7 of The Best Freelance Jobs in Kenya to Make Money Online

Are you looking for an online or remote freelancing job? Do you want to work from home or anywhere in the world? Keep reading to discover seven of the best freelance jobs in Kenya that can help you earn money online.

Freelancing stands out as a prime method for Kenyans to earn money online from the comfort of their homes, and it’s gaining popularity for good reason. It provides the flexibility to work from anywhere, set your own hours, and be your own boss. And the best part? You can make a pretty penny while you’re at it!

The rise of remote work and the gig economy has created numerous opportunities for Kenyans interested in freelancing.

Freelancer working on laptop with coffee and notebook on table

What’s even better? Platforms like Upwork, Freelancer, and Fiverr serve as bustling marketplaces where you can showcase your skills to clients worldwide.

According to a survey conducted by the Kenya Private Sector Alliance (KEPSA), around 1.2 million Kenyans, comprising five percent of the population, engage in online work. The study revealed that these individuals earn an average of KSh 20,773, highlighting the significant role of the digital economy in Kenya.

Whether you’re a seasoned professional or just starting out, the internet makes it easy to find side hustle ideas, gigs or freelance opportunities in Kenya. And, with a smorgasbord of job categories to choose from, you can bid on projects that match your skills and interests.

If you’re ready to elevate your career and earn a substantial income from home, read on to explore some of the best online jobs to make money online in Kenya.

Top Online Jobs in Kenya

In Kenya, there are several freelance jobs that can help you make money online. Here are some of the best options:

Content Creation and freelance writing
Digital Marketing
E-commerce and drop shipping
Graphic Design and video editing
Virtual Assistance
Online Tutoring and consultation
Web development and design

1. Content Creator and Freelance Writer

Engaging in content creation and freelance writing can prove to be a rewarding endeavor, allowing you to leverage your creativity and writing prowess to earn money online.

There are different types of writing jobs you can do, including blogging, copywriting, and technical writing.

With the increasing demand for online content, there are many opportunities available for freelance writers in Kenya.

From crafting articles, blog posts, and website content to curating captivating social media content, there exists a consistent demand for skilled writers and content creators.

With a firm grasp of the English language and the ability to produce compelling content through research and writing, you can offer your services to clients globally.

Moreover, freelance writers and content creators have the option to specialize in specific niches, such as technology, healthcare, or finance, to distinguish themselves in a competitive market. By honing expertise in a particular domain, you can attract clients seeking specialized knowledge and content.

And it doesn’t stop at writing — freelancers can also provide valuable services like editing, proofreading, and copywriting, which are indispensable for businesses aiming to refine their content and messaging. You can charge per word, per project, or per hour, depending on the type of writing job.

Finding freelance writing opportunities can be pursued through various channels. Creating a profile on freelancing platforms like Fiverr, Upwork, Guru, or Freelancer is one approach. Alternatively, scouring job boards such as FlexJobs, BloggingPro, and ProBlogger can also yield promising leads.

As the demand for high-quality content continues to soar, freelancers stand poised to capitalize on this trend by offering their services to businesses and individuals seeking compelling content.

Learn more: How to become a freelance writer in Kenya

2. Online Tutor & Consultant Jobs

Offering online tutoring for students or consulting services for businesses presents a fulfilling avenue to earn money online in Kenya.

Academic Tutoring Jobs

Many students grapple with academic challenges and seek additional support to excel. By offering personalized, one-on-one online tutoring sessions, you can assist students in grasping intricate concepts, revisiting materials, and preparing for exams.

Subjects in high demand for academic tutoring include:

Math,
Science,
English,
History,
and Foreign Languages.

Platforms like Tutor.com, VIPKid, and TeachMeNow present numerous tutoring job opportunities, allowing you to set your rates and collaborate with students globally.

Business Consultant

For those with expertise in business or entrepreneurship, venturing into consulting can be fruitful. Small business owners and entrepreneurs often require guidance to enhance their ventures’ success.

