...... How Eswatini Creators can earn money on TikTok
Entrepreneur, Digital content creator Zindzi Thwala has called for greater access to technology and affordable internet services to ensure more emaSwati can participate in the country's growing digital economy.
Speaking during a panel discussion at the TikTok Content Creators Masterclass in Ezulwini, Thwala said access to technology remains one of the biggest barriers facing aspiring creators.
She noted that while content creation continues to present opportunities for young people, many still struggle to access suitable devices and affordable internet connectivity.
According to Thwala, smartphones such as iPhones remain beyond the reach of many aspiring creators, while the cost of data continues to limit participation for ordinary emaSwati.
She stressed that government, private sector stakeholders and industry players all have a role to play in ensuring digital opportunities are accessible to everyone, regardless of their economic circumstances.
Thwala further encouraged creators to focus on developing their skills rather than becoming consumed by social media metrics.
She urged creators to prioritise the quality of their work and continuously improve their craft, noting that meaningful growth often follows consistency and dedication.
Her remarks formed part of a broader discussion on the future of content creation in Eswatini following the official launch of TikTok monetisation in the country.
Thwala also encouraged greater collaboration between telecommunications companies and content creators, saying partnerships could help make content creation more accessible to aspiring creators.
She noted that affordable data initiatives, creator support programmes and collaborations between network providers and influencers could help remove some of the barriers preventing young people from participating in the digital economy.
According to Thwala, expanding access to affordable connectivity would not only benefit creators but would also contribute to the growth of Eswatini's broader digital ecosystem as more emaSwati are able to create, consume and monetise content online.
Tik Tok monetization finally launches in Eswatini
The workshop brought together government officials, TikTok representatives, content creators and industry stakeholders to discuss opportunities within the growing digital economy and the future of content creation in Eswatini.
Speaking during the event, Minister for Information, Communications and Technology Savannah Maziya announced that local creators can now begin earning revenue through TikTok's monetisation features, opening new opportunities for content creators across the country.
The workshop, hosted by ERS in partnership with the Government, focused on empowering creators with the knowledge and tools needed to grow their platforms and maximise opportunities available through the digital economy.
Creators were introduced to monetisation opportunities available on the platform, including live gifting, subscriptions and brand partnerships.
The announcement marks a significant milestone for Eswatini's creator community, many of whom have spent years building audiences on the platform without access to local monetisation opportunities.
The event also featured discussions on content quality, digital safety, accessibility, platform growth and the future of content creation as a viable economic sector.
Government further encouraged content creators to register under the National Content Creators Register, an initiative aimed at building a database of local creators and strengthening collaboration within the industry.
The launch of TikTok monetisation is expected to create new opportunities for creators, businesses and brands looking to leverage digital content as part of Eswatini's growing creative economy.
During the workshop, TikTok representative Tholoane Ncheke Mahlaelela outlined several monetisation opportunities now available to creators in Eswatini.
These include Live Gifts, where viewers can send virtual gifts during live broadcasts that can later be converted into earnings, subscriptions that allow followers to pay for exclusive content and creator benefits, as well as brand partnerships between creators and businesses.
Mahlaelela encouraged creators to view content creation as a professional endeavour, noting that consistent, high-quality content would play a key role in unlocking opportunities on the platform.
She explained that creators who build engaged audiences stand a better chance of attracting commercial partnerships and generating income from their digital presence.
The workshop also provided insight into how creators will receive payments generated through the platform.
Representatives from the Central Bank of Eswatini, the Eswatini Revenue Service (ERS) and financial sector stakeholders participated in discussions on payment systems, financial compliance and taxation within the creator economy.
The officials highlighted the importance of ensuring that revenue earned through digital platforms is processed through recognised financial channels while encouraging creators to familiarise themselves with their tax obligations as the industry continues to grow.
Meanwhile ERS representatives said the emergence of a monetised creator economy presents new opportunities for economic participation and entrepreneurship, while also creating a need for creators to understand the responsibilities that accompany earning income through digital platforms.
Tik Tok is not a social media app- Tik Tok Representative
TikTok representative Tholoane Ncheke Mahlaelela says the platform should be viewed primarily as an entertainment platform rather than a traditional social media application.
Speaking during the TikTok Content Creators Masterclass held in Ezulwini, Mahlaelela highlighted the evolution of the platform and the changing ways in which users consume content online.
She explained that TikTok has increasingly become a destination for entertainment, discovery and information, with users relying on the platform for everything from lifestyle recommendations to educational content and news updates.
Mahlaelela further noted that TikTok is emerging as a powerful search platform, with users actively seeking information through video content rather than relying solely on conventional search engines.
She also encouraged creators to better understand how the platform operates, including the role of content quality, audience engagement and content relevance.
Addressing common misconceptions, Mahlaelela cautioned creators against over-relying on popular hashtags in an attempt to increase visibility.
She noted that creators should focus on producing quality content that resonates with audiences, rather than chasing trends without purpose.
Her remarks formed part of broader discussions aimed at helping creators understand the platform and maximise opportunities presented by the recent introduction of monetisation features in Eswatini.
