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.