DAR ES SALAAM: Rifaly, in partnership with Stanbic Bank Tanzania, hosted the second edition of Creators Day today, under the theme “Turning Creativity into Opportunity: The Future of Digital Content Monetization.” The event took place at the Stanbic Biashara Incubator in Dar es Salaam, gathering prominent content creators, business leaders, financial experts, and regulatory authorities.
The event aimed to equip Tanzanian content creators with practical strategies and tools needed to effectively monetize their creative work.
As Tanzania’s creator economy grows, creators increasingly require structured financial knowledge, industry networks, and supportive policies to build sustainable businesses and livelihoods from digital content.
The growing creator economy presents new opportunities for multiple sectors across Tanzania.
Financial institutions can offer tailored banking products and services for digital entrepreneurs. Brands and advertisers gain direct access to influential audiences through creators.
Media houses and communication platforms benefit from diverse, engaging local content, while regulatory authorities can facilitate an environment that enables creators to thrive responsibly.
The event began with welcoming remarks from Kai Mollel, Head of Business Incubator at Stanbic Bank Tanzania. She emphasized Stanbic’s commitment to supporting SMEs, including digital entrepreneurs and content creators, to effectively grow their businesses in Tanzania.
“We understand that content creators play an essential role in the economy, and we are dedicated to helping them establish the right foundations to succeed.” She added.
In his opening address, Loth Makuza, Product Lead at Rifaly, introduced the creator economy concept, highlighting the emerging opportunities for digital content monetization in Tanzania.
“The creator economy in Tanzania is growing quickly. Our goal is to empower creators by providing effective tools, financial opportunities, and direct brand partnerships,” he concluded.
Following the opening, Mika Chavala, founder of Swahili Nation and an established internet personality, presented practical strategies on “Understanding Content Monetization.”
Mika highlighted essential success factors, including consistency, strategic positioning, and clear self-branding. He emphasized the importance of creators realistically assessing the value of their brand when approaching potential clients.
“Creators must push beyond their comfort zones and find ways to differentiate themselves,” Mika said.
A panel discussion moderated by Subira Bawji, founder of Enderera Investment, followed. Panelists included Sharon Mujuni, Head of Transactional Banking Business & Commercial Banking at Stanbic Bank Tanzania; Mika Chavala; Kelvin Kimbeje, content creator and financial educator; and Brian Kalinga from Tanzania Communications Regulatory Authority (TCRA).
Key insights from the panelists:
Sharon Mujuni explained that Stanbic Bank actively collaborates with Tanzanian SMEs, including content creators, to help them build strong business foundations for sustainable growth.
Kelvin Kimbeje underscored the importance of financial literacy for creators. “Creators must learn how to earn, manage, save, and invest money,” he advised. He also encouraged creators to diversify income streams rather than depending on a single revenue channel.
Brian Kalinga emphasized ethical content creation, highlighting dignity and value as key components of successful content.
He noted TCRA’s role as an enabler, working closely with the Tanzanian government to promote local content. One strategy includes increased local content broadcasting on Tanzanian television and radio stations.
Closing the event, Loth Makuza reinforced Rifaly’s support for content creators through its digital platform.
“At Rifaly, creators earn 10 USD for every 10 pieces of content uploaded,” he said, stressing the platform’s role in directly connecting creators to advertisers and brands.
Creators Day witnessed enthusiastic participation, with attendees from various regions across Tanzania actively engaging through discussions and questions. Building on this success, Rifaly aims to host more such events in the future to further empower Tanzania’s growing creator community.
