How Much Does YouTube Pay in Kenya

How Much Does YouTube Pay in Kenya?Your Complete 2026 Guide

YouTube has transformed from a video-sharing platform into a legitimate income source for thousands of Kenyans. From comedians to travel vloggers, content creators are earning substantial monthly incomes that rival traditional employment.

This comprehensive guide reveals exactly how much YouTube pays in Kenya, breaks down the payment structure, and profiles the top 10 highest-earning Kenyan YouTubers. Whether you’re considering starting a channel or simply curious about creator earnings, you’ll discover the real numbers behind Kenya’s YouTube success stories.

How much does YouTube pay per 1,000 views in Kenya

Understanding YouTube’s Payment Structure

YouTube doesn’t pay a fixed amount per view. Instead, earnings depend on complex factors including viewer location, content niche, and advertiser demand.

CPM vs RPM: The Critical Difference

CPM stands for Cost Per Mille, meaning the cost advertisers pay for 1,000 ad impressions. In Kenya, the average YouTube CPM typically ranges from $0.50 to $3.00, though some sources cite CPM rates around $3.20 for Kenya.

However, CPM isn’t what you actually earn. YouTube takes approximately 45% of advertising revenue, leaving creators with their RPM (Revenue Per Mille).

RPM represents your actual earnings per 1,000 views after YouTube’s cut. For most Kenyan channels, the RPM can range from $0.50 to $4.00 (approximately KES 65 to KES 520) per 1,000 views.

This distinction matters tremendously. If advertisers pay $2 CPM, your RPM might only be $1 after YouTube’s cut, meaning you earn KES 130 per 1,000 views at current exchange rates.

How Much Does YouTube Pay Per View in Kenya?

Based on statistics from various YouTubers in Kenya, 1,000 views pays approximately KES 100, with the amount going as high as KES 200 per 1,000 views depending on the source of traffic and number of clicks.

Breaking it down per single view, YouTubers earn approximately KES 0.10 to KES 0.20 per view. While this seems small, it accumulates significantly with viral content.

According to data from various Kenyan YouTubers, you can expect to earn approximately 100 – 130 Kenyan Shillings (KSh) ($1) per 1,000 views, translating to about $1,000 (K.sh 100k – K.sh 150k) for every million views.

Factors Affecting YouTube Earnings in Kenya

Viewer Location Determines Payment

Where your audience watches from dramatically impacts earnings. Some content creators, especially those who attract viewers from the United States, can achieve RPMs as high as $5.

Views from the US, Canada, Australia, or UK generate significantly higher CPMs than Kenyan views. A creator with 50% American audience earns substantially more than one with 100% Kenyan viewers.

Content Niche Matters Tremendously

Finance, including ‘make money online’ topics, is the highest-paid niche in 2025 with an average CPM of $15-$50, while affiliate marketing videos average $17 CPM.

The most profitable topics include entertainment, sports, health, fitness, real estate, travel & tourism, recipe/cooking and music.

Children’s content typically earns less despite high view counts. Privacy laws restrict advertiser data collection on minors, reducing CPMs for kids’ content.

Video Length and Quality

Videos over 8 minutes can show ads in the middle of the content, with more ads usually meaning more money. Longer videos accommodate multiple ad placements, multiplying earning potential.

High-quality production increases watch time. Videos that keep viewers engaged longer earn more as YouTube rewards content that keeps people on the platform.

Audience Engagement

Watch time, likes, comments, and shares influence earnings. YouTube’s algorithm pushes engaging content to more viewers, increasing monetization opportunities.

Click-through rates on ads affect revenue. Videos inspiring viewers to click ads generate more advertiser value, potentially increasing future CPMs.

How YouTube Payments Work in Kenya

How YouTube Payments Work in Kenya

Understanding the payment process helps creators plan their finances and anticipate income timing.

Monetization Requirements

To start earning, channels must meet YouTube Partner Program requirements: a minimum watch time of 4,000 hours and at least 1,000 subscribers.

These thresholds ensure creators demonstrate consistent content quality and audience building before accessing monetization.

Additionally, channels must comply with YouTube’s community guidelines and copyright policies. Violations can result in demonetization or channel termination.

Payment Process and Timing

YouTube tracks earnings through Google AdSense. Once you reach $100 in earnings, payment processes the following month.

YouTube does not currently pay through M-PESA. Instead, YouTube creators in Kenya have to withdraw their earnings to their local bank or digital wallet like IntaSend via a wire transfer or EFT.

