Making Money on Social Media in Africa: 2025 Guide
- by 2025, Africa is officially in a digital revolution. With more than 600 million internet users, social media is more than a place to stay connected with family – it is a bustling marketplace for creators, influencers, entrepreneurs, and people just like you, to create real income. From Lagos to Nairobi, from Mogadishu to Cape Town, Africans are using social media platforms to create businesses, promote products and earn money from their influence.
- In this blog post, we will detail how to make money on social media in Africa in 2025, outlining the best platforms, proven ways to make money, tools, and tips for the greatest chance of success.
Why Social Media is a Gold Mine in Africa
- According to Statista, Social media usage continues to grow yearly in Africa by over 25%. Social platforms like Facebook, TikTok, Instagram, and WhatsApp have become embedded in daily life. The breadth of reach allows for different income-generating potential for young people, small business owners, and digital creators than just traditional businesses/direct sales.
- Best Social Media Platforms to Make Money in Africa (2025)
- Facebook is still the most used platform in Africa. With new tools such as Facebook Reels, Stars, and In-Stream Ads, users can get paid for their content on the platform. Start small with a business page or business group, and you can reach customers in your local area or internationally.
- TikTok
- TikTok is bursting in Africa with trending viral sounds and dances that have grown the community exponentially since the global COVID-19 pandemic. TikTok is also just as repetitive, recognizable, and funny as it has always been. Influencer marketing, bonus programs such as the TikTok Creator Fund, product promotion on TikTok using links, and an audience that enjoys direct interaction and engagement with creators will have new opportunities as Africa accelerates into a new economic development period.
What ways to make money through social media have been proven to be successful in Africa?
- Affiliate Marketing
Share products from websites like Jumia, Amazon, or local platforms with a referral link. When someone buys a product through your link, you get paid! Starting affiliate marketing is relatively easy and you don’t have to make, hold or pay for the products.
- Sponsored Content and Brand Deals
If your followers are good, brands will pay you to share their products. Even micro-influencers (5,000–20,000 followers) can make money promoting local brands in 2025.
- Selling Products or Services
Many African’s make money selling clothes, accessories, food, art, or digital services on Facebook or Instagram Shops. Creatives can sell services such as graphic design, voice-overs, and consulting too!
- Direct Monetization of Content
YouTube, Facebook, and TikTok are paying content creators based on views, engagement, or subscriptions. To qualify for platforms, it is a good practice to always post content regularly and create quality videos.
- Digital Courses and Ebooks
Experts in industries like farming, business, health, or tech are earning money selling digital courses and guides through their social media channels. African’s love e-learning, especially when it is affordable, and locally sourced.
- Livestreaming
Live video content is one of the most powerful ways to monetize your followers. Creators are able to receive gifts or tips from their fans on platforms like TikTok and Facebook. This is especially effective for musicians, comedians, or motivational speakers.
Suggestions for Thriving as an African Creator in 2025
✅ Start Small but Maintain Consistency
You don’t need the thousands of followers to earn. Instead, you need to be consistent in sharing, build trust with your followers, and build community.
✅ Focus on Niche Content
Whether its cooking, technology, parenting, or farming – find your niche and own it. They want to follow an expert that is based on one subject.
✅ Collaborate with Others
Work with other African creators to build your profile faster, skill share, and tap into new audiences.
✅ Learn Basic Digital Marketing Skills
You should know how to run Facebook Ads, write a good caption, and analyze the performance your content. These are important skills that will increase your chances of earning more.
✅ Keep up-to-date with changes
Platforms are constantly updating their monetization guidelines. Follow official pages or join African creator communities/groups on Facebook and Telegram.
Common Challenges (and Causes)
Cause Solution
Low Internet Speed Upload your content at off-peak hours or try and use wifi hotspots.
Payment Limitations Reach out to local fintech tools like Paystack, Chipper Cash, and MPesa to receive payments.
No Equipment Use your phone, equipment can wait until you have grown.
Language Barriers Use subtitles or use a mixture of your local language and English for wider accessibility.
Real Success Stories
Joy from Kenya - got started doing makeup
