Look, you’re here because you want to make more money.
You’re tired of the 9-to-5 grind. You want the freedom and flexibility of working from anywhere, anytime.
And guess what? You’ve got the hustle in you. You just need the right vehicle.
That’s where this article comes in. Forget those “get-rich-quick” schemes. This is about real, legit ways to generate income online in Kenya.
We’re talking about platforms that are already working for thousands of Kenyans, and can work for you too. So, buckle up, because we’re about to dive deep into 11 online platforms where you can turn your skills and time into cold, hard cash.
11 Legit Online Platforms to Make Money in Kenya (That Actually Work)
| Platform | What it is | Best for | Pros | Cons |
| Upwork | Freelance marketplace | Experienced freelancers, diverse skills | High earning potential, global market access, secure payments | Competitive, requires strong portfolio, fees on earnings |
| Fiverr | Gig-based freelance platform | Beginners, specific service offerings | Easy to start, build portfolio quickly, diverse gig options | Lower earning potential initially, platform fees |
| Etsy | Handmade & vintage goods marketplace | Artisans, crafters, vintage sellers | Global reach for unique products, supportive community | Marketing and standing out can be challenging, platform fees |
| Shutterstock | Stock photography platform | Photographers, videographers | Passive income potential, global reach | Competitive, requires high-quality content, earnings depend on downloads |
| Amazon KDP | Self-publishing platform | Authors, writers, experts | Reach millions of readers, control over your work, passive income potential | Marketing can be challenging, royalties vary |
| YouTube | Video-sharing platform | Content creators, educators, entertainers | Massive audience reach, diverse monetization options, build a personal brand | Requires consistent effort, competition is high, algorithm can be unpredictable |
| Udemy | Online learning platform | Experts, educators, trainers | Passive income potential, global reach, share your knowledge | Course creation takes time and effort, marketing can be challenging |
| Airbnb | Short-term rental platform | Homeowners, property managers | Monetize your space, flexibility, meet new people | Requires property management, income can fluctuate, platform fees |
| Jumia | E-commerce platform | Online sellers, retailers | Reach a large Kenyan audience, established platform, marketing tools | Competition can be high, platform fees, logistics can be challenging |
| PigiaMe | Online classifieds platform | Selling used goods, offering local services | Local reach, easy to use, no fees | Limited to Kenyan market, safety concerns when transacting |
| Professional networking platform | Job seekers, professionals, career builders | Build your network, find jobs, advance your career | Requires active participation, building a strong profile takes time |
1. Upwork
To open our list of the best online platforms to make money in Kenya is Upwork.
I know you might have heard about, Upwork is a global freelancing platform connecting businesses with independent professionals.
It’s a giant marketplace where you can find work in writing, graphic design, web development, marketing, and more.
Why it works in Kenya: Kenya has a booming freelance scene. Upwork gives you access to a global market, meaning higher pay and more opportunities.
Plus, payments are reliable and secure, often in USD, which is a big plus.
How to win on Upwork:
- Nail your profile: Treat it like your online resume. Highlight your skills, experience, and past successes.
- Start strong: Take on smaller projects initially to build your reputation and get those 5-star reviews.
- Bid strategically: Don’t just undercut everyone. Focus on quality proposals that showcase your value.
- Deliver excellence: Always exceed client expectations. This leads to repeat business and referrals.
Top tools for Upwork success:
- Grammarly: Ensure your proposals and deliverables are error-free.
- Toggl Track: Track your time accurately for efficient billing.
2. Fiverr
Fiverr is another popular freelancing platform in Kenya, but with a twist. You offer “gigs” – specific services with set prices – starting from $5.
Why it works in Kenya: Fiverr is perfect for those starting their freelance journey. It’s less competitive than Upwork initially, and you can build a portfolio quickly by offering diverse gigs.
This makes it one of the best online platforms to make money in Kenya.
How to crush it on Fiverr:
- Find your niche: What unique service can you offer? Be specific and target a clear audience.
- Craft killer gig descriptions: Use strong keywords, highlight benefits, and make it irresistible.
- Offer gig extras: Upsell additional services to increase your earnings per client.
- Promote your gigs: Share your Fiverr profile on social media and in relevant online communities.
Top tools for Fiverr success:
- Canva: Create eye-catching gig images and promotional materials.
- VideoScribe: If offering video-based gigs, create engaging explainer videos.
3. Etsy
Etsy is the go-to platform for selling handmade goods, vintage items, and craft supplies.
If you’re creative and enjoy making things, this is your playground and one of the best online platforms to make money in Kenya.
Why it works in Kenya: Kenya has a rich tradition of craftsmanship. Etsy provides a global marketplace to showcase your unique creations, from jewelry and clothing to home decor and art.
How to thrive on Etsy:
- High-quality photos: Showcase your products in the best possible light. Invest in good photography.
- Detailed descriptions: Be specific about materials, dimensions, and any unique features.
- Competitive pricing: Research similar items to find the sweet spot.
- Excellent customer service: Respond promptly to inquiries and address any issues quickly.
Top tools for Etsy success:
- PicMonkey: Edit and enhance your product photos.
- ShipStation: Streamline your shipping process and manage orders efficiently.
4. Shutterstock
If you love photography, this is one of the best online platforms to make money in Kenya.
Shutterstock is a leading stock photography platform. Photographers can upload their images and earn royalties every time someone downloads them.
Why it works in Kenya: Kenya boasts breathtaking landscapes and vibrant culture. Capture these stunning visuals and sell them to a global audience.
How to make bank on Shutterstock:
- High-resolution images: Submit only top-quality, sharp images.
- Keyword optimization: Use relevant keywords to help people find your photos.