Kenya: Payments go to your local bank (like Equity or KCB), and from there, you can withdraw via M-Pesa.

Most Kenyan creators receive payments via local banks, then transfer funds to M-PESA for everyday use. Payment timing depends on AdSense processing and bank transfer speeds.

Tax Implications

YouTube withholds taxes based on your location and tax information submitted to AdSense. Kenyan creators should consult tax professionals regarding income declaration requirements.

The Kenya Revenue Authority requires declaring all income sources. YouTube earnings constitute taxable income subject to Kenya’s tax regulations.

Top 10 Highest Earning YouTubers in Kenya (2025)

These content creators represent the pinnacle of Kenya’s YouTube success, earning substantial monthly incomes through dedication and strategic content creation.

1. Oga Obinna – Multiple Channels (KES 1M+ monthly)

Oga Obinna, whose real name is Steve Thompson Maghana, is currently the most paid YouTuber in Kenya. His estimated monthly earnings exceed Ksh 1 million, thanks to a combination of ad revenue and sponsorship deals.

Obinna operates multiple channels including Obinna TV, The Obinnaz, and ObinnaTVExtra, diversifying his income streams. His main channel features the popular “Obinna Show Live” where he conducts engaging celebrity interviews.

Highest Earning YouTubers in Kenya

With over 1 million subscribers across his YouTube channels, Obinna’s content mainly revolves around comedic sketches and social commentary. His rapid rise in under two years demonstrates the potential of consistent, engaging content.

Channel: Obinna TV (main channel plus sub-channels)

Subscribers: 2M+ combined

Monthly Earnings: KES 1,000,000+

Content: Interviews, comedy, social commentary

2. I Am Marwa (Fredrick Marwa) – Travel Vlogging (KES 800K – 1M monthly)

iam_marwa, whose real name is Fredrick Marwa, is a popular Kenyan YouTuber known for his travel vlogs, showcasing adventures in over 36 countries, including Cuba and Mexico.

His channel, launched while he was in Colombia, has attracted 548K subscribers and amassed over 120 million views. His global audience significantly boosts his CPM rates compared to Kenya-focused channels.

Marwa’s content appeals to international viewers fascinated by his unique perspective on global travel. His videos consistently attract viewers from high-CPM countries, maximizing earnings per view.

Channel: I Am Marwa

Subscribers: 548K+

Total Views: 120M+

Monthly Earnings: KES 800,000 – 1,000,000

Content: Travel vlogs, cultural exploration

3. Mungai Eve – Entertainment News (KES 700K – 1.5M monthly)

YouTuber Eve Mungai told a local publication she earns on average Sh1.5 million a month and Sh700,000 on a ‘bad’ month. At just 21 years old, she has become a millionaire, earning over Ksh 1.5 million each month from her YouTube channel.

Recently she disclosed (through her boyfriend and director, Trevor) they earn more than 13.6 million shillings yearly from her YouTube channel. Her channel focuses on untold stories from the ghetto, celebrity interviews, and entertainment news.

With 743,000 subscribers and over 146 million views, her consistent upload schedule and viral content drive impressive earnings. She uploads multiple videos weekly, maximizing monetization opportunities.

Channel: Mungai Eve Media

Subscribers: 743K

Total Views: 146M+

Monthly Earnings: KES 700,000 – 1,500,000

Content: Celebrity interviews, entertainment news

4. Blessed Njugush (Timothy Kimani) – Comedy (KES 600K – 1M monthly)

Njugush, a comedian whose real name is Timothy Kimani, boasts 600,000 subscribers on his YouTube channel and receives approximately Sh1 million a month from YouTube, thanks to his hilarious skits.

Njugush creates comedy content with his wife Celestine Ndinda. Their viral videos, including the famous “ata sijaskia vibaya” sketch, built a massive following.

Beyond AdSense, he also earns a good amount of money from various advertisements and endorsements. His brand recognition opens lucrative sponsorship opportunities that supplement YouTube income.

Top 10 Kenyan YouTubers

Channel: Blessed Njugush

Subscribers: 650K+

Monthly Earnings: KES 600,000 – 1,000,000

Content: Comedy skits, family vlogs

5. Crazy Kennar (Kennedy Odhiambo) – Comedy Skits (KES 400K – 800K monthly)

Crazy Kennar has built a comedy empire through consistently funny skits featuring his group of friends. His unique comedic style and relatable content resonate with Kenyan youth.

