Meta has ended its content moderation partnership with Sama, a firm it had contracted since 2019 to review harmful content across sub-Saharan Africa.
The decision follows mounting criticism directed at both companies over alleged labor conditions. Nearly 200 moderators dismissed in 2023 filed a lawsuit accusing Sama of unfair termination, while also raising concerns about working conditions in Kenya. Workers claimed they faced inhumane treatment, including irregular pay and, in some cases, forced labor.
Additional complaints were previously filed by former employees, including a case brought in 2022 by a South African worker. Many moderators have reported severe psychological distress due to prolonged exposure to violent and disturbing content, calling for compensation and improved protections.
Sama has rejected the allegations, stating that it provides employees with a living wage, full benefits, and access to professional counselling services.
Meta, for its part, said the contract termination was due to Sama not meeting its operational standards. The company also indicated a strategic shift toward increased reliance on Artificial Intelligence and machine learning technologies for content moderation.
The case underscores growing scrutiny of the human cost behind digital content moderation, as tech companies balance safety responsibilities with labor practices and automation.
Source: AfricaNews
