TikTok has changed the way we engage with media from music, news and fashion, and according to a new report, the way we watch films and TV shows.
Through its vibrant community of local film and TV buffs, TikTok is influencing how and what Kenyans see on the silver screen.
By sharing shows, movies, and documentaries, these creators form part of a dynamic community that’s redefining how African audiences connect with and consume content.
According to the head of TikTok’s content operations across Sub-Saharan Africa, Boniswa Sidwaba, “Entertainment is synonymous with our platform. Our research has found that almost one in two (47%) users say that they have discovered a new movie by coming to TikTok.”
In the report, the social media platform says that movie studios, streaming platforms and broadcasters all benefit from additional exposure driven by creators on TikTok.
“By providing a full-screen, sound-on experience that enables content to thrive, users are more likely to watch something on the big screen,” the report says. “ In fact, over 44% of them are more likely to attend the movies at least once a month compared to non-users.”
Using the hashtag #WhatToWatch, creators post reviews, reactions and use trending sounds to help audiences effortlessly discover new shows and films they care about.
“With over 5 million global videos published to date and more than 365,000 new posts across Sub-Saharan Africa uploaded in the first half of 2025, this hashtag is a powerful barometer of how the continent is shaping its entertainment choices,” the report adds.
The Kenyan TikTok community plays this role by sharing reactions, reviews, and remixes of some of the most-watched shows like ‘Single Kiasi’, ‘Reckless’, ‘Mommy Club’, ‘Adam to Eve’, ‘The Chocolate Empire’, ‘MTV Shuga Mashariki’ and ‘Lulu’, among others.
Kenyan film content creators to look out for:
- June Claire (@juneclairedontre) serves audiences with a first-hand glimpse of local and international movies.
- Nkatha (@talk.film.to.me.podcast), host of Talk Film to Me, is known for her sharp and engaging film critiques.
- Lifestory328 is known for its short scripted stories about relationships, life experiences and everyday drama.
- Chika (@chikanwaogu) adds a satirical twist to trending movies and series, keeping audiences entertained and informed.
- Stellar (@_just_stellar) brings fans closer to the industry with behind-the-scenes content, trailers, and exclusive event coverage, offering fans a front-row seat to Kenya’s evolving entertainment scene.
All this, according to TikTok’s head of content across sub-Saharan Africa, Boniswa Sidwaba, plays a role in building a vibrant community around media that’s engaging.
“From rewatching local favourites to recommending international blockbusters, African creators enable audiences to laugh, reflect and ultimately build community around their favourite series and movies. These small screen moments connect people in ways that drive audiences to discover even more content to enjoy on the big screen.”