Effective business coaching and consulting necessitate specialization within specific niches, such as:

Marketing Strategy,
Financial Planning,
Operations Management,
Sales Coaching,
Life Coaching,
and Relationship Coaching.

These roles demand robust subject matter expertise and adept communication skills in the online sphere. With the surge in remote work and the growing demand for online learning and professional development, online tutoring and consulting have emerged as promising freelance avenues in Kenya.

3. E-commerce

E-commerce entails selling products over the internet, presenting a promising venture in Kenya’s burgeoning online market. In an era of instant gratification, where doorstep delivery is preferred, starting an online business holds immense potential

Platforms like Amazon, eBay, Etsy, and Jumia have simplified the process of selling products online in Kenya. Whether it’s handmade crafts, electronics, vintage items, or digital templates, e-commerce offers a diverse array of opportunities to tap into the growing trend of online shopping.

Entrepreneurs can kickstart their journey by sourcing products from suppliers or manufacturers and showcasing them online.

Dropshipping, in particular, stands out as a hassle-free method to operate a business without inventory or shipping concerns. Acting as the intermediary between the supplier and the customer, you can sell products on your online store while the supplier manages shipping logistics directly to your customers.

This model demands minimal initial investment and can be managed from the comfort of your home, offering flexibility and autonomy.

To thrive in e-commerce, focus on niche selection, optimize your product listings, and prioritize exceptional customer service.

E-commerce-related freelance services have also seen a significant spike in demand, creating opportunities for freelance workers specializing in user interface design, copywriting, and other e-commerce-related services.

Seasoned e-commerce freelancers and entrepreneurs have the potential to earn upwards of Ksh 30,000 per month, contingent upon the job timeline and compensation structure, products’ demand and profitability, respectively.

4. Freelance Opportunities in Online Programming

For those seeking rewarding work-from-home opportunities with a background in web development or IT support, the realm of freelance online programming offers ample prospects to earn a substantial income while collaborating with clients globally.

Freelance Website Developer

Contrary to popular belief, you don’t necessarily need coding expertise to excel as a web designer. AI-powered website builders have democratized website creation, making it more accessible than ever.

Leveraging your creativity, you can craft visually appealing and functional websites tailored to clients’ requirements.

Proficiency in programming languages like HTML, CSS, and JavaScript enhances your marketability, enabling you to utilize platforms such as WordPress, Wix, and Squarespace to swiftly develop websites.

App Development

Experienced in app development? Freelance opportunities abound in creating apps for clients, ranging from straightforward to intricate projects. Tools like Xcode, Android Studio, and React Native empower you to develop apps across iOS and Android platforms, catering to diverse client needs.

Technical Support

Technical prowess opens doors to freelance roles providing technical support to clients. Whether troubleshooting website glitches, app malfunctions, or other technical issues, your expertise is invaluable. Utilize remote support tools like TeamViewer, AnyDesk, and Zoom to assist clients effectively from afar.

To thrive in the freelance programming sphere, cultivate a robust portfolio showcasing your expertise and projects. Platforms like GitHub and Behance serve as ideal showcases, attracting potential clients and solidifying your reputation in the industry.

5. Freelance Graphic Designer & Video Editor

In today’s visually-centric landscape, graphic design plays a pivotal role in shaping brands and marketing endeavors. Businesses, in their quest to stand out, constantly seek adept graphic designers to elevate their presence across various platforms.

Graphic Designer

If you possess a keen eye for design and proficiency in tools like Adobe Photoshop, Illustrator, InDesign, and Canva, freelance graphic design offers a lucrative avenue to showcase your creativity.

Building a diverse portfolio showcasing your design prowess across different styles and projects is key. Leverage social media platforms like LinkedIn and Behance to network with potential clients and establish your presence in the industry.

Graphic design is a future-proof skill worth mastering, as its demand transcends career paths and remote job opportunities, ensuring a steady stream of prospects.

