Kenyan content creator Tonka has ignited a conversation online after questioning why some people are uncomfortable being filmed in public, arguing that recording everyday moments has become part of modern life.
Speaking during a recent interview, Tonka said he struggles to understand why some members of the public object to appearing in videos shared by content creators and livestreamers.
“Why do people have a problem with being filmed? It doesn’t make sense in my reality.”
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He went on to encourage people to embrace what he described as the future of digital content.
“Tap into the future.”
‘Forget the past and embrace the future’
During the interview, Tonka suggested that social media has changed how people interact with cameras and public spaces.
According to him, many fears surrounding public filming are outdated and do not reflect today’s digital world.
“Tap into the future, forget the past.”
He argued that most livestreamers and content creators are not intentionally targeting members of the public when recording videos.
Instead, he said they are simply creating content for online audiences.
Tonka also noted that many of those who complain about being filmed are unlikely to become the focus of the content itself.
“Hawa watu wana complain about being filmed… streamers hawako coming for them.”
His remarks appeared to encourage people to see public filming as a normal part of an increasingly connected society.
Social media users divided.
Tonka’s remarks quickly attracted mixed reactions, with some agreeing that public filming has become part of modern life, while others argued that people should still have the right to choose whether they appear in online content.
User @loskul_ suggested that confidence may play a role.
“Sometimes it’s just about self-esteem.”
Another follower, @vickie_nahreel, simply wrote:
“Tonka to the world.”
@ndisya001 appeared to embrace the message, commenting:
“Nisha tap into the future.”
Similarly, @theewambui said:
“So long as uko social media you can be filmed.”
Meanwhile, @nazario_tv echoed Tonka’s remarks.
“Mnaambiwa mtap into the dimension mnadhani ni jokes.”
Not everyone agreed.
User @mayan_wit_2_is challenged Tonka’s view, writing:
“This is such a shallow way of thinking… si kila mtu anapen
A growing debate in the creator economy
Tonka’s comments come as livestreaming and street content continue to gain popularity across platforms such as TikTok, Instagram, Facebook and YouTube.
Many creators now produce videos in public spaces, capturing interactions, events and daily life as part of their content.
At the same time, conversations about privacy and consent have become increasingly common.
While filming in public places is generally permitted in many jurisdictions, legal experts note that the use of someone’s image can be subject to privacy, data protection or commercial rules depending on the circumstances and local laws.
The discussion has therefore become one of balancing freedom of expression with respect for personal privacy.