- Diverse portfolio: Offer a wide range of subjects and styles to appeal to different buyers.
- Consistency is key: Upload new content regularly to increase your earning potential.
Top tools for Shutterstock success:
- Adobe Lightroom: Edit and enhance your photos professionally.
- Keyword Tool: Research relevant keywords to maximize your reach.
5. Amazon KDP
Amazon Kindle Direct Publishing (KDP) allows you to self-publish ebooks and paperbacks on Amazon.
Reach millions of readers and earn royalties on your work.
So, if you are into publishing books, this is one of the legit online platforms to make money in Kenya
Why it works in Kenya: The barriers to entry are low. Anyone with a story to tell or knowledge to share can become an author.
How to succeed with KDP:
- Write a great book: This is the foundation. Focus on quality writing and engaging content.
- Professional cover design: First impressions matter. Invest in a captivating cover.
- Effective marketing: Promote your book through social media, email lists, and Amazon ads.
- Build a series: Increase your income potential by creating a series of related books.
Top tools for KDP success:
- Scrivener: A powerful writing tool for organizing and drafting your book.
- ProWritingAid: Improve your writing with grammar and style suggestions.
6. YouTube
YouTube needs no introduction.
Create and share videos, build an audience, and monetize your content through ads, sponsorships, and merchandise.
In this list of the best online platforms to make money in Kenya, YouTube is arguably the easiest to get into.
Why it works in Kenya: Kenya has a vibrant online community and a growing appetite for video content. Share your passion, knowledge, or creativity with the world.
How to win on YouTube:
- Find your niche: What are you passionate about? What unique value can you offer?
- High-quality videos: Invest in good equipment and editing to create professional content.
- Engage with your audience: Respond to comments, ask for feedback, and build a community.
- Promote your channel: Share your videos on social media and collaborate with other creators.
Top tools for YouTube success:
- Filmora: A user-friendly video editing software.
- TubeBuddy: Optimize your videos for search and grow your audience.
7. Udemy
Udemy is a popular online learning platform. Create and sell courses on any topic you’re an expert in.
Why it works in Kenya: Share your skills and knowledge with a global audience and generate passive income.
How to succeed on Udemy:
- Identify a profitable niche: What skills are in demand? What knowledge can you share?
- Create high-quality courses: Structure your course effectively, use engaging visuals, and provide valuable content.
- Market your courses: Promote your courses through Udemy’s marketing tools and your own channels.
- Build a following: Engage with your students, answer questions, and build a loyal following.
Top tools for Udemy success:
- Camtasia: Record professional-looking video lectures.
- Audacity: Edit and enhance your audio recordings.
8. Airbnb
Airbnb allows you to rent out your spare room, apartment, or entire house to travelers.
Why it works in Kenya: Kenya is a popular tourist destination. Capitalize on this by offering unique accommodation experiences.
How to maximize your Airbnb earnings:
- Create a compelling listing: Highlight the unique features of your space and your location.
- High-quality photos: Showcase your space in the best possible light.
- Competitive pricing: Research similar listings to find the sweet spot.
- Excellent communication: Respond promptly to inquiries and provide helpful information.
Top tools for Airbnb success:
- Airbnb’s own tools: Utilize their pricing tools and analytics to optimize your listing.
- Smart home devices: Enhance your guest experience with automated check-in and other features.
9. Jumia
Jumia is a leading e-commerce platform in Kenya.
As one of the legit online platforms to make money in Kenya, you can sell your products online and reach a wide audience.
Why it works in Kenya: Jumia has a strong presence in Kenya and offers a trusted platform for online shopping.
How to succeed on Jumia:
- Choose the right products: Research what’s in demand and identify your niche.
- Competitive pricing: Offer competitive prices and attractive deals.
- Optimize your listings: Use high-quality images and detailed descriptions.
- Excellent customer service: Respond promptly to inquiries and address any issues quickly.
Top tools for Jumia success:
- Jumia’s seller tools: Utilize their marketing tools and analytics to optimize your listings.
- Social media marketing: Promote your Jumia store on social media platforms.
10. PigiaMe
PigiaMe is a popular online classifieds platform in Kenya.
Sell your used goods, offer services, or find jobs.
Why it works in Kenya: PigiaMe is a trusted platform with a large user base in Kenya.
How to make the most of PigiaMe:
- Clear and concise listings: Provide accurate descriptions and high-quality images.
- Competitive pricing: Research similar listings to determine fair prices.
- Prompt communication: Respond quickly to inquiries and arrange transactions efficiently.
- Safety first: Meet buyers in public places and take necessary precautions.
Top tools for PigiaMe success:
- High-quality camera: Take clear photos of your items.
- Communication apps: Use WhatsApp or other messaging apps for efficient communication.
11. LinkedIn
LinkedIn is the world’s largest professional networking site.
Connect with professionals in your industry, find jobs, and build your career.
Why it works in Kenya: LinkedIn is a valuable resource for professionals in Kenya looking to advance their careers or find new opportunities.
How to leverage LinkedIn:
- Build a strong profile: Showcase your skills, experience, and achievements.
- Network strategically: Connect with people in your industry and engage in relevant conversations.
- Share valuable content: Post articles, share insights, and participate in discussions.
- Job search effectively: Use LinkedIn’s job search tools and apply for relevant positions.
Top tools for LinkedIn success:
- LinkedIn Learning: Enhance your skills with online courses.
- LinkedIn Premium: Access advanced features for networking and job searching.
This is just the beginning.
The online world is overflowing with opportunities. Choose the platforms that align with your skills and interests, put in the work, and watch your income grow.
Remember: Success doesn’t happen overnight.
Be patient, persistent, and always focus on providing value.
Now go out there and make it happen!
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