Celebrating Africa Day with Morris Kobia: How TikTok Influences His Creative Process and Cultural Promotion

Morris Kobia, also known as Motif Di Don, is a renowned producer and brand influencer from Nairobi, Kenya. With a record deal under SONY Africa, Morris has carved a niche for himself in the music industry. In this exclusive interview, he shares his insights on how TikTok has influenced his creativity, his celebration of Africa Day, and his dedication to promoting African culture.



Please tell us a bit about yourself and your background as a creator.

I'm a producer and brand influencer from Nairobi, Kenya. I'm currently signed under SONY Africa, and I'm passionate about creating music and engaging with fans through various platforms.


How has your experience on TikTok influenced your creativity and connection with your audience?

As a producer, branding yourself and engaging with fans through traditional media like TV and radio can be challenging. However, TikTok has been a game-changer for me. It allows me to directly connect with my fans through challenges and grow my brand. Based on their reactions and engagement, I can understand what kind of music fans are looking for.


In your opinion, what does Africa Day mean to you, and how do you celebrate it?

Africa Day means a chance for us to show the world our limitless potential. It's a day to celebrate our culture, achievements, and the diversity that makes Africa so vibrant. I celebrate Africa Day by producing Kenyan National holiday celebration songs, showcasing traditional music, and highlighting how rich and unique our culture is.


How do you incorporate African culture and influences into your content on TikTok?

On TikTok, I produce content that showcases the beauty of African culture. Whether through music, dances, or storytelling, I aim to highlight the richness and uniqueness of African traditions. I incorporate traditional music into my productions and show how it resonates with people. I hope to inspire others to embrace and appreciate their cultural heritage by doing so.


As a creator, how do you engage with the youth on TikTok, and what impact do you hope to make on their lives?

I have a platform called ELEV8, where I showcase young talents. I engage with the youth through this platform and provide them with opportunities to showcase their skills and creativity. I aim to create more job opportunities for young people in the entertainment industry. By supporting and nurturing their talents, I hope to positively impact their lives and contribute to their personal and professional growth.


How does music, particularly Afrobeats, inspire and influence your creative process?

Afrobeats has been a significant inspiration for me. It has shown that African music can achieve global recognition and success. As a producer, I'm working to create a new genre that resonates with Kenyans and can reach the same heights as Afrobeats and Amapiano. The infectious rhythms and vibrant energy of Afrobeats inspire me to push the boundaries of my creativity and explore new sounds.


What role does TikTok play in promoting and preserving African traditions, music, and culture?

TikTok plays a vital role in promoting and preserving African traditions, music, and culture. It can revive songs released decades ago and make them sensational once again. TikTok's platform allows us to share our cultural heritage with a global audience, creating awareness and appreciation for African traditions. It provides a space where creators can showcase their talent, collaborate, and engage with diverse communities, ultimately fostering cultural exchange and understanding.


How does your content on TikTok contribute to the global conversation and understanding of Africa's vibrant culture?

On TikTok, I remix various African phrases to showcase our exciting and diverse dialects. By incorporating these phrases into my content, I aim to pique curiosity and promote a deeper understanding of our vibrant culture. Through music, dance, and storytelling, I contribute to the global conversation about Africa's rich heritage and challenge stereotypes by showcasing the multifaceted aspects of our identity.


What does it mean to be African?

To me, being African means being raw and aggressive in our endeavours. It means embracing our roots, celebrating our heritage, and being proud of who we are. Africa is a continent full of resilience, creativity, and untapped potential. Being African is about embracing our unique experiences and using them to drive positive change.


How can we celebrate African identity without relying on stereotypes or cultural appropriation?

Celebrating African identity without relying on stereotypes or cultural appropriation requires us to develop campaigns and initiatives that celebrate our culture in a relatable and authentic way. By showcasing diverse narratives, highlighting positive role models, and promoting cultural exchange, we can help young people develop a strong sense of self and identity. Creating platforms that amplify African voices and provide opportunities for genuine representation is crucial, fostering a deeper understanding and appreciation of our culture.


What are some of the challenges and successes you have faced as a content creator in Africa?

As a content creator in Africa, one of my main challenges is finding investors or individuals willing to fund our projects. Monetizing content and connecting with the right people can be challenging. However, despite these challenges, there have been notable successes. TikTok has provided a global stage for African creators to showcase their talent, gain recognition, and build a supportive community. The platform has allowed me to connect with a diverse audience and receive positive feedback, encouraging me to continue creating impactful content.


What are some of the most important values or messages associated with Africa Day that you would like to promote?

From a musical point of view, I believe that good character and hard work are essential. As public figures, we must be role models and exemplify these values. Africa Day is an opportunity to celebrate our achievements, diversity, and cultural heritage. It's a reminder to embrace unity, showcase our potential to the world, and continue striving for excellence. Through my content, I aim to promote these values and inspire others to take pride in their African identity and contribute to the development of our continent.


Morris, aka Motif Di Don, is using his platform to celebrate African culture, uplift the youth, and create music that resonates with Kenyans and beyond. Through TikTok, he's showcasing the beauty of African traditions, breaking stereotypes, and positively impacting the global conversation surrounding Africa's vibrant culture. His dedication to his craft and commitment to creating job opportunities for young talents inspire creators and fans alike.