As the world continues to advance, with digital work becoming the new normal, social media has become a powerful platform offering countless income-generating opportunities. In Rwanda specifically, many young people are using these platforms as a means of self-employment, business expansion, and earning significant amounts of money—sometimes even more than traditional office jobs.
But where is this money coming from? How exactly are they earning it? Here’s a detailed explanation with real-life examples.
1. YouTube: The Leading Platform for High Earnings in Rwanda
In Rwanda, many have begun to understand the potential of YouTube. Content creators such as Yago (from Yago TV Show), Murungi Sabin (Isimbi TV), Killaman, Nyaxo, Dr. Nsabi, and many others have publicly stated that they earn monthly income from their videos through views, ads, and sponsorships.
Bruce Melodie runs a YouTube channel that earns him substantial income through the high viewership of his music videos.
Yago TV is a strong example: his interviews attract thousands of viewers, generating him monthly revenue in dollars.
Remember: once you reach 1,000 subscribers and 4,000 watch hours, YouTube starts paying you.
2. TikTok: A Rapidly Growing Powerhouse in Rwanda
TikTok has transformed the lives of many, especially youth. Many are earning money through live gifts, brand deals, and by promoting their businesses on their accounts.
For example, creators like Godfather and DJ Brianne host live shows where viewers send them gifts that can be converted into real money.
Some business owners in Kigali use TikTok to promote their clothing stores or other products and make real profits from it.
3. Instagram and Facebook: Platforms for Promotion and Business Growth
While Instagram doesn’t pay per view, it plays a crucial role in showcasing your brand and helping customers find you. If you have a large following, major companies may pay you to promote their products.
Influencers like Jolly Mutesi, Shaddy Boo, and others frequently advertise products for various companies (such as soaps, clothes, hotels) and get paid for it.
Clothing sellers like Cleoz Corner or those working in Kigali Heights use Facebook, Instagram, and WhatsApp Business to sell different items every day.
4. X (Twitter): A Platform to Build Your Name and Get Opportunities
Even though Twitter (now X) does not pay per post view, it is widely used by writers, consultants, journalists, and businesspeople to share impactful ideas.
Dr. Aline Umutoni and Dr. Dash actively use Twitter to share important insights, attracting influential followers and companies that later offer them collaborations and work opportunities.
5. Direct Online Business (Affiliate Marketing & Dropshipping)
Some promote other people’s products through social media and earn through referral sales. Others sell clothes, household items, or phones sourced from China or Dubai—without even keeping physical stock.
People sell ring lights, wigs, phone accessories, etc., through WhatsApp, Facebook, or TikTok alone. Many no longer operate physical shops, yet they earn between 50,000 – 200,000 RWF per day.
6. Online Teaching (Coaching, Courses, Tutorials)
Rwandans are now teaching what they know via social media: languages, IT, how to write CVs, business skills, and more.
A teacher offering English lessons on TikTok can get students from Canada, South Africa, or Rwanda.
Those teaching how to write CVs and cover letters can earn between 200,000 – 500,000 RWF per month, depending on how well they market their services.
7. Podcasting: Reaching Hundreds Through Conversation
Podcasting is gaining major traction. Many people are now recording audio or video conversations on various topics and sharing them on platforms like Spotify, YouTube, and Apple Podcasts.
Trevor Mugisha’s Trevor Talks Podcast has gained popularity thanks to meaningful discussions about life and development.
Podcasts like AfroBuzz and Kigali Unpacked host well-known guests, attracting companies that want to advertise through them.
8. Content Writing / Copywriting
Talented writers are landing jobs with businesses that want strong social media posts, blog content, or advertising copy.
Writers like Samantha Mugisha write about mental health and find opportunities through LinkedIn, including paid speaking invitations and freelance gigs.
9. Photography and Videography on Social Media
Photographers and videographers are thriving on platforms like Instagram, YouTube, and TikTok, where they showcase their work and attract clients.
Alpha Photography gained clients after posting high-quality photos on Instagram.
Shyaka Jean Paul has become a recognized name in music and film videography thanks to his consistent work on social media.
10. Becoming an Influencer or Brand Ambassador
Once you build a strong presence on social media, you can get hired to promote products like clothing, hotels, phones, cosmetics, and more.
Influencers like Teta Sandra, Anita Pendo, Divine Uwa, and Rusine work with big brands like MTN, Bralirwa, and Samsung Rwanda, promoting through photos and videos shared on their pages.
What You Need to Start Earning Through These Platforms
Know your strength: Are you good at speaking? Writing? Teaching? Identify your entry point.
Create engaging content: Use high-quality videos, good photos, and clean captions.
Be honest: Don’t fake it to get views, it will damage your reputation.
Keep learning: Use YouTube, TikTok tutorials, or ChatGPT to self-train.
Be consistent: Post weekly or daily—don’t disappear.
Use good tools: Canva, CapCut, InShot, Lightroom—all free and effective.
The opportunity to make money on social media is real, but it won’t call your name. You have to chase it.
In 2025, big money for young Rwandans isn’t only found in offices or government jobs. It’s on YouTube, TikTok, Instagram, and beyond. Do you have a smartphone? Internet access? An idea? Then the only thing you’re missing… is to start.
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