TikTok teams up with Aleph, Wowzi to empower Kenyan creators

TikTok has announced strategic partnerships in Kenya with Aleph Holdings and Wowzi to strengthen its local presence and support the country's creative ecosystem.

Through the collaborations, TikTok's sales and support operations will be taken over by Aleph's Kenyan team, which will provide businesses with direct access to insights, hands-on assistance, and streamlined advertising processes.

Wowzi, a leading technology marketplace, on the other hand, will act as TikTok's creator management partner.

The company will hence empower Kenyan creators by offering mentorship, guidance, and enhanced opportunities to connect with brands and agencies.

"We are incredibly proud of our vibrant and rapidly growing community in Kenya," said Carl Jordan, Head of Sales, Global Business Solutions, TikTok - Sub Saharan Africa.

"Our partnerships with Aleph and Wowzi reflect our deep commitment to strengthening the local creative ecosystem and driving economic growth. These collaborations not only empower Kenyan advertisers with unmatched access to cutting-edge digital ad formats and tailored local support, but also open new doors for the immensely talented local creators to thrive and expand their presence on the platform."

Stephen Newton, Regional Managing Director - Sub-Saharan Africa, Aleph Holdings, highlighted the significance of this transition.

“In Kenya, media buying on social media platforms is predominantly done via an in-house team, doing deskside research on best practice, and using a company credit card to book advertising campaigns,” he said.

“With Aleph partnering with TikTok in the domestic market, not only is there a cost saving thanks to paying with local currency, but it also provides businesses direct access to insights from TikTok themselves,” Newton concludes.

TikTok's commitment to nurturing talent in Kenya was previously demonstrated through the #LevelUpAfrica Program, launched in 2021.

This initiative has helped numerous Kenyan creators refine their TikTok skills, build personal brands, and unlock new opportunities within the creator economy.

"We're thrilled to have been appointed as the creator management partner for TikTok in Kenya," said Mike Otieno, Co-founder & President, Wowzi.

"There is so much incredible creative talent emerging from Kenya, and TikTok provides a unique platform for these creators to express themselves, connect with the local community, and reach audiences around the globe. Our partnership will open even more doors and provide valuable opportunities for creators to thrive on the platform."