Twitch, the global live-streaming platform best known for gaming and esports, has suspended monetization for creators in Kenya.
The move, which took effect on August 19, 2025, means streamers in the country will no longer be able to earn money through Twitch’s Partner or Affiliate programs.
For many Kenyan creators, this decision has come as a major setback. Monetization through Twitch offered opportunities to earn via subscriptions, Bits (the platform’s virtual tipping feature), and advertisements. While streaming remains possible, income from these official channels has been cut off.
In a statement, Twitch explained that recent regulatory changes in Kenya had made it difficult to continue offering monetization. The company did not provide exact details of the laws or policies involved, but said the decision was necessary to comply with the local environment.
Twitch also emphasized that it regretted having to take this step, noting that it understands how important monetization has been for creators who have invested time and energy in building online communities.
The immediate impact is that Kenyan streamers can continue broadcasting and interacting with their audiences, but cannot earn directly through Twitch’s monetization tools. Viewers in Kenya also won’t be able to subscribe or purchase Bits for their favorite local streamers.
For creators who had begun depending on Twitch revenue, the change is disruptive. However, there are still ways to generate income outside of Twitch’s official system. Many streamers already use third-party platforms such as PayPal, Patreon, M-Pesa, or BuyMeACoffee to accept donations. Others look for sponsorships, brand partnerships, or sell merchandise linked to their channels.
The suspension highlights the uneven landscape of digital monetization in Kenya. Other platforms have made strides to support creators:
Meta (Facebook and Instagram): In August 2024, Meta rolled out monetization features for Kenyan creators. Eligible users can earn from In-Stream Ads on Facebook and Ads on Reels, with payouts available through M-Pesa. This has been praised by many as a game-changer for the local creative economy.
TikTok: While TikTok allows live gifting and brand deals, full access to programs like the Creator Fund is not yet available in Kenya. This leaves many influencers relying on indirect income streams.
Selar: A Nigerian-founded digital commerce platform that launched in Kenya in 2024. Selar allows creators to sell digital products—such as music, e-books, and online courses—directly to their audiences.
The Twitch suspension, therefore, stands in contrast to the efforts by other companies to expand monetization in the region.
Kenyan Twitch creators now face the challenge of keeping their audiences engaged while finding alternative income sources.
Some are likely to shift their focus to Meta platforms where monetization is available, while others may double down on external support through donations and sponsorships.