With Kenya’s growing digital economy, earning a living online has become more accessible than ever. From the streets of Nairobi to remote towns in Turkana, people are tapping into online opportunities to supplement their income, build full-time careers, or start side hustles. The shift has been driven by increased smartphone penetration, more affordable internet options, and platforms like M-Pesa that make it easier to receive global payments.
Whether you’re a university student looking to pay your tuition, a stay-at-home parent hoping to contribute to the household income, or a full-time professional wanting to earn extra cash in dollars or euros, this guide will walk you through practical, proven ways to make money online in Kenya—legally, sustainably, and without falling for scams.
Before diving into specific methods, here’s what you’ll need to get started.
What You Need to Get Started
1. A Reliable Internet Connection
A stable internet connection is essential for any form of online work. Depending on your location and budget, here are some popular options in Kenya:
- Safaricom Home Fibre – Ideal for stable Wi-Fi in urban areas.
- Faiba 4G – Offers affordable data packages with good speeds.
- Airtel & Telkom – Great for tethering with mobile hotspots in areas with coverage.
- Public Wi-Fi – Can be used in cafes or libraries but not recommended for sensitive tasks like financial transactions.
If you’re starting out on a tight budget, consider buying night bundles or YouTube bundles for learning and training purposes.
2. A Smartphone or Laptop
A good smartphone can be enough to begin with simple tasks like transcription, content creation, and social media management. However, for jobs like freelance writing, coding, or design, a laptop is more efficient. You don’t need the latest model—refurbished or secondhand devices from trusted vendors in Nairobi’s Moi Avenue or online platforms like Jiji.co.ke can work just fine.
Recommended specs for a basic freelance laptop:
- At least 4GB RAM
- Intel Core i3 or AMD Ryzen 3
- SSD storage if possible (faster performance)
3. Payment Accounts (PayPal, M-Pesa, Payoneer)
To earn money online, you’ll need a way to receive it. The most popular and trusted payment methods in Kenya are:
- PayPal – Works well with platforms like Upwork, Fiverr, and TranscribeMe.
- M-Pesa – Seamlessly integrated with PayPal for quick withdrawals.
- Payoneer – Ideal for receiving funds from international clients or marketplaces that don’t support PayPal.
- Wise (formerly TransferWise) – Great for converting and receiving international payments at lower fees.
How to Link PayPal with M-Pesa:
You can link PayPal with M-Pesa in just 5 minutes following the quick, simple steps shown below:
- Visit www.paypal-mobilemoney.com/m-pesa
- Sign in with your PayPal and M-Pesa details
- Confirm via SMS and email
- You can now withdraw or top-up using your M-Pesa balance
4. Basic Digital Skills
You don’t need to be a tech expert to start earning online. However, certain foundational skills will help you succeed:
- Typing and computer navigation
- Good English or Swahili communication (spoken and written)
- Email etiquette and professionalism
- Basic understanding of online tools (Google Docs, Zoom, Canva, etc.)
You can learn most of these for free through YouTube, Google’s Digital Skills for Africa, or free online courses from ALX or eMobilis.
Top Ways to Make Money Online in Kenya
Kenya’s digital workforce is growing rapidly, and there are countless ways to earn online—whether you want quick tasks, freelance projects, or to build a long-term income stream. Below are some of the most effective and proven methods.
1. Freelancing
Freelancing allows you to offer services to clients worldwide and get paid per project or hour. Kenya has a growing pool of talented freelancers, especially in writing, web development, and design.
Top Freelance Platforms:
- Upwork – Best for beginners and professionals; offers everything from writing to software development.
- Fiverr – Great for offering “gigs” like logo design, social media management, or voiceovers.
- PeoplePerHour, Toptal – Suitable for specialized or higher-paying projects.
Skills in Demand:
- Graphic design
- Article writing & SEO content
- Data entry and Excel tasks
- Virtual assistance
- Front-end and back-end web development
Tips:
- Build a strong profile with samples of your work.
- Be patient—your first job might take time, but ratings matter more than speed in the long run.
- Use local forums and Telegram groups like Freelancers Kenya for support.
2. Online Writing & Transcription
Kenya is known globally for producing skilled online writers and transcriptionists.
Writing Platforms:
- iWriter – Entry-level writing jobs
- Textbroker, Scripted, WriterAccess – Higher-paying with stricter requirements
- Local content agencies – Some Kenyan agencies outsource to locals at competitive rates
Transcription Platforms:
- Rev.com – Reliable but competitive
- TranscribeMe – Good for beginners
- GoTranscript – Accepts Kenyan workers and pays via PayPal
Tools Needed:
- A good pair of headphones
- A laptop (for transcription software)
- Strong grammar and listening skills
3. YouTube & Content Creation
If you’re comfortable on camera or have strong storytelling skills, YouTube can be a powerful income source.
