Through a new collaboration with the government of Kenya, TikTok solidified its investment in Kenya’s digital creative economy. The partnership aims to provide 3,000 creators with the necessary skills and opportunities for the whole of Sub-Saharan Africa.
On the occasion of TikTok’s annual #LevelUpAfrica Creator Education Day, the announcement was made to the public. The event was held in Nairobi and saw the attendance of over 150 creators, industry leaders, and government representatives. So eight months of the programme will present not only training and mentorship but also the necessary tools for creators to thrive on and off the platform.
“The #LevelUpAfrica program is more than just a skills development initiative; it is about creating a supportive community, building partnerships, and allowing creators the opportunity to advance their careers”, said Boniswa Sidwaba, TikTok’s Head of Content Operations, Sub-Saharan Africa.
Officials of Kenyan government expressed their support for the initiative. According to Amb. Philip Thigo, Special Envoy on Technology for the President, focusing on Kenya’s high-speed internet and smartphone penetration would be the best approach to creating great innovations driven by new creative talents.
Additionally, Stephen Isaboke, Principal Secretary for Broadcasting and Telecommunications claimed that TikTok’s infusion of capital “has an incredibly close synergy with our national agenda geared towards empowering creatives through the triple mantra of innovation, skills development, and technology.”
Dennis Itumbi, Head of Presidential Special Projects and Creative Economy lauded the partnership to be the “Silicon Savannah’s” shift from “where the youth were waiting to be employed, to where they are creating jobs, building brands, and driving the economy.”
During the event, Emmy award-winning writer Damaris Irungu Ochieng’ gave a storytelling masterclass, emphasizing the importance of Africa telling its stories to the rest of the world. Besides, creators like BoxtoBoxregista, Grace Odawa, Azeezah, and Roy Kanyi talked about how to make money using digital platforms, working with brands, and creating lasting digital careers.
The #LevelUpAfrica programme launched by TikTok in 2018 has been Africa-based and has been offering the necessary training, visibility, and economic opportunities for the creators in the continent.
The decision to go local goes a long way in confirming the platform’s place in the creative economy of Kenya and in accompanying the talent of the East African country to the global stage.