African Creators Call for Improved Monetization, AI Support at Continental Summit

Addis Ababa, May 8, 2026 (FMC) — Digital creators and social media influencers from across Africa have called for stronger monetization systems, policy reforms, and enhanced institutional support to help the continent’s creative industry compete globally in the digital era.

Speaking during panel discussions at the African Social Media Influencers Summit (ASMIS) in Addis Ababa, participants noted that African creators remain disadvantaged despite the rapid global growth of social media and digital entrepreneurship.

The discussions focused on how artificial intelligence is transforming content creation, while also highlighting structural challenges many African creators face in generating sustainable income.

Panelists described AI as a game-changing tool that is making content production faster, more affordable, and more accessible by enabling creators to produce videos, images, scripts, subtitles, thumbnails, and audio content with limited resources.

Nigerian comedian and digital creator Brain Jotter said artificial intelligence has become particularly valuable for young creators who may lack advanced production skills.

He noted that AI allows creators to turn simple ideas into professional-quality content while expanding creativity across industries.

Despite acknowledging AI’s growing role, some participants cautioned against overdependence on technology.

Botswana-based digital creator William Last KRM said originality and passion remain essential for long-term success, noting that he still prefers relying on his own imagination rather than artificial intelligence tools.

Beyond technology, creators identified monetization as one of the biggest challenges facing Africa’s digital economy.

They argued that while platforms such as TikTok and YouTube have built billion-dollar industries globally, many African creators still lack access to full monetization features available in other regions.

Some participants added that these limitations have forced many creators to rely on brand sponsorships, partnerships, or foreign-based accounts to generate revenue.

The influencers urged African governments and policymakers to recognize content creators as key contributors to tourism promotion, cultural diplomacy, investment attraction, and the broader digital economy.

They also called for financial support systems, improved digital infrastructure, and regulatory frameworks that encourage innovation without restricting creativity.

A recurring theme throughout the summit was the need for Africans to take ownership of their narratives and challenge long-standing stereotypes through authentic storytelling.

The summit, held at the Adwa Victory Memorial, brought together 61 influencers from 30 African countries with a combined audience of more than 321 million followers.

An additional 120 Ethiopian content creators, with a combined following of 150 million people, are also participating in the event, which focuses on shaping a new digital narrative for Africa.