In a stark reminder of the volatility within the tech sector, more than 1,000 workers in Kenya have been abruptly dismissed by Sama, an outsourcing firm previously contracted by Meta. The decision follows Meta’s suspension of its partnership with Sama amid serious allegations concerning the viewing of sensitive content recorded by smart glasses. Activists have condemned this mass layoff as a glaring illustration of the precarious nature of jobs in the global south.
A Sudden Termination
On Thursday, Sama announced the layoffs, stating that they were a direct result of Meta’s decision to terminate their contract. This news rippled through Nairobi, where many of these workers, primarily engaged in content moderation and AI training, were left stunned. They were given a mere six days’ notice before losing their livelihoods, a move described by the Oversight Lab—a group advocating for fair technology practices in Africa—as “devastating.”
Last month, reports surfaced revealing that some Kenyan workers had been asked to review distressing footage recorded by Meta’s AI-powered Ray-Ban smart glasses. This included private moments, such as individuals using the toilet or engaging in intimate acts. Following these revelations, Meta put a halt to its collaboration with Sama, citing concerns over compliance with standards and user privacy.
Aftermath of the Layoffs
The impact of these layoffs extends far beyond the immediate loss of employment. Many of the dismissed workers had previously been involved in a civil lawsuit alleging severe psychological distress—including PTSD, depression, and anxiety—stemming from their exposure to graphic online content. In 2024, a group of 140 workers sought justice after enduring traumatic experiences tied to their roles.
In its defence, Meta said, “Photos and videos are private to users. Humans review AI content to improve product performance, for which we get clear user consent.” They added that their decision to end the partnership with Sama was influenced by the latter’s failure to meet Meta’s standards.
Sama, in response, stated that they recognised the ramifications of the layoffs, promising to support affected employees with dignity. The firm claimed to be a responsible corporate entity, asserting that its workers were compensated with living wages and had access to comprehensive wellness resources, including medical benefits and counselling.
Critical Voices from the Ground
The Oversight Lab has sharply criticised the layoffs, labelling them as shocking and indicative of a broader issue within the tech industry. The organisation’s statement highlighted the urgent need to rethink strategies that currently jeopardise the livelihoods of youth in Kenya, warning that the existing framework does not foster equitable participation in the burgeoning AI landscape.
Kauna Malgwi, a former Sama employee, echoed these sentiments. “This issue is not confined to one company or contract,” she remarked. “It reflects how the global AI industry operates. The power is concentrated in the hands of large tech companies, while the risks disproportionately affect outsourced workers, particularly in the global south, who often lack adequate protection.”
A Broader Context of Exploitation
This incident occurs against the backdrop of a recent jury verdict in Los Angeles, which found that both Meta’s Instagram and Google’s YouTube had intentionally designed their platforms to be addictive, leading to harmful outcomes for young users. Such findings underscore a pervasive trend where the interests of major tech firms overshadow the welfare of vulnerable workers and consumers.
Why it Matters
The dismissal of over 1,000 workers in Kenya is not just a corporate restructuring; it shines a harsh light on the fragility of employment in the tech sector, especially in developing nations. As the industry continues to evolve, the experiences of those on the front lines—often subjected to severe conditions—must not be overlooked. This situation compels us to question the ethical responsibilities of tech giants, urging a reevaluation of how they engage with the global workforce and the fundamental rights of those who contribute to their success.
