Africa isn’t just telling amazing stories, it’s now streaming them to the world. From movies and music to news and entertainment, African platforms are turning clicks into serious cash.
Some of these platforms are growing fast, building loyal fans, and making real money behind the scenes.
Here are five African digital streaming platforms that are absolute goldmines:
— Showmax (South Africa): A pioneer with Pan-African reach. Backed by MultiChoice, Showmax mixes local originals with global blockbusters. With its 2024 relaunch powered by Comcast’s Peacock tech, it’s set to dominate the continent. A true heavyweight.
— Aforevo (Nigeria): From Nollywood to the world. With millions of YouTube subscribers and its own app, Aforevo translates and distributes African films in over 50 languages. Low-key but massively profitable. A localization genius.
— Ayoba (South Africa): More than messaging, it’s a content super app. Developed by MTN, Ayoba offers music, videos, news, and chats, all in one. With over 25 million users, it’s turning engagement into revenue, fast.
— Boomplay (Nigeria/China): Africa’s most downloaded music app. Jointly run by Transsion (makers of TECNO, Infinix) and NetEase, Boomplay boasts over 100 million monthly users and a massive African music library. Streaming ears, streaming coins.
— Kwesé iflix (Zimbabwe/Southern Africa): Though the original Kwesé TV folded, Kwesé iflix pivoted early into mobile streaming across several African markets. A reminder that agility, not just scale, wins in digital Africa. Still referenced in the industry as a turning point.
These platforms are more than apps and algorithms. They’re gateways to culture, jobs, and capital, streaming not just content, but cash.
The smart money sees it: Africa’s digital wave is just getting started, and it’s already paying dividends.