We're loading the full news article for you. This includes the article content, images, author information, and related articles.
Githunguri MP Gathoni Wamuchomba argues that the lawless nature of TikTok in Kenya is fueling scams and destroying legitimate digital jobs, as Parliament moves to strictly regulate the social media giant.

The digital gold rush has turned into a minefield. Githunguri MP Gathoni Wamuchomba has blown the whistle on the chaotic state of Kenya’s social media landscape, revealing a paradox that has left policymakers scratching their heads: the lack of regulation on platforms like TikTok is not creating jobs—it is destroying them.
As the National Assembly adopts a landmark report to tighten the leash on social media giants, Wamuchomba offered a sobering analysis of the "creator economy." Far from being a utopia of youth employment, she argues that the unregulated space has become a hunting ground for scammers, unscrupulous betting syndicates, and data miners who are siphoning millions from unsuspecting Kenyans, leaving genuine creators and businesses in the dust.
"We are losing jobs because we are losing trust," Wamuchomba asserted during the parliamentary debate. Her argument pivots on the idea that a lawless digital marketplace drives away legitimate advertisers and investors who fear brand damage. When a platform is overrun by fraud and "wash-wash" schemes, the honest influencer selling shoes or comedy sketches gets drowned out by the noise of criminality.
The MP's stance is a direct counter to the narrative that any regulation is an attack on free speech. Instead, she frames it as consumer protection and economic safeguard. The report, triggered by a petition from businessman Bob Ndolo, initially sought a ban but has settled on strict regulation—a "guardrail" approach rather than a "kill switch."
Speaker Moses Wetang'ula sought to calm nerves, clarifying that the House is not banning TikTok but "cleaning it up." However, Wamuchomba’s intervention adds a crucial economic dimension to the debate.
Kenya is asserting its digital sovereignty. The message to Silicon Valley and Beijing is loud and clear: The days of operating in a legal vacuum are over. If TikTok wants to do business in the 254, it must play by Kenyan rules, or risk being scrolled past permanently.
Keep the conversation in one place—threads here stay linked to the story and in the forums.
Sign in to start a discussion
Start a conversation about this story and keep it linked here.
Other hot threads
E-sports and Gaming Community in Kenya
Active 9 months ago
The Role of Technology in Modern Agriculture (AgriTech)
Active 9 months ago
Popular Recreational Activities Across Counties
Active 9 months ago
Investing in Youth Sports Development Programs
Active 9 months ago
Key figures and persons of interest featured in this article