Last updated on April 1st, 2025 at 01:27 pm
Looking for ways to make extra money in Kenya? Side hustles are perfect for boosting your income whether you have a full-time job or want to explore entrepreneurial opportunities.
The best side hustles in Kenya can earn you up to Ksh 50,000 per month with minimal startup costs and flexible schedules.
Kenya offers numerous side hustle opportunities that match different skills, interests, and investment levels. From digital freelancing to small-scale farming, there’s something for everyone regardless of your background or location.
Starting a side hustle helps you create financial stability while letting you pursue your passions. Many successful Kenyan entrepreneurs began with small side businesses that eventually grew into their main source of income.
1) Freelance Writing
While the advent of AI has disrupted the freelance writing industry, there’s still an opportunity for anyone to make money this way.
Freelancing is a top side hustle in Kenya for individuals with strong writing and SEO skills.
As a freelance writer, you can make money writing blog posts, sales copy, articles, and web content.
Platforms like Upwork and Fiverr make it easy to find your first clients.
You can specialize in niches like finance, health, or technology to command higher rates. B2B writers tend to earn more, so this is a route you might want to explore.
Start by creating samples that showcase your skills. Then pitch to potential clients or create profiles on freelance marketplaces to land your first gigs. Getting published in authoritative blogs and websites can help you land clients faster.
Simply guest post on such sites, and once your submisions are accepted, you can use them as your portfolio items. Now this can take time, meanwhile you could publish some on your personal blog.
2) Affiliate Marketing
Affiliate marketing is a simple way to make money online in Kenya.
You promote products and earn a commission when someone buys through your link.
To start, sign up for affiliate programs in Kenya. Popular options include Truehost, Sage, Amazon, and Clickbank that pay you for each successful referral.
Creating a YouTube channel works well for sharing product reviews with affiliate links. Many Kenyans watch videos before buying products.
You can also start a blog or use social media to share your affiliate links. Focus on products you actually use and like to build trust with your audience.
The best part? You can start with zero investment and work from anywhere with internet access.
Ready to give this a go?
… as a Truehost affiliate.
3) Poultry Farming
Poultry farming ranks among the most profitable side hustles in Kenya. You can start small with just a few chicken and scale up as your profits grow.
You don’t need a large piece of land to begin. Many successful poultry farmers operate in limited spaces, making this perfect for urban dwellers looking for extra income.
The best part about poultry farming is the multiple income streams it creates. You can sell eggs daily while raising birds for meat, giving you consistent cash flow.
Farmers can earn thousands of shillings monthly through proper management. Consider adding value by selling processed chicken products or exploring other agricultural ventures alongside your poultry business.
4) Group Fitness Instructor
Becoming a fitness instructor is a rewarding side hustle that combines passion for fitness with income potential.
You can lead classes in yoga, Zumba, aerobics, or boot camps.
Many gyms in Kenya hire part-time instructors for evening and weekend classes.
This fits perfectly around a full-time job schedule. You can earn between Ksh 1,000-3,000 per class depending on your experience.
You’ll need basic certification in your chosen fitness area, which can often be completed online or through weekend courses.
Fitness instructors can also expand their reach through online classes or social media.
The job keeps you fit while you earn. Plus, you’ll build a community of regular clients who can provide steady income as your reputation grows.
5) Content Creation
Content creation is a booming side hustle in Kenya where you can make money by creating videos, blogs, or podcasts.
Many Kenyans are turning to platforms like TikTok and YouTube to share their knowledge and earn income.
You can start by focusing on topics you’re passionate about. Whether it’s cooking traditional Kenyan dishes or explaining tech trends, authentic content attracts viewers.
Freelancing platforms offer opportunities to monetize your writing or design skills. You might create content for local businesses needing marketing materials.
Social media management is another angle. Many Kenyan companies need help creating engaging posts for their platforms but lack the time or expertise.
The beauty of content creation is the low startup cost. With just a smartphone and internet connection, you can begin building your audience today.
6) Remote Digital Marketing
Working as a remote digital marketer in Kenya can be highly profitable. You can manage social media accounts, create content, or run paid ads for clients worldwide.
Digital marketing side hustles are in high demand as businesses need online visibility.
As a digital marketer, you could specialize in:
- Search engine optimization
- Email marketing
- Content creation (blogs, articles,)
- Copywriting
The beauty of this side hustle is flexibility.
You can work from anywhere with internet access – your home, a café, or while traveling.
Start by learning one digital marketing skill thoroughly. Platforms like YouTube offer free tutorials to help you master specific areas like affiliate marketing.
With practice, you can earn between Ksh 20,000-100,000 monthly depending on your expertise and client base.
