African mothers used to have an aversion to seeing us spend too long on our phones, so much that the phone got blamed for anything we did wrong. But this notion may begin to change as they realise the digital space is a multi-billion-dollar market for young people. If you enjoy spending time on TikTok, it's time to start earning from it. At least, when your parents complain, you can tell them that "pressing phone" pays the bills now.
Kenya’s youthful population has been turning to TikTok for entertainment, news, education and business promotion. Unsurprisingly, the country is home to many social media influencers and emerging TikTok celebrities. The platform offers a chance to turn creativity into cash through Live Gifts, brand deals, and affiliate marketing. However, monetising TikTok in Kenya can be tricky without access to international bank accounts, as it often requires UK, US, or EU accounts for payouts.
This guide shares ways to earn on TikTok in Kenya and explains how Grey streamlines your payouts.
Also read: Grey vs. local banks: The best currency exchange method in Kenya
Earning from TikTok isn't one-size-fits-all. Here are some ways to start making money from TikTok:
Success on TikTok starts with consistently creating content for a loyal audience. You need at least 1,000 followers to go live and 10,000 followers with 100,000 views in the last 30 days for brand deals or affiliate marketing. Focus on a niche like comedy, fashion, or cooking, and post videos consistently using trending hashtags and sounds. Engaging your viewers by replying to comments and joining challenges helps to grow loyalty and improve your exposure. The best posting times are 7–9 PM EAT when Kenyans are active. You can grow your following fast to start earning with consistency and creativity.
TikTok lets you start going live once you hit 1,000 followers and you are over 18 years old. Viewers can send virtual gifts during your live. Each gift has its worth (e.g., “Rose” is one coin or “Sam the Whale” is 30,000 coins) that can be converted to diamonds. Each diamond is worth $0.005. So 15,000 diamonds from a “Sam the Whale” is worth $75. However, TikTok takes a 50% cut. You can promote your live streams to increase participation and maximise gifts.
To withdraw your earnings, you require a PayPal account. However, you can link a USD account with Grey to receive these funds. This way, you don’t have to worry about high charges and unfriendly conversion rates.
Also read: How to get an instant USD debit card in Kenya
Local and international brands partner with Kenyan creators who have 10,000+ followers for sponsored content. Contact local brands via DMs or create a media kit showcasing your niche (e.g., beauty, tech). Micro-influencers with 1,000–10,000 followers can start with smaller deals. Brands often pay in USD or GBP, requiring international accounts. Grey provides USD/GBP accounts, letting you receive these payments directly and convert to KES for M-Pesa or Equity Bank withdrawals.
Affiliate marketing lets you earn commissions by promoting products via links in your bio, as TikTok doesn’t support in-video links. Join programs like Jumia’s, earning 10% per sale (e.g., KES 1,000 for a KES 10,000 phone sale). Create engaging videos showcasing products like fashion or gadgets, directing viewers to your bio link. Payments often come in USD via PayPal or wire transfers. With Grey, you can receive affiliate earnings in a USD account, convert to KES at competitive rates, and withdraw to M-Pesa or Absa Bank.
Use TikTok to market your own merchandise or services, like custom T-shirts, artwork, or consulting. Add the link to your online store in your bio. Promote products with tutorials or giveaways to boost engagement. International buyers may pay in USD, requiring a global account for seamless transactions. Grey’s USD account lets you accept these payments.
Earning on TikTok in Kenya is exciting, but accessing your money can be a hassle without a UK bank account. Grey solves this by offering USD and GBP accounts for Kenyan creators. Here’s how to set it up.
Also read: 13 essential tools and resources for digital nomads in Kenya
Kenyan TikTok creators can earn big by going live, securing brand deals, promoting affiliate products, and selling their own goods. While the Creator Fund isn’t available, alternative methods offer real income potential.
With Grey, you don’t need a UK bank account to cash out. Its accounts and low-fee withdrawals to M-Pesa or local banks make it a game-changer. Start creating, monetise your passion, and use Grey to turn your TikTok hustle into a thriving income stream.
Get started with Grey today to start earning on TikTok with ease.
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