Meta responds over ‘fake’ monetization promise to Kenya Content Creators
By Elizabeth NgigiMeta, the parent company of Facebook, Instagram, Threads, and WhatsApp, has responded to concerns raised by Kenyan musician and content creator Michael Bundi over the monetization program rollout promise in Kenya beginning early this month.
This came after President William Ruto met with Meta chiefs and proceeded to announce on August 6, 2024, that local content creators will begin monetizing their content on Meta’s platforms
“Beginning today, Kenyan content creators can monetize their videos on Meta platforms. We urge our creatives to take advantage of this opportunity to not only enhance their incomes but also create job opportunities for others. We will continue to seek more opportunities for our youth to explore their talents.” the president stated.
President’s statement was reinforced by that of Moon Baz, Meta’s Africa, Middle East, and Turkey (AMET) Global Partnerships Lead.
Baz announced the rollout of the monetization tools; in-stream ads and ads on reels, designed to allow creators on Facebook to earn money through advertisements.
“This expansion will empower eligible creators in the vibrant creative industry in Kenya to earn money, whilst setting the bar high for creativity across the world and making Meta’s family of apps the one-stop-shop for all creators,” Baz stated in a press release.
Also Read: Meta rolls out two monetization tools In Kenya
However, on Sunday, August 18, Bundi shared his frustrations over an email he received from Meta, indicating that the monetization program was not yet available in Kenya.
“Hi Michael, thank you for contacting us again. At the moment, you are pre-registered for ad breaks. Your country is not supported at this time but the program is expanding! You will automatically gain access if we expand to your country.” The email read.
Expressing his disappointment, Bundi reacted, “Unfortunately, the in-stream ads monetization announced by William Ruto and Moon Baz has not taken effect in Kenya. This is the latest message I have received from Facebook. As a creator, I am very disappointed. No words!”
Moon Baz, acknowledged the issue and assured users that the company was addressing it.
“We are looking into this,” Baz responded to Bundi, without offering any timelines.