7) Online Tutoring
Online tutoring offers a flexible way to earn extra income using your knowledge.
If you excel in subjects like mathematics, sciences, or languages, you can share your expertise with students online.
Many Kenyan students need help with their studies, and online tutoring has proven to be a good side hustle. You can set your own hours and work from anywhere with an internet connection.
Platforms like Zoom make it easy to connect with students. You can charge between Ksh 500-2000 per hour depending on the subject and level you teach.
You don’t need special qualifications to start, just solid knowledge in your subject area. Many tutors find success by offering lessons via video calls in their spare time.
8) E-commerce Store
Starting an online store is one of the most profitable side hustles in Kenya today.
You can sell products locally or reach international customers without needing a physical shop.
E-commerce requires minimal startup costs. All you need is a domain name, web hosting, and products to sell. Many Kenyans are already making good money through platforms like Shopify.
Gift items are especially popular in the Kenyan market. Businesses like Purpink.co.ke have found success selling gift products online.
You can also turn your hobby into income. If you enjoy crafting, your handmade items could become your next successful business venture.
9) Handmade Craft Sales
Kenya has a rich tradition of craftsmanship that you can tap into for extra income.
Creating and selling handmade crafts like beadwork, carvings, or woven baskets connects cultural heritage with profit.
You can sell your crafts online through social media platforms or marketplaces like Etsy. Local markets, exhibitions, and tourist shops also provide great venues to showcase your items.
Start with crafts that need minimal investment. Materials for popular items like beaded jewelry or fabric crafts cost little but can fetch good prices, especially when marketed to tourists or export markets.
10) Real Estate Photography
Real Estate Photography is becoming a lucrative side hustle for Kenyans with photography skills.
Property sellers need high-quality images to showcase their listings online.
You can start this business with just a decent camera and basic editing skills.
Many real estate agents in Nairobi and other urban centers are willing to pay good money for professional property photos.
This side hustle allows for flexible scheduling. You can book photo shoots during weekends or after your main job hours.
The demand is growing as more Kenyans use online platforms to search for properties. Real estate photography ranks among the most practical side hustles in the property market.
To stand out, focus on lighting, angles, and highlighting a property’s best features. Clients will refer you to others when you deliver exceptional work.
11) Social Media Management
Managing social media accounts for businesses is a booming side hustle.
Companies need active online presences but often lack time to handle it themselves.
As a social media manager, you’ll create content, respond to comments, and grow audiences across platforms like Facebook, Instagram, and Twitter.
You don’t need formal qualifications to start. Good communication skills and platform knowledge are enough to begin offering this service.
Many Kenyan businesses will pay 10,000-30,000 KSH monthly for quality social media management. Start by helping small local businesses before expanding your client base.
The best part? You can run this hustle entirely from your phone or laptop, making it perfect for students or full-time workers.
12) Dropshipping Business
Dropshipping is a popular side hustle in Kenya that requires minimal startup capital. You can start with as little as Ksh 10,000 and make up to Ksh 20,000 monthly through this business model.
The concept is simple – you sell products without holding inventory. When customers place orders, you purchase items from suppliers who ship directly to buyers.
Many Kenyans are finding success with dropshipping cosmetics and other in-demand products. The business is attractive because it eliminates warehouse costs and inventory management.
To get started, you’ll need to find reliable suppliers and create an online store. Shopify offers platforms that make setting up your dropshipping business straightforward.
This business works well as a side hustle because you can manage it in your spare time from anywhere with internet access.
13) Print on Demand
Print on Demand is a business model where you design custom products that are only printed when a customer places an order. This side hustle requires minimal upfront investment and zero inventory management.
You can create custom t-shirts, mugs, phone cases, and more with your unique Kenyan-inspired designs. All you need is creativity and basic design skills to get started.
Services like Printful, Printify, and Gelato handle production, packaging, and shipping. You focus solely on creating designs and marketing your products.
This business works well with social media marketing. Showcase your designs to Kenyan audiences through Instagram and Facebook to grow your customer base.
14) Remote Customer Service
Many US companies are now hiring full-time customer service representatives in Kenya.
All you need is a good internet connection, a computer, and excellent communication skills.
Job platforms like MeetFrank regularly post remote customer support positions specifically for Kenyans.
These roles often come with flexible hours perfect for a side hustle.
15) Virtual Assistant
Working as a virtual assistant is a great side hustle in Kenya. You can provide administrative support to businesses or entrepreneurs from the comfort of your home.
Tasks include things like:
- Email management
- Scheduling appointments
- Data entry
- Social media scheduling
- bookkeeping
- Customer service
Many clients need help with basic tasks but don’t want to hire full-time staff.
