Kenyan tech workers call out US Big Tech for ‘modern-day slavery’

OpenAI on website on smartphone stock photo (3)
Credit: Edgar Cervantes / Android Authority
  • Nearly 100 Kenyan tech workers have sent an open letter to President Biden, demanding an end to exploitation by US companies like Meta and OpenAI.
  • The workers describe harsh conditions, low pay, and mental health issues, accusing the companies of labor practices amounting to “modern-day slavery.”
  • They urge President Biden to ensure trade agreements include strong labor protections and accountability measures for US firms operating abroad.

In a significant move, 97 African tech workers involved in AI training and content moderation for major US corporations like Meta and OpenAI have addressed an open letter to President Biden. The letter, published on 22 May, accuses these companies of “systemic abuse and exploitation” of African workers and calls for urgent intervention.

The letter, first reported by Wired, was also cc’d to US Trade Representative Ambassador Katherine Tai. It coincides with Kenyan President William Ruto’s visit to the US to mark the 60th anniversary of US-Kenyan diplomatic relations and discuss trade, investment, and technological innovation.



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