya)
Doctor Wales (Nigeria)
Doctor Siya (South Africa)
A Public-Private Push for Digital Wellbeing
Addressing the summit, Hon. Siviwe Gwarube, South Africa’s Minister of Basic Education, praised TikTok’s initiatives, stating, “We commend the private sector’s efforts to foster digital literacy and create a safer online environment. These actions show the power of public-private partnerships to empower communities and inspire creativity.”
The Digital Well-being Summit reflects TikTok’s broader strategy to lead in digital safety innovation across Africa through empathy, collaboration, and proactive action. By uniting technology with social responsibility, TikTok is setting a new standard for online platforms striving to be a positive force in society.
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