13 Ways to Make  Money on TikTok in Kenya [Insane 2024 Ideas]

TikTok is blowing up! No doubt about that. In fact, did you know that Kenya leads in global TikTok usage? ¹ It’s insane. 

Of course with this new trend, many people are now wondering how to make money on TikTok in Kenya. 

This is not surprising considering that social media platforms like TikTok have emerged as dynamic arenas where creativity and entrepreneurship collide. The platform has captivated the attention of millions worldwide, offering a unique space for individuals to express themselves and engage with a vast audience. 

But did you know that TikTok is not just a source of entertainment but also a potential avenue to earn money? If you’re in Kenya and want to unlock the opportunities that TikTok has to offer, you’ve come to the right place.

In this guide, we explore the various ways you can monetize TikTok in Kenya, right from the comfort of your home. So, whether you’re an aspiring content creator, a skilled artist, or a business owner looking to tap into the massive TikTok user base, this guide will equip you with the knowledge and strategies you need to make money on TikTok in Kenya.

Let’s start with a very basic question. 

Can You Make Money on TikTok in Kenya?

Yes, it is possible to make money on TikTok in Kenya. TikTok offers several avenues for users to monetize their content and earn income through methods such as the Creator Fund, brand partnerships, live streaming, affiliate marketing, merchandise sales, and influencer marketing platforms.

Some of these methods are a result of TikTok’s own initiative while others will depend on your creativity. 

Generally, to make money, you must focus on building a strong presence on the platform and engaging with your audience. You need to create content consistently and focus on what your followers are looking for. 

What Do You Need to Make Money on TikTok in Kenya?

Before you can start earning from TikTok, there are a few prerequisites you need to fulfill. 

Here are some key requirements and strategies to consider:

• TikTok account: Create a TikTok account and optimize your profile. Choose a catchy username, write an appealing bio, and select a profile picture that represents your brand or persona.
• High-quality content: Creating engaging and unique content is crucial on TikTok. Start by choosing a niche and producing videos that resonate with your target audience. Also, consider using popular trends, challenges, and creative concepts to attract viewers.
• Consistent posting: Regularly upload new content to keep your audience engaged. Posting at least once a day or a few times a week can help maintain visibility and grow your follower base.
• Growing your followers: Focus on increasing your followers organically. Collaborate with other TikTokers, engage with your audience through comments and direct messages, and use relevant hashtags to increase discoverability.
• Build your brand: Establishing a recognizable and authentic brand is key to standing out on TikTok. Therefore, consider your content style, themes, and overall image. Next, develop a unique persona or voice that resonates with your target audience. Finally, consistency in your content, aesthetics, and messaging will help viewers recognize and connect with your brand.

How to Make Money on TikTok in Kenya 

• Become an Influencer Marketer
• Get Sponsors
• Tap Into the TikTok Creator Fund
• Collect Virtual Gifts
• Collect “Tips” from Your Audience
• Sell Products/Services
• Create In-Feed Ads with the TikTok Ads Manager
• Crowdfund Projects by Collecting Donations from Fans
• Use Patreon to Offer Fan Subscriptions
• Become a TikTok Consultant
• Earn Money Through Affiliate Programs
• Publish Sponsored Posts
• Promote other people’s songs

1. Become an Influencer Marketer

One popular way to make money on TikTok in Kenya is by becoming an influencer marketer. As an influencer, you can build a strong following by creating engaging and entertaining content that resonates with your audience. Once you have a substantial following, you can collaborate with brands and promote their products or services to your followers.

To become a successful influencer marketer, it’s crucial to find your niche and create content that aligns with your interests and expertise. Whether you’re passionate about fashion, beauty, fitness, or comedy, focus on producing high-quality content that stands out in the TikTok community. Consistency is key, so aim to post regularly and interact with your followers to build a loyal fan base.

As your follower count grows, brands will start to notice your influence and reach out for partnership opportunities. These collaborations can include sponsored content, where you feature or review a product, or affiliate marketing, where you earn a commission for driving sales through your unique referral links. By leveraging your influence and connecting with relevant brands, you can monetize your TikTok presence and earn money through brand partnerships.

