TikTok has announced a major commitment to support Africa’s creative economy through its flagship #LevelUpAfrica programme, unveiled during the annual Creator Education Day hosted in partnership with the Government of Kenya.
The initiative will upskill, train, and support 3,000 creators across Sub-Saharan Africa over the next eight months, providing them with skills and opportunities to grow both on and off the platform.
“This is not just about skills development, it is about fostering community, inspiring collaboration, and opening doors for creators to take their careers to the next level,” said Boniswa Sidwaba, Head of Content Operations, Sub-Saharan Africa at TikTok.
Kenyan government officials welcomed the partnership, highlighting its potential to boost youth employment and digital innovation. “Kenya boasts some of the fastest internet speeds in the world, and with three out of five young people owning smartphones, there is a significant opportunity for creators to harness platforms like TikTok,” said Amb. Philip Thigo, Special Envoy on Technology for the President of Kenya.
Stephen Isaboke, Principal Secretary in the State Department of Broadcasting and Telecommunications, added that the programme aligns with Kenya’s agenda to empower creatives through technology and innovation.
The event, which brought together over 150 participants, featured masterclasses, networking opportunities, and insights from top creators. Emmy award-winning writer Damaris Irungu Ochieng’ led a session on storytelling, emphasising the power of narrative as Africa’s strongest export.
Since its launch in 2021, #LevelUpAfrica has amplified African voices globally, provided economic opportunities, and equipped creators with tools to build sustainable careers. Kenyan tech creator Roy Kanyi, an alumnus of the first cohort, noted that the programme transformed his approach to content creation, turning casual videos into a brand that now attracts real partnerships.
The 2025 Creator Education Day further underlined TikTok’s deepening investment in Kenya’s creative economy, reinforcing the country’s growing reputation as Africa’s “Silicon Savannah.”
