tech
Kenyan firm sacks more than 1,000 workers after losing Meta contract
Meta paused work with Sama last month after allegations about staff viewing private scenes filmed by smart glasses
TL;DR
- Over 1,000 low-paid workers in Kenya have been sacked by Sama, a Meta contractor.
- The layoffs occurred after Meta terminated its contract with Sama.
- Workers were given six days' notice, with many involved in AI training.
- Previous allegations include workers viewing disturbing content and developing PTSD, depression, and anxiety.
- Meta paused work with Sama due to allegations of staff viewing private scenes filmed by smart glasses and Sama not meeting their standards.
- Sama stated they are supporting affected employees and are a responsible corporate citizen with living wages and full benefits.
- Activists called the layoffs devastating and shocking, pointing to the power imbalance between large tech companies and outsourced workers.