Kenyan creators shine, challenge Nigerians at 2025 TikTok Awards Sub-Saharan Africa

Kenyan creators made their mark at the 2025 TikTok Awards Sub-Saharan Africa in Johannesburg, putting up a strong challenge to Nigerian stars in Africa’s rapidly growing digital content scene.

Under the theme “New Era, New Icons,” TikTok celebrated creators who are shaping culture, storytelling, and social influence across the region.

While Nigerian creators dominated several categories, Kenyan innovators showed that the country is a rising force in social media and digital content.

The night was hosted by Bontle Modiselle-Moloi, with Red Carpet coverage by Keegan Gordon and Zayaan Noorani. Performances from top African talents, including Ciza, Lord Kez, Thuli P, DJ Fif_Laa, and Thabsie, kept the audience electrified.

Kenyan creators claimed two major awards. John Maingi Mbugua (@zozasportscast) won Sports Creator of the Year, edging out Nigeria’s Victor Ademola (@ademolavictortv) in a heated competition that showcased fan-led football analysis from Nairobi to the world.

John said: “Winning isn’t the finish line, it’s fuel for the next chapter. Every piece of content, every discussion, every moment captured was driven by passion, and receiving this recognition means that passion is resonating far beyond my expectations.”

In the Rising Star category, Nairobi-based @tunero_animations captured attention with clever, animated characters like Bob Kichwa Ngumu.

The Kenyan creator took home the award ahead of Nigeria’s Esther Francis (@estherfrancisbackup), highlighting the growing influence of Kenyan storytelling on the continent.

Despite Nigeria sweeping several top awards — including Creator of the Year (Raja’atu Muhammed Ibrahim @diaryofanortherncook) and Storyteller of the Year (Brian Nwana @briannwana) — Kenyan talent proved it can compete at the highest level.

Kenya’s representation in sports and animation categories underscores the country’s growing creative edge, especially in niche content that resonates locally and globally.

Other African countries, including South Africa, Tanzania, and Ghana, also featured prominently.

Tanzanian sports creator Fanuel John Masamaki (@zerobrainer0) won Video of the Year, while South Africa’s @malumfoodie claimed Food Creator of the Year.

TikTok Sub-Saharan Africa Head of Content Operations Boniswa Sidwaba said: “Tonight celebrated the trailblazers redefining what it means to be a creator in Africa. From Sokoto to Nairobi, we honoured those who turn 60-second clips into cultural movements.”

The ceremony will be rebroadcast exclusively on TikTok LIVE on December 11, 2025, at 20:00 SAST via the @tiktok.africa account.

Kenyan fans now have reason to celebrate as their creators continue to challenge Nigerian dominance, proving that the country is producing talent capable of shaping Africa’s digital narrative.