Ethiopian authorities have arrested nine TikTok creators this week for allegedly vi%lating the country’s cultural norms. Six of the individuals were targeted for wearing what police described as “indecent attire” at the Ethiopia Creative Awards held two weeks ago, while the remaining three were detained for social media content deemed inappropriate.
Among those arrested for their clothing was Adonay Berhane, 25, a lifestyle and motivational creator with nearly four million followers, who had been named “TikToker of the Year” and was pictured wearing an open-necked shirt at the awards. Another influencer, Wongelawit Gebre Endrias (Evan), appeared braless under an oversized blazer, and Yohannes Mekonnen (Jahnny), a dancer and content reviewer, was detained for wearing a man-bag. None of the six have commented publicly on their arrests.
Police also confirmed the detention of Bereket Tsegaye, Mekdim Dereje, and Girum Gezahegn for social media content considered contrary to “good behavior and ethics,” including two creators allegedly involved in an “inappropriate act” during a livestream. Adonay’s mother, Abeba Gebru, expressed shock at her son’s arrest, describing him as a role model for Ethiopian youth. Having spent part of his youth in Canada, Adonay often encourages young Ethiopians to live and work in their homeland rather than emigrate.
Authorities cited concerns that online trends are undermining public morality and warned of further action against content seen as contrary to Ethiopia’s cultural values. With over eight million social media users nationwide, the arrests highlight the growing tension between the country’s expanding digital culture and long-standing societal expectations.