Content Ideas That Work in Kenya:
- Day-in-the-life vlogs (Nairobi, Mombasa, rural life)
- Educational content (finance tips, language tutorials, tech reviews)
- Comedy and skits
- Food and travel
Monetization Methods:
- AdSense (starts after 1,000 subscribers and 4,000 watch hours)
- Sponsored content from brands
- Affiliate marketing (e.g., Jumia links in the description)
Tip: Consistency and quality matter more than expensive equipment. You can start with a smartphone and basic editing apps like CapCut or InShot.
4. Blogging & Affiliate Marketing
Blogging allows you to earn through traffic and affiliate links. It takes time, but once you build authority, the income can be passive and consistent.
Getting Started:
- Choose a niche: personal finance, farming tips, tech reviews, health, etc.
- Set up your blog using WordPress or Blogger
- Register a .co.ke domain for a local touch or .com for international appeal
Earning Sources:
- AdSense – Pays per click on ads
- Jumia Affiliate Program – Earns a percentage for every sale
- Amazon Associates – Works best if you have international readers
- Other Affiliate Platforms – ShareASale, ClickBank
5. Selling Digital Products
Kenyan creatives are selling everything from ebooks to Instagram templates and online courses.
Platforms to Use:
- Selar.co – Accepts M-Pesa and is Africa-friendly
- Gumroad – International platform with easy setup
- Payhip – Good for ebooks and one-time downloads
What You Can Sell:
- Ebooks (e.g., farming guides, business tips, exam preparation)
- Printable planners or budget sheets
- Graphic design templates
- Online training (recorded via Zoom or PowerPoint)
Tip: Promote via WhatsApp groups, TikTok, or Facebook pages to reach local audiences.
6. Online Tutoring & Coaching
If you’re knowledgeable in a subject—math, coding, languages, or business—you can make money teaching others online.
Where to Teach:
- Preply – Language tutoring platform (English, Swahili, French)
- Cambly – For conversational English; very flexible
- TeachMe.ke – Kenyan platform for tutors in academic subjects
Or start your own brand: Offer coaching through Zoom, Google Meet, or WhatsApp and collect payments via M-Pesa or bank transfer.
7. Social Media Management
Many local businesses and entrepreneurs need help running their Facebook, Instagram, or TikTok accounts.
How to Get Clients:
- Pitch local businesses (salons, restaurants, shops) directly
- Showcase sample posts and growth strategies
- Offer packages (e.g., KES 5,000/month for 3 posts a week)
Tools to Use:
- Canva for designs
- Meta Business Suite for scheduling
- Google Sheets for content planning
8. Dropshipping & E-commerce
E-commerce is growing fast in Kenya. Dropshipping lets you sell products without holding inventory.
How it Works:
- Create an online store (Shopify, WooCommerce)
- Add products from suppliers (AliExpress, local wholesalers)
- Promote your store via Facebook Ads or TikTok
- Only order from the supplier once a customer pays you
Alternative: Sell physical products via Jumia, Kilimall, or Instagram and manage deliveries with Sendy or G4S.
Passive Income Streams Online
Passive income is money you earn regularly with little ongoing effort after the initial setup. While it usually takes time and strategy to build, passive income can eventually free up your time and provide long-term financial stability. Here are some practical ways to generate passive income online in Kenya:
1. Blogging for Ad Revenue
Once your blog starts getting consistent traffic, you can earn money without constantly updating it.
Steps to Start:
- Focus on a topic with long-term relevance (e.g., farming, education, health tips)
- Write helpful, keyword-rich content that answers questions people search for
- Monetize with Google AdSense, Ezoic, or Mediavine (for high traffic blogs)
Tip: Use SEO tools like Ubersuggest or Google Trends to find popular topics in Kenya.
2. YouTube Channel Monetization
After hitting YouTube’s monetization threshold (1,000 subscribers and 4,000 watch hours), your videos can earn passive income through ads.
Best Passive Video Ideas:
- “How-to” videos (e.g., how to apply for a HELB loan)
- Reviews of phones, apps, or gadgets
- Evergreen content that remains relevant for years
If your videos rank well in search or go viral, they can continue earning for months or even years.
3. Selling Ebooks or Online Courses
If you’ve written an ebook or recorded an online course, you can earn passively by selling it on digital platforms.
Best Platforms:
- Selar.co – Accepts mobile money; ideal for local audiences
- Gumroad or Teachable – Great for international reach
Examples:
- A budgeting guide for Kenyan youth
- A short course on mastering MS Excel
- An ebook on agribusiness for beginners
4. Investing in Stocks or ETFs
While not technically “online work,” digital investing platforms let you earn passively over time.
