Meta, the parent company of Facebook and Instagram, has launched an update enabling content creators in Nigeria and Ghana to monetize their content on its platforms.
This new policy, which became effective June 27, 2024, marks an important change. Previously, Facebook excluded creators with Nigerian and Ghanaian addresses from monetization unless their page was managed from an eligible country.
Expansion of Monetization Opportunities
This policy shift follows an announcement by Meta’s President of Global Affairs, Nick Clegg, in March 2024, confirming the rollout of monetization features in June.
“Monetization won’t be limited to just Instagram. Nigerian creators eligible to use our monetization products will be able to also monetize on Facebook as well,” Clegg stated.
With over 50 million Facebook users in Nigeria and more than 10 million in Ghana as of May 2024, according to NapoleonCat, this move opens up substantial opportunities for content creators in these countries.
Eligible creators can now earn from in-stream ads and live ads on Facebook, alongside existing monetization on Instagram.
How Content Creators Can Earn
In-stream ads allow creators to place advertisements within their new or existing videos, including live content.
Meta identifies natural breaks in videos for ad placements or allows creators to choose their ad spots. The types of ads include pre-, mid-, and image ads, with earnings dependent on advertisers and the number of video views.
Other monetization channels available include ads on reels, bonuses, and subscriptions.
Meta’s website details that the revenue from these ads can significantly enhance the earnings of content creators, leveraging the vast user base in Nigeria and Ghana.
Potential Tax Implications
This development follows a trend where digital income streams are becoming subject to local tax regulations.
According to Techpoint Africa, in April 2024, content creators and influencers in Ghana earning from platforms like YouTube, X (formerly Twitter), and TikTok were mandated to pay taxes.
This suggests that earnings from Meta’s platforms might also be subject to taxation, although specific guidelines are yet to be outlined.