2. Get Sponsors

Another way to monetize your TikTok account in Kenya is by securing sponsorships from companies or brands. Sponsors are typically interested in partnering with TikTok creators who have a large and engaged following. If you’ve built a significant following and have a track record of creating compelling content, you can reach out to companies or agencies that might be interested in sponsoring your videos.

To attract sponsors, you should showcase your unique personality, style, and creative abilities through your TikTok content. Engage with your audience and demonstrate the value you bring to your followers. This can include your ability to promote products effectively, tell compelling stories, or engage viewers with humor and authenticity.

When approaching potential sponsors, you must have a well-crafted pitch that highlights your audience demographics, engagement rates, and any previous successful partnerships. This information helps sponsors gauge the potential return on investment they can expect from collaborating with you. Be prepared to negotiate terms such as compensation, content requirements, and campaign duration to ensure a mutually beneficial partnership.

3. Tap Into the TikTok Creator Fund

The TikTok Creator Fund ² is an initiative by TikTok that allows eligible creators to earn money based on the engagement and performance of their content. This is not yet available in Kenya but it’s something you should keep an eye out for. You can see the list of countries that are eligible here. 

To participate in the TikTok Creator Fund, you need at least 10,000 followers and at least 100,000 views in the last 30 days. Of course, you should also be older than 18 years. 

 If you meet these requirements, you can apply for the Creator Fund program through TikTok and possibly start making some money. 

Once accepted into the program, you can start earning money based on factors like the number of views, likes, and shares your videos receive. TikTok calculates payments based on a formula that takes into account various engagement metrics. While the exact payment structure may vary, the Creator Fund provides a way for TikTok creators to monetize their content directly through the platform.

4. Collect Virtual Gifts

This is one of the most popular ways to make money on TikTok in Kenya. If you have joined any live stream on TikTok, you have probably heard hosts asking their viewers to send gifts. Maybe you have even sent some gifts yourself. 

So, how do you make money from these gifts?

On TikTok, users have the option to purchase virtual gifts that they can then send to their favorite creators. The creators can then convert these gifts into real money. As a TikTok content creator in Kenya, you can earn money by encouraging your followers to purchase and send virtual gifts during your live streams or through your profile.

To maximize your earnings from virtual gifts, engage with your audience during live streams and create a lively and interactive environment. Also, encourage viewers to send virtual gifts by offering shoutouts, special acknowledgments, or exclusive content in return. The more engaging and entertaining your live streams are, the more likely your followers will be to support you with virtual gifts.

5. Collect “Tips” from Your Audience

In addition to virtual gifts, TikTok creators in Kenya can also receive direct monetary support from their followers through tips. TikTok offers a feature that allows users to tip their favorite creators directly within the app. This provides an additional avenue for monetization.

To encourage tips from your audience, create compelling content that your followers will enjoy. For instance, you can showcase your unique talents, skills, or knowledge in your videos. You should also engage with your audience through comments, direct messages, and live streams. 

By building strong relationships with your followers and consistently delivering high-quality content, you can increase the likelihood of receiving tips from your loyal fan base.

6. Sell Products/Services

If you have your own products or offer services, you can effectively use TikTok to promote and sell them. Whether you’re an artist, craftsman, designer, or provide any other type of service, you can leverage TikTok’s reach and audience to showcase your offerings and drive sales.

You have probably already seen many TikTokers in Kenya selling products in their videos or through live streams. These can be anything from electronics and paintings to fashion items. If you have a good following, you can sell almost anything. 

To start selling, you need to create engaging videos that demonstrate the value of your products or services. Show how they can enhance people’s lives or solve specific problems. Use TikTok’s features like the “link in bio” option to direct your audience to your online store, website, or other platforms where they can make a purchase or inquire about your services.

You can also collaborate with other creators or influencers to promote your products or services through sponsored content. By leveraging their audience and reach, you can increase your brand visibility and potentially attract new customers.

Remember to comply with TikTok’s guidelines and policies ⁴when promoting products or services, and ensure transparency and authenticity to maintain the trust of your audience. Building a strong brand and delivering quality products or services will help you generate sales and revenue on TikTok in Kenya.

7. Create In-Feed Ads with the TikTok Ads Manager

If you have a business or want to promote products/services as an advertiser, you can utilize TikTok’s advertising platform, known as TikTok Ads Manager. This feature allows you to create in-feed ads that appear in users’ TikTok feeds, reaching a wider audience beyond your existing followers.

