TikTok has revealed the complete list of nominees for the 2025 TikTok Awards Sub-Saharan Africa, which will take place in Johannesburg, South Africa, on 6 December 2025. The annual ceremony celebrates the achievements of artists, creators, and digital influencers across the region, highlighting the remarkable talent shaping Africa’s digital landscape.
The awards recognise creators who have gained prominence on TikTok over the past year, with categories spanning music, entertainment, food, sports, education, and storytelling. According to TikTok, the ceremony underscores the growing influence of African creators and their role in shaping digital culture, particularly on social media platforms.
Voting for the awards is currently open and will close at midnight (CAT) on 14 November. TikTok users are invited to cast one vote per category each day via the official voting page. The platform is also encouraging engagement through its regional accounts and content tagged with the hashtag #TikTokAwardsSSA, allowing users to actively support their favourite creators.
Among the most anticipated categories is Artist of the Year, showcasing some of the most exciting musical talent emerging from Sub-Saharan Africa. The nominees for this category represent a mix of established performers and rising stars, reflecting the diverse and vibrant music scene on the continent.
| Category | Nominee | Country |
|---|---|---|
| Artist of the Year | @theycallmeshallipopipp | Nigeria |
| Artist of the Year | @itsjoshuabaraka | Uganda |
| Artist of the Year | @moliymusic | Ghana |
| Artist of the Year | @realjazzwrld | South Africa |
The ceremony promises to be a celebration of both creativity and innovation, bringing together influencers, creators, and industry professionals from across Sub-Saharan Africa. In addition to recognising musical talent, the awards will shine a spotlight on achievements in other creative fields, from storytelling and education to lifestyle and sports content.
TikTok has emphasised that the awards are designed to inspire and empower the next generation of African creators, providing them with recognition and a platform to further their careers. The winners will be announced live at the Johannesburg event, offering a showcase of the region’s most dynamic and diverse talent.
As TikTok continues to expand its presence across the continent, the 2025 TikTok Awards Sub-Saharan Africa is set to highlight the creativity, influence, and global potential of African digital creators in 2025 and beyond.