TikTok has revealed its intention to introduce a subscription model for content in Kenya, following the success of similar models in other African nations.

The short-form video hosting platform plans to adopt insights gained from its positive experiences in other African countries.

Fortune Mgwili-Sibanda, the Director of Government Relations and Public Policy for TikTok in Sub-Saharan Africa, mentioned that the initiative to charge for content is still a work in progress.

While speaking in Nairobi on Wednesday, Mgwili-Sibanda indicated that TikTok is contemplating the implementation of a firewall, requiring users to subscribe to access content.

“In terms of some of the features we have launched, the Tiktok Series allows them (content creators) to put their content around firewalls and have people subscribe.

“It is not yet in full force in Kenya as it is in other African countries. But that is something that we are working very hard on to make sure that we can roll it out here [in Kenya] so that we can address some of the concerns that the Kenyan government has raised with us.”

The social media platform notes that “as of June 6, 2023, creators in select regions who are 18 years or older, have an account that is at least 30 days old with at least 10K followers, have posted more than three public videos in the last 30 days, and have at least 1K authentic video views in the last 30 days, are eligible to join Series.”

According to the company, creators who don't have 10,000 followers yet still fit the other requirements can apply by using the TikTok app's Creator Center to share a link to premium content they've previously sold on other platforms.

“Application does not guarantee access,” it added.

The widely used social media application features user-generated videos ranging from three seconds to 10 minutes, enabling users to create, view, and share content recorded on mobile devices or webcams.

Kenya has emerged as the leading country globally in TikTok usage, accounting for 54% of the platform's global activity, according to the Reuters Institute Digital News Report 2023 survey. Notably, 29% of TikTok activity in Kenya focuses on staying informed through news updates.

TikTok is recognized as one of the fastest-growing social networks, with 44% of survey respondents reporting its use, especially among the 18 to 24 age group. Following Kenya, Thailand and South Africa rank second and third in TikTok usage.

Fortune Mgwili-Sibanda made these remarks during the launch of TikTok's collaboration with Yunus Social Business (YSB). The partnership aims to provide financial investment to selected social enterprises and deliver training and mentorship on various aspects, including branding, sales, e-commerce, and leveraging digital platforms for business success. Through this initiative, they plan to offer support to chosen social enterprises.

Youth, Creative Economy and Sports Cabinet Secretary Ababu Namwamba said: “TikTok has had an impact beyond entertainment and social interaction; it has influenced various aspects of society, education and philanthropy, positioning itself as an impact organisation by providing a platform for people from diverse backgrounds to share their stories, talents and creativity.”