Animation and Video Editor

With the surge in video marketing, skilled video editors are in high demand for creating engaging content, including animated videos and explainer videos. This presents a promising freelance opportunity, particularly for college students and content creators.

Utilizing software like Adobe After Effects and Premiere Pro, you can create captivating animations and edit videos with finesse.

To kickstart your journey in animation and video editing, curate a portfolio showcasing your expertise and bid on freelance projects through platforms like Upwork or Freelancer.

Given the proliferation of digital marketing, graphic design, animation, and video editing stand as sought-after freelance roles in Kenya. Freelancers in these domains can collaborate with clients worldwide, offering a dynamic and creative pathway to earn money online.

6. Digital Marketer

In the realm of freelancing, digital marketing emerges as a lucrative domain, propelled by the burgeoning e-commerce sector and the ascendancy of online advertising.

As a digital marketer, your role revolves around enhancing businesses’ online presence, driving website traffic, fostering customer engagement, and promoting products or services across various online channels. Key services include:

Social Media Management
SEO and SEM Services
PPC Advertising
Email Marketing
Influencer Marketing

In addition to core offerings, you can provide ancillary services such as analytics, reporting, and strategy development, crucial for businesses seeking to gauge the efficacy of their digital marketing endeavors.

Platforms like LinkedIn and AngelList serve as fertile grounds for discovering digital marketing job opportunities and facilitating connections between freelancers and potential clients.

7. Virtual Assistance

Virtual assistance presents a lucrative online opportunity accessible to nearly anyone in Kenya. As a virtual assistant, you’ll remotely provide administrative, organizational, or technical support to individuals or businesses.

Virtual assistants handle a diverse range of tasks, including email management, calendar organization, data entry, and social media management, among others. They serve clients across various industries, offering support in multiple languages.

Successful virtual assistants are self-motivated, possess strong organizational and communication skills, and excel at working independently while effectively managing time.

To excel in this role, familiarity with business software and tools like Google Suite, and Microsoft Office, and project management platforms such as Trello and Asana is essential for streamlined task management and client communication.

The beauty of virtual assistance is that it can be done from anywhere, making it an attractive option for those who value flexibility and work-life balance.

Job seekers can discover virtual assistant opportunities on platforms like FlexJobs, Remote.co, Zirtual, and Fancy Hands. Additionally, creating a professional website or LinkedIn profile can attract potential clients.

Building a network of clients and projects lays the groundwork for a steady income stream and fosters long-term earning potential. Experienced virtual assistants can command monthly earnings exceeding Ksh 20,000.

Freelance Jobs for Beginners and College Students

If you’re a beginner or a student in Kenya looking for freelance opportunities, there are several options you can explore. Here are some online jobs that pay through MPESA and are suitable for beginners:

Freelance Writing: Freelance writing is a great opportunity for students in Kenya to earn extra income. You can work from home or anywhere with an internet connection, making it convenient for students who have other commitments like school.
Web Design: Web design is another top online job for students in Kenya. Clients often pay through MPESA, making it convenient for Kenyan freelancers.
Forex Trading: While it requires some knowledge and risk management, forex trading can be a lucrative freelance option. Research and learn about forex trading strategies before diving in.
Virtual Assistance: Virtual assistants provide administrative support to businesses remotely. Tasks may include scheduling, email management, data entry, and more.
Transcription: Transcribing audio or video content into written form is a popular freelance job. Good listening skills and attention to detail are essential.
Academic Writing: If you excel in academic writing, consider offering your services to students or researchers. You can assist with essays, research papers, and other academic content.
Become A Blogger – Create and monetize your own blog through advertising, sponsorships, and affiliate marketing.
Online Tutoring: If you’re knowledgeable in a specific subject, consider tutoring online. You can help students with their studies and earn money in the process.

And there you have it – the best freelance jobs that can help you make money online in Kenya. These jobs offer flexibility and the potential to earn a good income. Remember to choose a job that aligns with your skills and interests. Building a strong profile to attract clients and networking with potential clients will help you succeed in the freelance world. Good luck with your freelance career! 😊