Meta, the parent company of Facebook, has launched two new monetization features for eligible content creators in Kenya. The move, announced on August 6, 2024, introduces In-Stream Ads on Facebook and Facebook Ads on Reels, enabling Kenyan creators to generate income from their original video content.
Moon Baz, Global Partnerships Lead for Africa, Middle East, and Turkey at Meta, stated, “Everyday, we’re inspired by the incredible African creators who use Facebook to tell their stories, connect with others and bring people together. This expansion will empower eligible creators in the vibrant creative industry in Kenya to earn money, whilst setting the bar high for creativity across the world.”
The new features include various ad formats for In-Stream Ads, such as pre-roll, mid-roll, image, and post-roll ads. These can appear before, during, or after on-demand videos, including pre-recorded content and recordings of previous live streams. Ads on Facebook Reels will be integrated into original Reels, with creators earning based on their content’s performance.
To access these monetization tools, creators must comply with Facebook’s Partner Monetisation Policies and Content Monetisation Policies. They must also be at least 18 years old. For In-Stream Ads, additional eligibility requirements include having a minimum of 5,000 followers.
The rollout supports over 30 languages globally, including Swahili, broadening the reach for Kenyan creators.
Kenyan President William Ruto welcomed the initiative, saying, “We urge our creatives to take advantage of this opportunity to not only enhance their incomes but also create job opportunities for others. We will continue to seek more opportunities for our youth to explore their talents.”
This expansion aligns with Meta’s broader strategy to enhance its suite of tools for content creators across its platforms. As social media consumption patterns evolve, particularly with the rising popularity of short-form video content, Meta’s move aims to position its platforms as competitive options for content creators in the region.
The launch of these monetization features in Kenya may signal Meta’s growing focus on the African market, recognizing the continent’s potential for digital content creation and consumption. As the digital economy in Africa continues to expand, such initiatives could play a crucial role in fostering local talent and driving economic opportunities in the creative sector.
