Meta, the parent company of Facebook, and its local agents are embroiled in a class action lawsuit in Kenya demanding Sh25.9 billion in compensation for alleged labor abuses and mental health damages.
The lawsuit, filed by 185 former Facebook content moderators, accuses Meta and its Kenyan contractor, Samasource Kenya EPZ Ltd, of exposing workers to graphic and distressing content, including terrorism, child abuse, and murders, without adequate psychological support.
Documents submitted to the Employment and Labour Relations Court outline claims of lasting harm. Psychiatrist Dr. Ian Kanyanya, who examined 140 petitioners, noted many displayed symptoms of PTSD and MDD even a year after leaving their roles.
In his statement, Dr. Kanyanya remarked, “Many of them were still in a precarious emotional state despite having stopped Facebook content moderation about a whole year before the examination took place.”
The petitioners allege working 8–10 hours daily under harrowing conditions, with many recruited from marginalized areas. They claim Sh20 million each for forced labor, Sh50 million each for mental distress, and Sh10 million each for discrimination.
Migrant workers involved in the case also accuse Meta of human trafficking, citing improper documentation and unsuitable housing arrangements.
Meta previously contested the jurisdiction of Kenyan courts, arguing it operates outside the country. However, the Court of Appeal ruled against Meta, allowing the case to proceed.
The petitioners argue their work was critical to shielding the public from harmful content but claim they were exploited and unlawfully dismissed, defying a court order.
Justice Nduma Nderi is set to hear the case on February 26, 2025, marking a pivotal moment in global labor and digital ethics.