His channel gained massive traction through viral videos that get shared extensively across social media platforms. This organic reach amplifies his YouTube views significantly.

Kennar diversifies income through brand partnerships. Major companies recognize his influence among young Kenyans, paying premium rates for product placements in his videos.

Channel: Crazy Kennar

Estimated Subscribers: 500K+

Monthly Earnings: KES 400,000 – 800,000

Content: Comedy skits, social commentary

6. Eddie Butita – Comedy & Entertainment (KES 400K – 700K monthly)

Eddie Butita is a prominent comedian, writer, and director known for engaging performances and creative comedy direction. He founded SPM Buzz, SPM Africa, and SPM Africa Studios, showcasing leadership in entertainment.

His YouTube content includes comedy skits, behind-the-scenes entertainment industry insights, and collaborations with other creators. These partnerships expand his reach and viewer demographics.

Butita’s business ventures complement his YouTube income. His production companies create content for other platforms, though YouTube remains a significant revenue stream.

Channel: Eddie Butita

Estimated Subscribers: 300K+

Monthly Earnings: KES 400,000 – 700,000

Content: Comedy, entertainment production

7. The WaJesus Family (Kabi & Milly) – Family Vlogs (KES 300K – 600K monthly)

The WaJesus Family channel features Kabi and Milly WaJesus documenting their family life, marriage journey, and parenting experiences. Their wholesome content attracts family-oriented audiences.

With over 458K subscribers, they’ve uploaded over 375 videos covering everything from pregnancy journeys to home renovations. Their transparency creates strong audience connection and loyalty.

Family vlogging attracts specific advertisers targeting parents and couples. Products like baby items, home goods, and family services pay premium CPMs for this demographic.

How Top Kenyan YouTubers Maximize Earnings

Channel: The WaJesus Family

Subscribers: 900K+

Monthly Earnings: KES 300,000 – 600,000

Content: Family vlogs, lifestyle

8. Henry Desagu – Comedy (KES 300K – 500K monthly)

Henry Desagu creates character-driven comedy that highlights various aspects of Kenyan life. His signature “umbwakni” catchphrase has become part of Kenyan pop culture.

His comedy often features exaggerated rural characters navigating urban situations, creating humor that resonates across demographics. This broad appeal drives consistent viewership.

Desagu’s theatrical background informs his video production quality. Well-executed sketches with clear narratives keep viewers engaged longer, boosting watch time and ad revenue.

Channel: Henry Desagu

Estimated Subscribers: 680K+

Monthly Earnings: KES 300,000 – 500,000

Content: Comedy skits, characters

9. Flaqo (Erastus Otieno) – Comedy (KES 300K+ monthly)

Flaqo gained fame through his “Keranta” and “Mama Otis” characters in comedic skits. His ability to portray multiple characters in single videos showcases impressive acting range.

His content often addresses social issues through humor, making commentary accessible and entertaining. This approach attracts viewers seeking both entertainment and substance.

Consistent upload schedules keep audiences engaged. Flaqo’s reliability in delivering new content weekly builds anticipation and repeat viewership crucial for sustained earnings.

Channel: Flaqo

Estimated Subscribers: 700K+

Monthly Earnings: KES 300,000+

Content: Comedy characters, social commentary

10. Jalang’o (Felix Odiwuor) – Entertainment & Talk (KES 250K – 400K monthly)

Jalang’o, a radio presenter turned politician, maintains an active YouTube presence despite his political career. His channel features interviews, comedy, and behind-the-scenes political content.

His celebrity status brings built-in audiences. Fans follow his YouTube channel to access content beyond his radio show, creating multiple touchpoints for engagement.

Political content can drive viral moments. Controversial or newsworthy videos generate massive view spikes, significantly boosting monthly earnings during election seasons.

Strategies to Increase YouTube Earnings in Kenya

Channel: Jalang’o TV

Estimated Subscribers: 900K+

Monthly Earnings: KES 250,000 – 400,000

Content: Interviews, comedy, politics

Comparison Table: Top 10 Kenyan YouTubers

RankYouTuberSubscribersEstimated Monthly Earnings (KES)Content Type
1Oga Obinna2M+ (combined)1,000,000+Interviews, comedy
2I Am Marwa548K800,000 – 1,000,000Travel vlogs
3Mungai Eve743K700,000 – 1,500,000Entertainment news
4Blessed Njugush650K600,000 – 1,000,000Comedy skits
5Crazy Kennar500K+400,000 – 800,000Comedy
6Eddie Butita300K+400,000 – 700,000Comedy, production
7WaJesus Family900K+300,000 – 600,000Family vlogs
8Henry Desagu680K+300,000 – 500,000Comedy characters
9Flaqo700K+300,000+Comedy
10Jalang’o900K+250,000 – 400,000Interviews, politics

How Top Kenyan YouTubers Maximize Earnings

Successful creators don’t rely solely on AdSense. Multiple income streams multiply their YouTube-related earnings substantially.

