TikTok expands in Kenya, gets unbanned in South SudanTikTok expands in Kenya, gets unbanned in South Sudan

TikTok, the short-form video social media platform, is strengthening its presence in Kenya by partnering with Aleph Holdings and Wowzi to improve ad operations and support local creators.

At the same time, a restriction order on Facebook and TikTok that had previously affected MTN subscribers in South Sudan has been lifted.

The partnership with Aleph Holdings and Wowzi in Kenya aims to strengthen TikTok's local support infrastructure while creating new opportunities for Kenyan businesses and content creators.

Aleph Holdings is a digital advertising company that focuses on making digital advertising accessible to its clients and Wowzi is an influencer-marketing platform that connects brands to African content creators.

"These collaborations empower not only Kenyan advertisers with unmatched access to cutting-edge digital ad formats and tailored local support but also open new doors for the immensely talented local creators to thrive and expand their presence on the platform," said Carl Jordan, TikTok's global business solutions head of sales for sub-Saharan Africa.

The company said TikTok's sales and support operations will transition to Aleph's dedicated Kenyan team, enhancing local expertise.

The social media platform added that the partnership with Aleph will provide Kenyan businesses with hands-on support and direct access to TikTok, simplifying the advertising process and optimizing the experience.

Related:Kenya authorities want TikTok live banned

The partnership aims to strengthen TikTok's local support infrastructure while creating new opportunities for Kenyan businesses and content creators. (Source: TikTok)

Stephen Newton, Aleph Holding's sub-Saharan Africa regional MD explained that in Kenya, media buying on social media platforms is predominantly done via an in-house team, doing deskside research on best practices, and using a company credit card to book advertising campaigns.

"With Aleph partnering with TikTok in the domestic market, not only is there a cost saving thanks to paying with local currency, but it also provides businesses direct access to insights from TikTok themselves," Newton continued.

TikTok said that Wowzi will take on the role of creator management partner, further empowering Kenya's vibrant creative community on TikTok.

"The partnership with Wowzi will elevate local creators, helping them to forge stronger connections with brands and agencies, opening new doors for creative expression and commercial success," it added.

"There is so much incredible creative talent emerging from Kenya, and TikTok provides a unique platform for these creators to express themselves, connect with the local community, and reach audiences around the globe," explained Wowzi co-founder and president Mike Otieno.

TikTok, Facebook South Sudan ban lifted

South Sudanese authorities have lifted a temporary ban on Facebook and TikTok which was imposed due to allegedly violent videos circulated online.

Authorities enforced the ban on social media platforms on January 23, 2025, for at least 30 days, after recordings showing the alleged killings of South Sudanese nationals in El Gezira state sparked riots and deadly reprisal attacks.

The country's regulator, the National Communication Authority (NCA), said the suspension was intended to prevent further escalation of violence.

Telecoms operator MTN South Sudan applauded the NCA for its quick lifting of the ban.

"MTN South Sudan thanks its esteemed customers for their patience during the restriction order and will continue to support the regulators, NCA and Media Authority, in their mandate to promote a safer digital space for all South Sudanese" the telco said in a post on X.

Amnesty International said the order to restrict all access to social media platforms is disproportionate and sets a dangerous precedent, especially when South Sudanese authorities have previously blocked news websites and disrupted the Internet.