How top Kenyan TikTokers performed globally in 2023

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How top Kenyan TikTokers performed globally in 2023

By Elizabeth Ngigi December 14th, 2023 3 min read

Kenyan creators and influencers have etched their mark on this international stage through TikTok.

The richness of Kenya’s talent on TikTok spans diverse genres and niches.

Comedians bring laughter with witty skits, and dancers dazzle with their moves, musicians captivate with Afrobeat rhythms, and makeup artists add sparkle to beauty trends.

Bianca Sibiya, Head of Content Operations for Sub-Saharan Africa says TikTok celebrates creativity and unites people globally.

“Its community-driven essence means anyone can become a creator and share their stories with a global audience.”

“#YearOnTikTok 2023 sets a benchmark for creativity, innovation, and meaningful connection. With its commitment to recognising top creators and their impactful work, this initiative aims to inspire, guide and empower the next generation of talent.”

Also read: TikToker Kinuthia bags nomination for Top creator 2023

Year on TikTok 2023 is based on internal research and trends analysis conducted from January to October 2023.

Check out how trends that came in 2023:

#ForYou Faves

In 2023, trending content took over For You feeds – especially across cooking, dance challenges, and life-altering experiences, with wildlife adding to the thrill.

Kenya:

@0 – In just one year, a novice cosplayer significantly enhanced her cosplay content and amassed an impressive following of over 800,000 followers.
@azz_iad – Queen Azziad shows us how a cool make-up transition is done
@thee_alfa_house – Can you move like we do?
@trisha_khalid – Love is tricky
@vinniebaite – A favour you say?
@tileh_pacbro – Our culture matters and so does a good transition video
@crazy_kennar – Crazy Kenna takes South Africa!
@beautyspaceke – Demonstrating an innovative two-in-one braided hairstyle
@Mohalicious_ – Listen to what your father says

The Playlist

This year, local artists leveraged the platform to give viewers a sneak peek into their latest hits, which catapulted into various dance challenges, resulting in musicians getting extra recognition for their undeniable skills.

Globally, the rise of amapiano and afrobeats further added to the diversity and popularity of TikTok.

Check out TikTok’s most popular songs of the year.

Also read: I am broke! TikTok ‘President’ Nyako begs for support to pay rent and bills

Kenya:

Jux and Diamond Platnumz – Enjoy
Jay Melody – Sawa
Platform TZ – Wivu
Alikiba – Mahaba
Bruce Africa – You
Guchi & Loud Behaviour – Notice Me
GeniusJinix66 – Juu
Diamond Platnumz – My Bay (feat. Chike)
Lony Bway & Marioo – Wewe Hapo
Tommy Flavour – Nakuja ( Feat. Marioo)

The Hitmakers

Kenya used TikTok, to share their songs to become viral sensations.

Kenyan music has become a phenomenon, with local artists topping the charts and influencing trends in other countries, proving the creativity and talent of the country’s musicians and producers.

Here are the most popular artists whose songs took over our ears and For You feeds in 2023, in Kenya.

Kenya:

Diamond Platnumz
Zuchu
Rayvanny
Bruno K
Billnass
Nandy
Willy Paul
Guardian Angel
Alikiba
Mboso

Learn on TikTok

With so much educational content, we learn while we scroll on TikTok! Users are no longer limited to traditional textbooks or long lectures; they can watch and learn on the go while enjoying entertaining videos.

Discover the most popular hacks, tricks, and how-tos that improved our lives in 2023.

@geektech_ke – An informative tech tutorial video offering valuable guidance on connecting your phone to your laptop
@rinaaywa – Home-made pizza hack using a gas cooker, designed to help anyone easily prepare delicious pizza at home
@graceodawo – Learning how to braid hair on a head sock
@simpleyemi – Simplyemi making his version of Pilipili Ya Kukaanga

Voices of Change

In 2023, creators continued to push boundaries, inspiring others to learn something new and advocate for causes they care about. These creators are making a huge difference in their country. Here are the changemakers who are using TikTok to spark good this year.

Bonga by @CapitalFMKenya – Tackling mental health
@lifestory328 – Tackling tough conversations around relationships
@moneygossip – Let’s talk about finances
@nanciemumbo – When passion for fashion meets mental health awareness

Also read: German-based Kenyan Tiktoker Nyako faces taxation ultimatum over TikTok earnings

Breakthrough Stars

2023 saw the rise of TikTok breakthrough stars on the platform. These talented creators have honed their skills and embraced the limelight, making their mark on the platform. From viral dance challenges to life-changing cleaning hacks, they know how to keep their audience coming back for more.

Kenya:

@fatboykenya – Kenyan animation is on the rise – God is fighting for me
@anxietities2.0 – A Cosplay Queen
@crazie_mwangi – Are you a morning person? Animation doing the things
@zfitnessw – Fitness is a lifestyle
@lifestory328 – Let’s try be understanding – A short film highlighting common marital conflict and resolution.

#FanTok

With millions of users worldwide, #FanTok offers a platform where fans can come together and create content that resonates with other like-minded individuals.

Here are the year’s most popular fandoms on TikTok in 2023.