Kenyan Options:
- NSE Market Apps – Such as AIB DigiTrader or Safaricom’s Bonga for local stocks
- Chumz App – For goal-based savings with returns
- Hisa App – Allows you to invest in U.S. stocks (Apple, Tesla, etc.) from Kenya
Note: Investing involves risk. Start with small amounts and educate yourself first.
5. Licensing Digital Assets (Music, Photography, Designs)
If you’re a creative, you can earn passive income by uploading your work to platforms that pay you when someone downloads or uses it.
For Music & Beats:
- BeatStars, AudioJungle, Pond5
For Photography:
- Shutterstock, iStock, Adobe Stock
For Graphics/Templates:
- Creative Market, Envato Elements, Canva Contributor Program
Once uploaded, your content can keep generating income for years with no further work.
6. Affiliate Marketing
You can promote other people’s products and earn a commission on every sale made through your link.
Examples of Affiliate Programs:
- Jumia Affiliate Program – Good for Kenyan buyers
- Amazon Associates – If your blog or YouTube reaches international viewers
- ClickBank, ShareASale – For digital and info products
You can insert affiliate links into blog posts, YouTube descriptions, Facebook pages, or even WhatsApp groups if used properly.
Passive income won’t make you rich overnight, but with patience and consistency, it can provide a reliable source of income—even while you sleep.
Avoiding Scams
As the demand for online work in Kenya rises, so do the number of online scams targeting beginners. From fake job offers to pyramid schemes, it’s easy to fall victim if you’re not careful. This section will help you identify red flags and stay safe while working online.
1. Common Online Scams Targeting Kenyans
- Fake Job Offers: These appear on social media or via WhatsApp and usually promise high earnings for simple tasks like clicking ads or liking pages. They often require a “registration fee.”
- Data Entry Scams: You may be promised data entry jobs but first asked to pay KES 300–500 for training materials or access—only to receive nothing.
- Get-Rich-Quick Schemes: These include forex trading platforms with unrealistic daily returns, crypto Ponzi schemes, or suspicious betting apps.
- Fake Freelance Platforms: Some websites may look like Fiverr or Upwork clones and ask for upfront payments to access jobs.
2. Red Flags to Watch Out For
- You’re asked to pay money before you start earning
- No clear company name, address, or contact information
- Job descriptions are vague and sound “too easy”
- You’re promised fixed returns without risk
- Poor English or broken Swahili in communication
- They contact you via Telegram or WhatsApp unsolicited
3. How to Stay Safe
- Do Your Research: Google the company name + “scam” to check for complaints. Use platforms like Reddit, Trustpilot, or Kenyan Facebook groups to ask for reviews.
- Never Pay Upfront: Legitimate platforms do not charge you to access jobs. If there’s any payment, it should be optional and clearly explained (e.g., Upwork connects or Fiverr Pro upgrades).
- Use Verified Platforms: Stick to well-known names like Upwork, Fiverr, Rev, or local government-supported platforms like Ajira Digital.
- Use Secure Payment Gateways: Always withdraw money using verified platforms like PayPal-M-Pesa, Payoneer, or bank transfers. Avoid suspicious apps or sites with no reviews.
- Join Trusted Communities: Telegram groups like Freelancers Kenya, Facebook groups like Online Jobs in Kenya, or forums on Nairaland can be helpful—but always be skeptical of links shared within them.
4. Kenyan Platforms You Can Trust
- Ajira Digital: A government initiative that offers training and job placement support for Kenyan youth in the digital space.
- eMobilis: Offers free and subsidized training in digital skills for online income.
- Kuza Biashara: Focuses on entrepreneurship and includes some digital income opportunities.
Avoiding scams is just as important as learning the right skills. Always ask questions, take your time to verify opportunities, and don’t be pressured into quick decisions.
Kenyan Success Stories
Real-life success stories can be the most powerful motivation. Thousands of Kenyans are already making a living online—some part-time, others full-time—across different industries. Here are a few examples to inspire you.
1. Cynthia, Freelance Writer from Nakuru
Cynthia began freelancing on Upwork in 2020 while still in university. With just a basic laptop and mobile hotspot, she started writing blog articles for $5 each. After consistently delivering high-quality work, she attracted long-term clients. Today, she earns between KES 80,000–120,000 per month writing full-time, while mentoring others through a Facebook group she started for new writers.
Her advice: “Start small, don’t fake skills, and focus on building a strong client relationship. The money comes with time.”
