Why content monetization is crucial for Africa's creative industry growth

Starnews, a mobile video streaming platform, is making waves in Africa by providing a unique monetization model for local content creators. In an exclusive interview with CNBC Africa, CEO Guy Kamgaing shared his insights on the importance of promoting African stories and the impact of content platforms on the continent's creative industry. Kamgaing emphasized the need for identifying, training, and rewarding local content creators to ensure that Africa's reality is truly represented in the media landscape. One of the key themes that Kamgaing highlighted during the interview was the lack of platforms that cater specifically to the African market. While international content platforms like YouTube and Netflix have a presence in Africa, they were not created with an understanding of the unique challenges and realities of the continent. Starnews aims to fill this gap by focusing on monetization through partnerships with telecom companies and a subscription-based streaming model that directly benefits content creators. Key Points: 1. Monetization Model: Unlike traditional content platforms that rely on advertising or user data for revenue, Starnews sends all streaming revenues back to the creators. This approach allows content creators to earn money from their content from day one, making it a lucrative platform for African creatives. 2. Market Expansion: Starnews has seen significant growth in Francophone Africa and is now expanding into Anglophone markets like Nigeria and South Africa. With plans to enter Senegal and Ghana, the platform aims to be in at least 10 markets by the end of the next year and 15 markets by 2025. The focus on local operations and creator support sets Starnews apart in the competitive streaming market. 3. Content Aggregation: Starnews aggregates a wide range of content categories, including music, entertainment, comedy, sports, religion, cuisine, and fashion. By partnering with local creators and building their user bases, the platform ensures a diverse and engaging content portfolio that resonates with African audiences. In closing, Kamgaing expressed his optimism for the future of Starnews and the growth opportunities that lie ahead. With a clear roadmap for expansion and a commitment to supporting African content creators, Starnews is poised to make a significant impact on the African creative industry. As the platform continues to break into new markets and empower local talent, it is paving the way for a vibrant and thriving media landscape in Africa.