Brand Sponsorships and Partnerships

Companies pay creators directly for product features or dedicated promotional videos. Sponsorship deals often exceed monthly AdSense earnings for popular channels.

Rates vary by subscriber count and engagement. Creators with 100K subscribers might charge KES 50,000-100,000 per sponsored video, while those with 500K+ command KES 200,000-500,000.

Long-term partnerships provide income stability. Rather than one-off deals, ongoing brand ambassador relationships generate predictable monthly income.

Merchandise Sales

Popular creators sell branded merchandise to devoted fans. T-shirts, hoodies, and accessories featuring catchphrases or logos create additional revenue streams.

Platforms like Printful handle production and shipping. Creators simply design items and promote them, earning profits without inventory management headaches.

Successful merchandise lines can generate KES 100,000-500,000 monthly for top creators with engaged fanbases willing to support through purchases.

Paid Memberships and Patreon

YouTube’s channel membership feature allows fans to pay monthly fees for exclusive content, badges, and perks. Creators earn additional income beyond AdSense.

Patreon provides alternative membership platforms. Some Kenyan creators use Patreon for fan support, though it’s less common than in Western markets.

Even modest membership adoption helps. Just 1% of a 100K subscriber base paying KES 500 monthly generates KES 500,000 additional monthly income.

Event Appearances and MC Work

Celebrity YouTubers command appearance fees at corporate events, weddings, and brand activations. Popular creators charge KES 100,000-300,000 per event.

These opportunities multiply with channel growth. As subscriber counts rise, demand for physical appearances increases proportionally.

Event work requires minimal time investment. A few hours at an event can match or exceed weekly YouTube earnings, making it highly profitable per hour.

YouTube Income in Kenya

Strategies to Increase YouTube Earnings in Kenya

Aspiring creators can implement proven strategies to boost their earning potential significantly.

Create Content for Global Audiences

While maintaining Kenyan authenticity, address topics with international appeal. Global viewership dramatically increases CPM rates.

Use English or provide subtitles. English content or videos with English captions access higher-CPM markets effectively.

Research trending topics in high-CPM countries. Creating content around American or European interests while offering unique Kenyan perspectives attracts premium audiences.

Focus on High-CPM Niches

Finance, including ‘make money online’ topics, is the highest-paid niche in 2025 with an average CPM of $15-$50.

Technology reviews, business advice, and personal finance content attract advertisers paying premium rates. These niches justify high advertising costs through product values.

Avoid oversaturated low-CPM niches. While entertainment and comedy attract views, they generate lower per-view earnings than finance or technology content.

Optimize Video Length

Videos over 8 minutes can show ads in the middle of the content, with more ads usually meaning more money.

Target 10-15 minute videos for optimal ad placement opportunities. This length accommodates pre-roll, mid-roll, and end ads without feeling excessively commercialized.

Balance length with engagement. Longer videos only help if viewers watch them. Padding videos with filler content hurts watch time and algorithm performance.

Master YouTube SEO

Research keywords using tools like Google Trends and YouTube search suggestions. Optimize titles, descriptions, and tags for searchability.

Create compelling thumbnails that stand out. Eye-catching thumbnails increase click-through rates, pushing videos to more viewers through algorithm recommendations.

Engage viewers in first 30 seconds. Strong openings prevent early drop-offs that hurt watch time metrics and algorithm favor.

Maintain Consistent Upload Schedules

Regular uploads train audiences to expect new content. Consistency builds loyal viewership that returns reliably, stabilizing view counts and earnings.

Weekly uploads suit most creators. While daily uploads maximize potential, weekly schedules prove more sustainable long-term without burnout.

Batch content creation helps consistency. Filming multiple videos in single sessions creates content buffers for busy periods.

Build Engaged Communities

Respond to comments regularly. Engagement encourages viewers to return and participate, increasing watch time and algorithm recommendations.

Create viewer interaction opportunities. Asking questions, running polls, or hosting Q&As makes audiences feel invested in your channel.

