African countries are taking bold steps to hold global tech giants like Meta accountable for data privacy violations, which could have a profound impact on the continent’s digital sovereignty. The repercussions of these lawsuits could shape the future of data protection laws in Africa.
Meta Lawsuits and Africa’s Data Privacy Landscape
African countries are taking bold steps to hold global tech giants like Meta, the parent company of Facebook, Instagram, and WhatsApp, accountable for data privacy violations. The repercussions of these lawsuits could have a profound impact on the continent’s digital sovereignty, shaping the future of data protection laws in Africa.
Meta builds technologies that help people connect, find communities and grow businesses.
The company's primary products include Facebook, 'the company's flagship product' , Instagram, Threads and WhatsApp, in addition to other products and services.
Founded in 2004 by Mark Zuckerberg, the company has evolved from a college project to a global technology leader.
The Rise of Digital Accountability
In recent months, Nigerian authorities have imposed significant fines on Meta, for regulatory breaches. The company has vowed to fight these fines, but the decision by the Federal Competition and Consumer Protection Commission (FCCPC) has sparked a wave of digital accountability across Africa.
Located in West Africa, Nigeria is the most populous country on the continent.
With over 200 million inhabitants, it boasts a diverse culture, comprising more than 250 ethnic groups.
The country's history dates back to the ancient Nok civilization, known for its sophisticated art and pottery.
Today, Nigeria is a federal republic with a presidential system of government.
Its economy is driven by agriculture, oil production, and manufacturing.
The FCCPC accused Meta of discriminatory practices, abuse of market dominance, sharing Nigerians’ personal data without authorization, and denying them the right to determine how their data is used. In response, ‘we disagree with the decision,’ citing the wide range of settings and tools available to users controlling how their information is used.
The Human Cost of Content Moderation
Meanwhile, lawyers are preparing for a lawsuit against Majorel, a company owned by tech contractor Teleperformance, which is paid by Meta for content moderation. Content moderators in Ghana have spoken out about the psychological toll of their work, citing depression, anxiety, insomnia, and substance abuse.
Despite these concerns, ‘we deny any wrongdoing,’ Teleperformance stated, saying that it employs its own mental health professionals registered with local supervisory authorities. The company’s response raises questions about the responsibility of tech firms in safeguarding the well-being of content moderators.
Regulatory Frameworks for Africa
Africa is a growing market for tech, but holding tech companies accountable is complicated by lax and weak enforcement of data protection laws. Experts argue that this is a shifting landscape, with countries like Nigeria, Kenya, and others taking steps to strengthen their data laws.
Akintunde Babatunde, executive director of the Centre for Journalism Innovation and Development (CJID), notes that ‘whatever happens to those lawsuits will set precedent for what would potentially be a playbook for a lot of other countries on the continent.’ He calls for regulatory frameworks for tech platforms in Africa, similar to basic amenities like roads or airports.
Akintunde Babatunde is a Nigerian politician and former member of the Ogun State House of Assembly.
He was elected to represent the Abeokuta North state constituency in 2007 and served two consecutive terms.
During his tenure, he sponsored several bills aimed at improving healthcare and education in his constituency.
After leaving office, Babatunde has remained active in politics, advocating for good governance and community development.
Boosting Regulatory Revenues
Some African countries are already working towards securing their value chains by strengthening data laws. Nigeria’s data protection agency has reported generating over $1.2 million in regulatory revenue within two years. Gbenga Sesan, executive director of Paradigm Initiative, notes that these decisions go beyond exerting digital sovereignty, aiming to boost regulatory revenues.
The Future of Data Privacy
While Africa is gradually taking matters into its own hands, there are still concerns about governments using digital regulation and privacy laws to suppress dissenting voices. Young Africans have used platforms owned by global tech companies to mobilize and hold their governments accountable. However, some African governments attack these platforms ‘because they are used by the opposition,’ using them as a pretext to restrict access.
As Africa continues to evolve its data protection landscape, it is essential to balance digital sovereignty with the need for accountability and regulation. The Meta lawsuits could mark a turning point in this journey, shaping the future of data privacy laws on the continent.
