Meta, Tik Tok teams touch down ahead of crucial talks with MACRA, local creators

MACRA Director General Mayamiko Nkoloma, along with the Head of International Relations and corporate Communication, Limbani Nsapato, confirmed the presence of the Meta crew ahead of the meeting at Bingu International Convention Centre (BICC) with local content creators.

The discussions, expected to be led by the Malawi Communications Regulatory Authority (MACRA), will bring together key stakeholders in the digital space to address growing concerns around content regulation, monetisation, and online safety.

Malawian content creators are preparing to push for clearer policies on earnings, particularly as platforms like TikTok and Facebook continue to grow in popularity across the country, with many creators complaining about limited access to monetisation features available in other regions.

Commenting on the development, Mikozi’s Bright ‘Ekcess’ Chiligo said by the end of the meeting they expect Meta and Tik Tok to clearly state why Malawi is not yet on list of countries eligible for monetisation and, above all provide, a clear solution to the problem so that content creators in Malawi can generate revenue from their art and creativity.

“We expect Meta and Tik Tok to clearly explain why Malawi content creators cannot earn online revenue just as those in Nigeria and what can be done to change the situation. 

“This meeting should lead to us achieving our main goal which is earning from our artistic and creative content,” said Chiligo.

The meeting follows MACRA efforts in pushing for monetisation of content on Meta and Tik Tok platforms by Malawi's creators. 

MACRA is expected to outline its stance on digital content oversight, amid rising debates on misinformation, harmful content, and the need for platform accountability in Malawi’s fast-evolving online ecosystem.

The presence of both Meta and TikTok signals increasing interest in Malawi’s digital market, with analysts are viewing the meeting as a potential turning point for the country’s creator economy.

Outcomes from the talks could shape how Malawians create, share, and earn from content going forward, marking a significant moment in the intersection between technology, regulation, and creative expression.