Foster community beyond YouTube. Active social media presence drives traffic to videos while building relationships that convert casual viewers into devoted fans.

Common Mistakes Kenyan YouTubers Make

Common Mistakes Kenyan YouTubers Make

Avoiding these pitfalls accelerates channel growth and maximizes earning potential.

Expecting Quick Money

Unless you get hundreds of thousands of views, it’s hard to generate decent income—YouTube is not a gold mine for the lazy publishers.

Building profitable channels takes 6-12 months minimum. Creators must invest time consistently before seeing significant financial returns.

Focus on content quality over earnings initially. Great content builds audiences that eventually generate income, while monetization focus without quality stagnates growth.

Copyright Violations

Using copyrighted music or video clips without permission risks channel strikes or termination. Strikes suspend monetization, destroying income streams.

Utilize royalty-free music libraries. YouTube Audio Library and similar services provide free music avoiding copyright issues.

Create original content entirely. While harder initially, original content protects channels from copyright complications long-term.

Ignoring Analytics

YouTube Studio provides detailed performance insights. Successful creators study analytics identifying what works and replicating it.

Track audience retention graphs. Identifying where viewers drop off reveals content weaknesses to improve in future videos.

Monitor traffic sources. Understanding whether views come from search, recommendations, or external sources informs content strategy.

Buying Fake Views or Subscribers

Artificial inflation violates YouTube policies and risks permanent channel termination. Purchased engagement doesn’t translate to real earnings.

Fake metrics hurt genuine growth. YouTube’s algorithm detects artificial engagement, potentially suppressing content distribution.

Build authentic audiences organically. Real subscribers watch videos consistently, generating actual AdSense revenue unlike fake accounts.

The Reality of YouTube Income in Kenya

Understanding realistic expectations helps creators make informed decisions about YouTube careers.

Income Volatility

Monthly earnings fluctuate significantly. RPM is not constant, today it can be $2, tomorrow $0.47, the next day $0.20.

Seasonal variations affect advertising budgets. December typically sees higher CPMs as advertisers increase spending, while January often drops as budgets reset.

Viral videos create spikes. Single viral videos can generate months’ worth of typical earnings, though relying on virality creates unpredictable income.

Time Investment Required

Successful YouTube careers demand substantial time investment. Content creation, editing, and community management easily consume 40+ hours weekly.

Top creators often work with teams. Editors, cameramen, and managers help maintain upload consistency and content quality at scale.

Balancing YouTube with other income sources proves wise. Maintaining employment or freelance work during channel growth provides financial stability.

The Path to Sustainability

Those getting over 1 million views are the ones earning good money. For 1 million views, you’ll earn more than Ksh 200,000.

Reaching 100K subscribers typically marks sustainability. Channels this size generate KES 50,000-150,000 monthly from AdSense alone, increasing with diversification.

Multiple income streams ensure stability. Combining AdSense, sponsorships, merchandise, and memberships creates diversified revenue resistant to platform changes.

Building Your YouTube Success in Kenya

Building Your YouTube Success in Kenya

Taking action on YouTube requires strategic planning and consistent execution.

Start With Clear Goals

Define what success means personally. Whether KES 50,000 or KES 500,000 monthly, specific targets guide content strategy and effort allocation.

Set subscriber and view milestones. Breaking larger goals into smaller achievements maintains motivation through inevitable slow-growth periods.

Plan content calendars quarterly. Three-month content plans ensure consistency while allowing flexibility for trending topics or opportunities.

Invest in Essential Equipment

Start simple but aim for quality. Smartphone cameras suffice initially, though investing KES 30,000-50,000 in decent cameras and microphones elevates production value.

Audio quality matters more than video. Viewers tolerate moderate video quality but abandon videos with poor audio quickly.

Lighting transforms production value. Affordable ring lights (KES 3,000-10,000) dramatically improve visual quality compared to natural lighting alone.

Learn Continuously

YouTube’s algorithm evolves constantly. Successful creators stay informed through creator blogs, forums, and YouTube’s official channels.

Study successful channels in your niche. Analyze what works without copying, understanding principles behind successful content to adapt creatively.

Experiment and iterate. Test different content types, lengths, and styles, then double down on what resonates with your audience.

Network With Other Creators

Collaborations expose channels to new audiences. Partnering with similar-sized creators introduces both audiences to fresh content, accelerating growth.

