The digital revolution in Africa has taken center stage, and YouTube has emerged as one of the most influential platforms for content creators across the continent. From comedy and lifestyle vlogs to tech reviews and educational content, African YouTubers are making their mark globally and earning substantial income from their platforms. This article highlights the highest-paid YouTube stars in Africa according to Forbes in 2025, showcasing their journey, content style, and earnings.
1. Wode Maya (Ghana)
Wode Maya, whose real name is Berthold Kobby Winkler Ackon, has become synonymous with African storytelling on YouTube. His channel focuses on highlighting positive stories and hidden gems across various African countries, shifting the narrative of Africa on the global stage. With over 1.5 million subscribers, his engaging content and authentic perspective have earned him major brand deals and ad revenue. In 2025, his estimated annual earnings are between $300,000 and $500,000, making him one of the highest-paid YouTubers in Africa.
2. Mihlali Ndamase (South Africa)
Mihlali Ndamase is a top South African beauty and lifestyle influencer whose YouTube channel is a hub for makeup tutorials, skincare routines, and lifestyle vlogs. Her influence extends beyond YouTube, as she frequently collaborates with major beauty brands and is a staple in South Africa's digital marketing space. With a subscriber base exceeding 500,000, Mihlali's estimated earnings for 2025 range from $200,000 to $400,000, primarily driven by brand endorsements and YouTube ad revenue.
3. Caspar Lee (South Africa)
Caspar Lee is a South African-born YouTuber who gained international recognition with his comedic sketches and collaborations. With over 6 million subscribers, Caspar’s global appeal has led to not only YouTube success but also acting roles and entrepreneurial ventures. His estimated annual income in 2025 is projected to be between $500,000 and $1 million, cementing his position as one of Africa’s top-earning YouTubers.
4. Miss Trudy (Kenya)
Miss Trudy is a Kenyan travel and lifestyle vlogger whose content focuses on exploring Africa's diverse cultures, hidden tourist spots, and urban developments. Her storytelling approach has attracted a strong following of over 300,000 subscribers. Her estimated earnings in 2025 range between $150,000 and $250,000, fueled by YouTube ads and sponsored travel campaigns.
5. Thee Pluto (Kenya)
Thee Pluto is a Kenyan social experiment and relationship-themed content creator. His unique style and interactive approach have garnered him a massive audience of over 500,000 subscribers. His projected earnings in 2025 are estimated at $200,000 to $350,000, driven by strong YouTube monetization and brand collaborations.
6. Nadia Mukami (Kenya)
Nadia Mukami is not just a musician but also a YouTube sensation. Her channel features music videos, behind-the-scenes footage, and personal vlogs that resonate with her fanbase. With over 400,000 subscribers, Nadia’s YouTube presence complements her music career, generating an estimated annual income of $100,000 to $200,000 in 2025.
7. Moses Bliss (Nigeria)
Moses Bliss is a Nigerian gospel artist whose YouTube channel features music videos, live performances, and inspirational messages. His impactful content has attracted over 300,000 subscribers, earning him between $80,000 and $150,000 in 2025. His music ministry has also boosted his digital presence significantly.
8. Uche Maduagwu (Nigeria)
Uche Maduagwu is well-known in Nigeria for his candid commentary on social issues and celebrity news. His YouTube channel, which has over 200,000 subscribers, has become a major platform for his outspoken views. His estimated annual income in 2025 is between $70,000 and $120,000.
9. Taaooma (Nigeria)
Taaooma is one of Nigeria’s most popular comedians on YouTube. Her skits, which capture relatable everyday situations in Nigerian households, have won her a massive following of over 1 million subscribers. In 2025, her estimated earnings range from $300,000 to $500,000, solidifying her position as a top digital creator.
10. Mark Angel Comedy (Nigeria)
Mark Angel Comedy is a well-known comedy channel in Nigeria, famous for its family-friendly skits. With over 8 million subscribers, it remains one of the most subscribed African comedy channels on YouTube. Their projected earnings for 2025 are between $1 million and $2 million, making them the highest-paid YouTube creators in Africa.
Conclusion
The rise of African YouTube stars is a testament to the continent's growing digital presence. These content creators have leveraged their talents, unique storytelling, and strategic collaborations to earn substantial incomes. As internet penetration continues to increase across Africa, the influence and earnings of YouTube stars are expected to grow even further, highlighting Africa’s potential in the global digital economy.
