A recent fallout between German-based Kenyan TikToker Nyako and fellow creator Marylinda has triggered wider conversations about how money is made on TikTok Live—and who really benefits from it.

Nyako has been using her platform to urge followers to understand how TikTok creators earn, particularly through features like “tapping” during live sessions. Her remarks come shortly after publicly criticising Marylinda over personal matters, including urging her to prioritise her child during pregnancy.

Be mean with everything you have 

In a series of livestreams, Nyako encouraged viewers to rethink how they support creators financially.

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“Check how these TikTokers earn every day on TikLeap. Be mean with what you have,” she said.

She claimed that some creators who receive large amounts of virtual gifts from fans rarely extend help to their followers, even when those followers are struggling.

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“You are promoting millionaires who are stingy. They can’t help you,” she added.

Pilot Nyako // Instagram

Criticism of wealthy TikTokers

Beyond the personal dispute, Nyako broadened her criticism to what she described as a culture of “stingy millionaires” among TikTok influencers. She argued that some creators who have gained wealth through fan support rarely give back to their audiences.

“They promote TikTokers who are millionaires and stingy. They can’t help you.”
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Mixed Reactions from Followers

Nyako’s remarks quickly drew mixed reactions from TikTok users, with some expressing surprise and others agreeing with her stance.

Phelisters Omuchenya wrote:

“Nani mwingine akawa amejua?”

Another user, Kenya TikTok United, responded:

“Nimejua Leo 💲💸💱💵🤑”

Some viewers appreciated the insight into monetisation:

“Wow, thank you 🙏🏻… siwezi tap hata hao wanapata pesa na mimi nalala njaa,” commented Khirrah.

Others felt the message, though valid, was delivered emotionally:

“There’s a lot of truth in what Nyako is saying… " It’s just that it’s coming out of anger,” noted another user.

ALSO READ : Unlocking Digital Wealth: How Kenyan Creators are Thriving on TikTok

Understanding “Tapping” and TikTok Income

“Tapping” refers to repeatedly liking a livestream, which can increase engagement and visibility. While it does not directly generate income, higher engagement can attract more viewers and gifters.

One commenter explained:

“Tapping attracts gifters… as a tapper, you gain nothing, but as a creator, you gain money.”

Marylinda // Instagram

Fallout with Marylinda

The comments come amid Nyako’s public fallout with fellow TikToker Marylinda. The disagreement appears to centre on Nyako’s criticism of Marylinda’s conduct during pregnancy.

Nyako accused her of neglecting self-care while frequently going live on TikTok instead of focusing on her health.

“Take care of your baby,” Nyako urged during one of her broadcasts.“You were pregnant and always on live, not even doing exercise.”