2. Brian, YouTuber and Tech Reviewer from Nairobi
Brian launched his tech review channel in 2021, creating videos about affordable smartphones, laptops, and internet hacks in Kenya. Initially recording with a borrowed phone, he slowly grew his audience. After crossing 10,000 subscribers, he began earning from AdSense, brand sponsorships, and affiliate links to Jumia.
He now earns over KES 60,000/month from his channel and gets invited to review gadgets by local and international brands.
His tip: “Your phone is enough. Just start. Kenyans are hungry for local content—they’ll support you if you’re consistent and honest.”
3. Millicent, Online Tutor from Kisumu
With a background in education, Millicent joined Preply to teach English online. Within a few months, she built a strong student base in Brazil and the Middle East. She charges $12/hour and teaches 3–4 hours daily, earning over KES 100,000/month.
Her tools? A refurbished laptop, noise-cancelling headphones, and a Safaricom Home Fibre connection.
Her advice: “Don’t underestimate your skills. People across the world are willing to pay for what we take for granted.”
4. David, Digital Product Seller from Eldoret
David creates and sells social media templates for businesses on Selar and Gumroad. Using Canva, he designs Instagram story bundles, business card templates, and digital planners. His templates have been downloaded hundreds of times, especially by local fashion businesses and SMEs.
He markets through TikTok and WhatsApp Status updates. He earns KES 30,000–50,000 monthly passively.
His words: “Even if you’re not a designer, tools like Canva make it possible. Learn one skill and package it well.”
These are just a few among thousands of Kenyans quietly thriving in the online space. The journey may not be instant, but it’s real, and the opportunity is open to anyone willing to learn, work, and stay consistent.
Tools & Resources for Online Work
To succeed in making money online, you need more than just motivation—you need the right tools and resources. Fortunately, most of what you need to start is either free or very affordable, and many platforms are tailored to work well in Kenya.
1. Essential Productivity & Work Tools
These tools help you stay organized, communicate professionally, and deliver quality work:
- Google Workspace (Docs, Sheets, Drive, Gmail): Free and cloud-based tools for writing, spreadsheets, collaboration, and email.
- Zoom / Google Meet: For meetings with clients or students.
- Grammarly: Helps polish your writing (free version is sufficient for beginners).
- Trello / Notion: Great for organizing your projects, tasks, and content ideas.
- Canva: A user-friendly design tool for creating graphics, CVs, social media posts, and digital products.
- Loom: Screen recording tool, perfect for creating tutorials or explaining work to clients.
2. Internet & Communication Tools in Kenya
- M-Pesa: Still the most reliable way to withdraw online earnings.
- Airtel Money / Telkom T-Kash: Useful alternatives for certain platforms.
- PayPal to M-Pesa Integration: Use to easily withdraw.
- Payoneer: Ideal for receiving international payments from companies that don’t support PayPal.
3. Online Learning Platforms (Mostly Free)
Before earning, you may need to learn. These platforms offer free or low-cost training:
- Ajira Digital: Government-backed training on freelancing and online work
- Google Digital Skills for Africa: Free certified training in digital marketing, career development, and more
- Coursera & edX: Offer free versions of premium courses (certificates cost extra)
- Udemy: Affordable, one-time payment for full courses. Look out for discounted sales.
- ALX Africa: Offers sponsored professional programs in software development, data science, and cloud computing.
4. Payment Platforms and Banking Tools
Reliable access to your earnings is essential. These tools help you withdraw, convert, and manage your income:
- PayPal (Kenya): Widely accepted by freelancing and writing platforms
- Wise (formerly TransferWise): Send or receive international payments with low fees
- Equity Bank & Co-operative Bank: Offer dollar accounts to link with Payoneer or Wise
- Chipper Cash & Flutterwave: Peer-to-peer payment solutions with growing support for digital workers
5. Communities & Job Boards
Networking helps you find work faster and avoid isolation.
- Freelancers Kenya (Telegram, Facebook): Active communities with job tips, gigs, and mentorship
- Online Jobs in Kenya – Facebook Group: 100,000+ members, daily opportunities
- LinkedIn: Optimize your profile and join remote job conversations
- Upwork Community Forums: Connect with global freelancers and learn platform best practices
6. Content Creation Tools
If you’re into blogging, YouTube, or social media marketing:
- CapCut / InShot: Mobile video editing for YouTubers and TikTok creators
- Buffer / Meta Business Suite: For scheduling social media posts
- Anchor.fm (now Spotify for Podcasters): Create and monetize a podcast for free
- TubeBuddy / VidIQ: YouTube optimization tools to grow your channel
Having the right tools doesn’t mean you need to spend a fortune. Start with the free versions, upgrade as needed, and always focus on delivering value—clients and customers will follow.