You can start by offering virtual assistance services on platforms like Upwork or Fiverr. The demand for VAs is high as more businesses go digital.
Skills like social media management and bookkeeping can make you stand out. With good organization and communication skills, you can earn a steady income.
16) Podcast Hosting
Oscar Koome and Eli Mwenda, hosts of Mantalk.ke, have shown it’s possible to earn from this creative venture.
You only need basic equipment to start—a good microphone, headphones, and editing software. Many Kenyans begin with just their smartphones and free editing apps.
Choose topics you’re passionate about. Focus on local issues, entertainment, business advice, or cultural discussions that resonate with Kenyan audiences.
Monetization comes through sponsorships, advertisements, and listener donations. As your audience grows, brands will pay for mentions on your show.
The podcasting industry offers flexibility—record whenever it fits your schedule and grow at your own pace.
17) Blog Monetization
Starting a blog can be a profitable side hustle in Kenya. Once you’ve built an audience, you can make money from your content.
Ads are the easiest way to monetize. Join Google AdSense or Mediavine to display relevant ads on your site and earn per click or impression.
Affiliate marketing lets you earn commissions by promoting products your readers might like. Amazon Associates and Jumia Affiliate Program work well for Kenyan bloggers.
Sell digital products like e-books, courses, or templates. These have high profit margins since there’s no physical inventory.
Sponsored posts from Kenyan brands can pay well once you have a decent following. Companies pay for authentic content that showcases their products or services.
18) Stock Photography
Stock photography is a simple way to make money from your photos. You upload pictures to websites where people buy them for their projects.
Many Kenyans are turning their photography skills into income through stock photo sites like Shutterstock and Adobe Stock. These platforms pay you each time someone downloads your image.
To succeed, focus on taking high-quality photos that businesses need. Pictures of Kenyan landscapes, wildlife, and daily life are in demand from companies worldwide.
You can start with just your smartphone camera. As you earn more, invest in better equipment to improve your photo quality.
19) Online Course Creation
Creating online courses is a profitable side hustle in Kenya. You can share your skills and knowledge with others while earning money.
The process is simple – pick a topic you’re good at and create video lessons. Popular subjects include computer skills, languages, cooking, and business tips.
You don’t need fancy equipment to start. A smartphone camera and basic editing software are enough.
You can make money by selling your courses on these platforms:
- Udemy
- Teachable
- Skillshare
Many Kenyans are making money through online courses on platforms like Udemy and Teachable.
The best part? You create the course once but can sell it many times. This makes it a great passive income source for years to come.
20) Graphic Design Services
Graphic design is a high-demand skill in Kenya.
You can turn your design talent into a profitable side hustle by creating logos, social media graphics, and marketing materials for businesses.
The graphic design industry in Kenya offers many opportunities for talented designers.
Local businesses constantly need visual content for their brands.
You can start by offering basic services like:
- Logo design
- Business cards, and
- Social media graphics.
As you build your portfolio, you can charge more for specialized work.
Many Kenyan businesses hire graphic designer virtual assistants for ongoing design needs.
This gives you steady income rather than just one-off projects.
Kenya has several top graphic design agencies, but as a freelancer, you can compete by offering personalized service at lower rates.
21) Ride-sharing Services
Ride-sharing services like Uber and Bolt have become popular side hustle options in Kenya.
You can choose your own hours and earn extra cash during peak times. Many drivers work weekends or evenings after their regular jobs.
The requirements are simple:
- Reliable vehicle
- Valid driver’s license, and
- Good driving record.
Your earnings depend on how much time you put in and when you drive.
This option works well if you enjoy driving and meeting new people.
The flexible scheduling makes it perfect for fitting around your existing commitments.
22) SEO Consulting
SEO consulting helps businesses improve their website rankings on search engines.
As a side hustle in Kenya, you can offer your expertise to local businesses struggling to get online visibility.
Many Kenyan companies need help with SEO consulting but don’t have full-time specialists. You can start by learning SEO basics through free online courses and practice on your own website first.
Charge businesses for website audits, keyword research, and content optimization recommendations. Begin with smaller local shops that need affordable services to compete online.
You only need a computer and internet connection to start. As you build a portfolio of successful client results, you can increase your rates and expand your services.
23) Event Planning
Event planning is a profitable side hustle in Kenya that requires minimal startup costs.
You can begin by organizing small events like birthday parties or baby showers.
Event planners in Kenya are in high demand as people seek professional help for their special occasions. Companies like Billion Events have built successful businesses in this space.
To start, focus on a specific niche like corporate events or weddings. This helps you build expertise and a solid reputation.
Networking is crucial – connect with venues, caterers, and photographers to create a reliable team. These partnerships will make your services more attractive to clients.