To get started, set up an account on TikTok Ads Manager and define your target audience based on demographics, interests, and behaviors. Create engaging ad content that aligns with TikTok’s creative trends and formats. You can include a call-to-action to drive users to visit your website, make a purchase, or engage with your brand in other ways.

By leveraging TikTok’s extensive user base and targeting capabilities, you can effectively reach potential customers in Kenya and drive traffic, conversions, and sales for your business.

8. Crowdfund Projects by Collecting Donations from Fans

If you have a creative project, social cause, or business idea that requires funding, you can use TikTok as a platform to crowdfund and collect donations from your fans. TikTok allows users to add links to external platforms, such as crowdfunding websites, in their profile bio or video descriptions.

To get started, create compelling videos that explain your project or cause, highlighting its value and impact. You will need to communicate your funding goals and how the contributions will be used. It’s also important that you engage with your followers, respond to their comments, and show appreciation for their support.

Next, promote your crowdfunding campaign consistently through your TikTok content, and leverage the power of hashtags and challenges to reach a wider audience. Ensure you encourage your followers to share your videos and spread the word about your crowdfunding initiative.

9. Use Patreon to Offer Fan Subscriptions

Patreon is a platform that allows creators like you to offer exclusive content and perks to their most dedicated fans in exchange for monthly subscriptions. As a TikTok creator in Kenya, you can leverage Patreon to monetize your content by providing additional value to your supporters.

To do this, you need to create a Patreon account and set up different subscription tiers that offer varying levels of exclusive content, such as behind-the-scenes footage, tutorials, personalized shoutouts, or early access to your videos. Next, promote your Patreon account on TikTok by creating engaging videos that highlight the benefits of becoming a patron.

To encourage sign-ups, ensure that the content you provide through Patreon is unique, valuable, and aligned with your followers’ interests. It also helps to engage with your patrons regularly by responding to their messages, providing exclusive updates, and showing appreciation for their support.

Hopefully, by offering fan subscriptions through Patreon, you can cultivate a dedicated community of supporters who are willing to pay for exclusive access to your content and provide you with a steady stream of income.

10. Become a TikTok Consultant

This might not be very popular right now but it is actually one of the best ways to make money on TikTok in Kenya if you know how to go about it.

Here is how it works;

If you have gained expertise and knowledge in TikTok marketing and content creation, you can monetize your skills by offering consulting services to businesses or individuals who also want to grow on TikTok. Trust me, many brands and aspiring TikTok creators are looking for effective strategies for creating engaging content or understanding the platform’s algorithms.

You can leverage on this by positioning yourself as a TikTok consultant by showcasing your expertise through your own TikTok account or by creating educational content on other platforms. Highlight your successes and provide case studies to demonstrate your ability to drive results.

To get started, you can offer services such as content strategy development, audience analysis, campaign planning, or one-on-one coaching sessions. Make sure to customize your consulting packages based on the specific needs of your clients. You can then promote your services through your TikTok bio, social media profiles, and relevant online communities.

11. Earn Money Through Affiliate Programs

Affiliate marketing is a popular way to earn money online, and TikTok provides opportunities for creators in Kenya to participate in affiliate programs. Start by joining affiliate networks or partnering with brands that offer products or services relevant to your niche or audience.

Next, create content that showcases the affiliate products in an authentic and engaging manner. You can provide reviews, tutorials, or demonstrations that highlight the benefits and features of the products. Don’t forget to include your affiliate links in the video description or use the TikTok “link in bio” feature to direct your followers to purchase the products.

You earn a commission when your followers make purchases using your affiliate links.

12. Publish Sponsored Posts

As your TikTok following grows, you may attract brands and companies interested in partnering with you for sponsored posts. Sponsored posts involve creating content that promotes a brand or its products/services in exchange for compensation. Unlike affiliate marketing, you are paid for simply promoting the brand, instead of on a commission basis.

However, the same rules apply. For instance, when collaborating with brands, you should maintain authenticity and align with products or services that resonate with your audience. This means choosing partnerships that make sense for your content and values. For instance, if your content is mostly about fashion, you should only partner with fashion brands.