Join Kenyan YouTuber communities. Facebook groups and WhatsApp communities provide support, advice, and collaboration opportunities among local creators.

Attend creator events and workshops. Networking builds relationships that may lead to partnerships, sponsorships, or valuable industry insights.

Making the Decision: Is YouTube Worth It in Kenya?

YouTube offers genuine income potential for dedicated Kenyan creators willing to invest time and effort consistently.

Realistic First-Year Expectations

Most new channels earn little the first 6-12 months. Focus on building subscriber bases and content libraries before expecting significant income.

Reaching monetization thresholds (1,000 subscribers, 4,000 watch hours) typically takes 6-18 months depending on content quality and upload consistency.

Early adopters who started years ago had easier growth. Today’s competitive landscape requires higher quality and more strategic approaches for similar results.

Long-Term Potential

Top Kenyan YouTubers earn KES 500,000-1,500,000+ monthly, demonstrating the platform’s income ceiling. These earnings rival or exceed professional careers.

YouTube’s Kenyan audience continues growing. Increased smartphone penetration and affordable internet expand potential viewership annually.

Creator economy trends favor content creators. Brands increasingly shift advertising budgets to influencers and content creators over traditional media.

Alternative Considerations

Starting blogs alongside YouTube channels diversifies content platforms. Starting a blog in Kenya costs Ksh 5,000 to Ksh15,000 and provides alternate income streams.

Freelance content creation skills developed through YouTube translate to paid opportunities. Video editing, scriptwriting, and production skills command premium rates.

YouTube skills build personal brands valuable beyond AdSense. Successful creators leverage their audiences into speaking engagements, consulting, or business ventures.

Turning YouTube Dreams Into Reality

Your Path Forward: Turning YouTube Dreams Into Reality in Kenya

YouTube success in Kenya requires no special advantages beyond dedication, creativity, and strategic execution. The top earners started where you are, building audiences one video at a time.

While earnings vary significantly based on countless factors, the platform offers genuine income potential for those willing to invest sustained effort. From Oga Obinna’s million-shilling monthly earnings to Mungai Eve’s entertainment empire, Kenyan creators prove that YouTube success is achievable locally.

The question isn’t whether YouTube pays enough in Kenya—clearly it does for dedicated creators. The real question is whether you’re prepared to commit the time, creativity, and persistence required to join the ranks of successful Kenyan YouTubers transforming content creation into lucrative careers.

Start small, stay consistent, and remember: every successful Kenyan YouTuber’s first video had zero views. Your journey begins with uploading that first piece of content and committing to the long game of building something valuable.

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Frequently Asked Questions

How much does YouTube pay per 1,000 views in Kenya?

Based on statistics from various YouTubers in Kenya, 1,000 views pays approximately Ksh 100, with the amount going as high as Ksh 200 per 1,000 views depending on the source of traffic and number of clicks. For every 1,000 views, a Kenyan YouTuber might earn between Ksh 64 and Ksh 387, depending on the current exchange rate, meaning with 1 million views, YouTube earnings could range from Ksh 64,000 to Ksh 387,000.

How much do you need to earn before YouTube pays you?

YouTube pays once your AdSense account reaches $100 (approximately KES 13,000). Payment processes the following month after hitting this threshold. Payments go to your local bank (like Equity or KCB), and from there, you can withdraw via M-Pesa. YouTube does not pay directly to M-PESA.

How long does it take to start earning on YouTube in Kenya?

You must first meet YouTube Partner Program requirements: a minimum watch time of 4,000 hours and at least 1,000 subscribers. Some creators hit the threshold in 3 months, others take a year or more. Consistent content creation and audience engagement determine how quickly you reach monetization eligibility.

Which content type earns the most on YouTube in Kenya?

Finance, including ‘make money online’ topics, is the highest-paid niche in 2025 with an average CPM of $15-$50, while affiliate marketing videos average $17 CPM. However, the most profitable topics for Kenyan audiences include entertainment, sports, health, fitness, real estate, travel & tourism, recipe/cooking and music. Balance high-CPM niches with topics you’re passionate about and knowledgeable in.

Who is the highest-paid YouTuber in Kenya?

Oga Obinna, whose real name is Steve Thompson Maghana, is currently the most paid YouTuber in Kenya, with estimated monthly earnings exceeding Ksh 1 million. He operates multiple channels including Obinna TV, The Obinnaz, and ObinnaTVExtra, with over 1 million combined subscribers. His diverse content includes interviews, comedy, and social commentary.