Facebook to pay content creators after Ruto deal

President William Ruto shares a light moment with comedian Stephen Okaka at State House, Nairobi. [PCS]

Kenyans will begin monetising their content on Facebook and Instagram by June this year.

This makes Kenya one of the few countries on the continent that enjoy the privilege.

The move was announced by Facebook President of Global Affairs Nick Clegg at a meeting with President William Ruto at State House Nairobi on Monday.

The announcement is a culmination of a year-long push by the government to have content creators earn from online content.

"Kenyan content creators who meet the eligibility criteria, will now earn from their Facebook and Instagram spaces as we start monetisation by June this year," said Clegg.

President Ruto praised the partnership. "Now content creators can begin earning from their imagination and creativity. I have kept my word to negotiate and get them fresh opportunities,"

"Our partnership is geared towards expanding opportunities for the youth. We are progressing our consultations to explore more opportunities for the youth through content creation," he said. He added: "We are banking on the digital space to create jobs for the millions of jobless youths."

The Head of State said it was through partnership with global digital platforms that the youth can have opportunities to exploit their talents.

Ruto welcomed plans to have monetisation available on M-Pesa.

"I am happy that the Meta team carried out an experiment to have the monetisation on M-Pesa and it worked," said Ruto.

He said the government was working on legislation to make it easier for foreigners to work with locals.

Clegg said the creative industry has created many job opportunities for the youth.

He urged Kenyans to take advantage of the move to improve their lives. Clegg added that Facebook was keen to help users know how to use monetisation tools.

ICT Cabinet Secretary Eliud Owalo said his ministry will ensure there is a conducive environment for creative content to thrive.