When negotiating sponsored posts, consider factors such as the type of content, deliverables, compensation, and campaign duration. Ensure that the partnership terms are mutually beneficial and adhere to TikTok’s guidelines for branded content. ⁵

By publishing sponsored posts, you can monetize your TikTok presence while introducing your audience to relevant brands or products that you genuinely believe in.

13. Promote Other People’s Songs

TikTok has helped many Kenyan artists to quickly get their music discovered by fans. Now, some artists are paying TikTok influencers to help them push their music.

So, if you have a knack for discovering new music and have a following that trusts your taste, you can monetize your TikTok account in Kenya by promoting other people’s songs. As an influencer, you can feature and create content around songs from emerging artists or promote tracks from established musicians.

Reach out to musicians, record labels, or music promotion agencies to explore potential collaborations. You can offer to create TikTok videos that feature their songs, choreograph dances, or use their music as a background for your content. In return, negotiate compensation or other forms of collaboration, such as cross-promotion.

By showcasing songs to your audience, you can help artists gain exposure and potentially earn a fee for your promotional efforts. This can be an exciting way to support the music industry while monetizing your TikTok presence.

How to Choose the Best Way to Make Money on TikTok

Choosing the best way to make money on TikTok depends on several factors, including your interests, skills, audience, and goals. Here are some steps to help you determine the most suitable monetization method for your TikTok account:

• Identify Your Interests and Expertise: Consider your passions, hobbies, and areas of expertise. Determine what type of content you enjoy creating and what topics resonate with your audience. Choosing a monetization method that aligns with your interests will help you maintain motivation and authenticity.
• Understand Your Audience: Analyze your TikTok analytics to gain insights into your audience demographics, interests, and engagement patterns. Understanding your audience’s preferences will help you choose a monetization method that caters to their needs and interests.
• Evaluate Your Skills and Resources: Assess your strengths and skills. Are you a talented content creator, a skilled marketer, or knowledgeable about a particular industry? Identifying your skills and resources will guide you toward monetization methods that leverage your strengths.
• Research and Explore Options: Familiarize yourself with the various ways to make money on TikTok, as discussed in the previous responses. Research each method, and understand the requirements, potential earnings, and feasibility for your specific circumstances. Consider the pros and cons of each option.
• Consider Long-Term Sustainability: Assess the long-term viability and sustainability of the monetization method. Some methods may offer quick earnings but lack long-term potential. Evaluate the scalability, market demand, and your ability to sustain and grow your income over time.
• Experiment and Test: It’s often beneficial to experiment with different monetization methods to find what works best for you. Start by incorporating one method at a time and analyze the results. Monitor engagement, earnings, and feedback from your audience to gauge the effectiveness of each approach.
• Iterate and Adapt: As you gain experience and insights, be open to adapting your approach. Pivot if necessary and refine your strategy based on what resonates best with your audience and generates the most significant returns.
• Seek Guidance and Learn from Others: Connect with fellow TikTok creators, join online communities, and learn from those who have successfully monetized their TikTok presence. Engage in discussions, attend webinars or workshops, and stay up to date with industry trends to enhance your knowledge and stay ahead.

How to Make Money on TikTok in Kenya – FAQs

The Bottom Line

It’s no doubt that TikTok offers numerous opportunities for you to monetize your creative talents, skills, and online presence. Whether you aspire to become an influencer marketer, leverage sponsorships, tap into the TikTok Creator Fund, or explore other avenues, there are various paths to earn money on TikTok in Kenya.

To make an informed decision about the best way to monetize your TikTok account, consider your interests, audience, skills, and long-term sustainability. By aligning your monetization method with your passions and expertise, understanding your audience’s preferences, and evaluating the potential for growth and scalability, you can increase your chances of success.

Don’t forget to stay authentic and maintain a genuine connection with your followers. Building trust and delivering value through high-quality content will enable you to cultivate a loyal and engaged fan base, which in turn enhances your monetization opportunities.

1. Business Insider Africa, Kenya tops global TikTok usage charts, shaping news trends
2. TikTok, Creator Fund
3. Time, TikTok Is Shutting Down Its $2 Billion Creator Fund
4. TikTok, Merchant Terms of Service for TikTok Shop
5. TikTok, Branded Content Policy