Your planning skills can turn this side hustle into a full-time business with consistent effort and quality service.
24) Digital Art Sales
Digital art is a growing money-maker in Kenya. You can create illustrations, designs, or digital paintings and sell them online.
TikTok creators share that digital art is one of the best side hustles you can start from home. All you need is a computer or tablet and some creativity.
Popular platforms for selling your digital art include Etsy, Redbubble, and Society6. You can sell your designs as prints, phone cases, t-shirts, and other products.
You don’t need formal training to begin. Many successful digital artists learned through YouTube tutorials and practice.
Start by creating a portfolio of your work and sharing it on social media to attract clients.
25) Translation Services
Do you speak multiple languages? You can make good money offering French or Swahili translation services as a side hustle in Kenya.
Many businesses need content translated between English and Swahili or other local languages. This skill is in high demand for documents, websites, and marketing materials.
You can start by creating profiles on freelance platforms like Upwork and Fiverr. These sites connect you directly with clients needing translation work.
Translation work is flexible and can be done from anywhere. You set your own hours and rates based on your experience and language pairs.
Some translators also offer related services like transcription, subtitling, and proofreading to increase their income opportunities.
Understanding the Kenyan Side Hustle Culture
Side hustles are deeply woven into Kenya’s economic fabric, with a majority of full-time employees running secondary businesses to supplement their income.
This culture stems from economic necessity and entrepreneurial spirit that drives Kenyans to maximize their earning potential.
The Role of Technology
Digital platforms have revolutionized side hustles in Kenya.
Many Kenyans now earn through YouTube channels, where content creators share local stories, tutorials, and entertainment. You don’t need expensive equipment—just a smartphone and internet connection to start.
E-commerce has also opened doors for small traders. Platforms like Instagram, Facebook Marketplace, and WhatsApp Business let you sell products without physical shop costs.
This digital shift means you can target customers beyond your local area.
Mobile money services like M-Pesa have simplified transactions, making it easier to collect payments even from remote areas.
This financial technology supports side hustles by removing traditional banking barriers.
Popular tech-based side hustles include:
- Freelance writing and digital marketing
- Graphic design services
- Virtual assistance
- Amazon KDP publishing
- App development
Financial Challenges
Starting a side hustle in Kenya often means working with limited capital.
Most successful entrepreneurs begin with what they have—whether it’s Ksh 10,000 or Ksh 200,000—and gradually scale up their operations as profits grow.
The Kenyan side-hustle culture represents ambitious people trying to improve their lives despite economic constraints. You’ll find many juggling their day jobs with evening or weekend businesses to make ends meet.
Financial discipline is crucial for your side hustle success. Separating personal and business finances helps track growth and reinvest profits. Many Kenyans use chamas to pool resources for larger investments.
In a good month, side hustles like property brokerage can earn up to Ksh 80,000.
This extra income helps offset rising costs of living, with many Kenyans still facing financial pressures despite the inflation rate easing to 6.3%.
Regulations and Legal Considerations
Starting a side hustle in Kenya requires understanding the legal framework to avoid penalties and operate smoothly.
Kenya has specific requirements that vary based on your business type and size.
Licensing Requirements
Most side hustles require proper licensing before you can legally operate.
The specific licenses depend on your business type. For small retail businesses, you’ll need a Single Business Permit from your county government, costing between KSh 3,000 and KSh 10,000 annually.
- Online businesses can register with the Business Registration Service (BRS) and obtain a business name for KSh 850.
- If you’re selling food products, you’ll need additional permits from the Kenya Bureau of Standards (KEBS) and health certificates from your county.
- Service-based hustles like consultancy or freelancing might require professional certifications in your field.
Creative industries have their own regulatory bodies – musicians should register with Music Copyright Society of Kenya (MCSK), while writers register with Kenya Copyright Board.
Always check with your county government offices for the most updated requirements for your specific venture.
Tax Obligations
The Kenya Revenue Authority (KRA) requires all income-earning activities to be taxed appropriately. You must register for a Personal Identification Number (PIN) through the iTax platform before starting any business.
For small businesses earning less than KSh 1 million annually, you can opt for the simplified turnover tax at 3% of gross sales. Businesses earning more fall under regular income tax brackets. Keep accurate records of all transactions, even for cash-based businesses.
Digital services and online businesses must register for Digital Service Tax (DST) at 1.5% of gross transaction value. If your business involves importing goods, you’ll face import duties and Value Added Tax (VAT).
File returns quarterly or monthly depending on your business size. Failure to comply with tax obligations can result in penalties of up to 25% of unpaid taxes plus 1% monthly interest.
Consider hiring a tax consultant if your business grows beyond simple operations.