13+ Side Hustles for Students in Kenya to Earn Money 💰 in 2024

Looking for the best side hustles for students in Kenya you can start today? Do you want to make extra money while still studying? This guide is the best thing you’ll read today.

Man sitting on couch with laptop on table and money falling from ceiling

With the rising cost of tuition and living expenses, having a side hustle while in college can help you:

  1. Earn extra income to help pay for tuition, textbooks, and other expenses.
  2. Gain practical valuable work experience in various fields and help you build your resume.
  3. Develop important skills like time management, communication, and problem-solving

Whether you want to learn easy ways to make money online as a student or are looking for the best side hustle ideas that’ll help you pay your fees and upkeep and provide a steady income stream, this little list of profitable side hustle business ideas will help you find part-time jobs that can fit around your uni schedule. It’s by no means an exhaustive list, and I encourage you to add your own idea to the bottom if it’s not on here.

The beauty of these examples of student side hustle ideas is that many don’t require a huge initial investment or even necessarily a highly specialized skill set to start.

Many of these are easy, legitimate side hustles that can be done online and from home. Others might require you to leave the house. And certainly, not all qualify as “business ideas.”

But, there are enough ideas below to ensure there is at least one that fits your situation and has the potential to earn you extra cash in your spare time.

What are the best side hustles for students in Kenya?

If you’re a student in Kenya looking to earn some extra income, here are some of the easiest and most profitable side hustles you can explore without compromising your study time:

  1. Content Writing and Blogging
  2. Graphic Design and Multimedia
  3. Programming and Web Development
  4. Retail and Sales Assistant jobs
  5. Online Tutoring
  6. Hospitality and Event Staffing part-time jobs
  7. Agribusiness Initiatives
  8. Campus-Based Startups
  9. Digital Marketing and Social Media Management
  10. Forex Trading
  11. Stock Market Investments
  12. Academic research and writing
  13. Selling crafts and handmade goods
  14. Explore AI-related side hustles

These side hustles offer flexibility and the potential to earn extra money while balancing academic commitments. Remember, the best side hustle depends on your skills and interests. Choose something that aligns with your abilities and schedule.

Let’s look at these best side jobs for students in Kenya in detail.

Online Freelancing Opportunities 💻

A freelancer student with a laptop, smiling while typing.
Start freelancing in Kenya today and tap into a diverse market with growing demand for skilled professionals.

There are around 1.56 billion freelancers worldwide, with the most popular freelancing skill being web design, accounting for 36% of freelancers.

Undeniably, one of the best things about the Internet is the ability to work from anywhere. And, if you have a computer and an internet connection, you can take advantage of this and make money online by offering your skills as a freelancer. Here are some of the most popular online side hustles in Kenya for students:

Content Writing and Blogging

Content writing and blogging are easy and profitable side hustles for university students in Kenya who enjoy writing and have strong communication skills. You can write articles, blog posts, web copy, and other types of content for clients all over the world.

Starting a blog is a great way to share your knowledge, passion, and experiences with a wider audience. As your platform grows, you can monetize your blog through ads, affiliate marketing, or sponsored content.

Content writing is a flexible side hustle that allows you to work from anywhere and choose your projects. By offering your writing services on platforms like Freelancer, Upwork, or Fiverr, you can find various clients and build a portfolio showcasing your skills. You can also create a profile on content writing websites like iWriter, Textbroker, or HireWriters. 

An illustration of a person sitting at a desk with a laptop

Graphic Design and Multimedia

If you have a talent for graphic design or multimedia, you can make money online by creating logos, banners, social media posts, and other types of visual content for clients.

To get started, you can sign up for freelancing platforms like 99designs, DesignCrowd, or Freelancer. You can also create a profile on graphic design websites like Canva, Crello, or PicMonkey.

Programming and Web Development

If you have programming or web development skills, you can make money online as a student by creating websites, web applications, and other types of software for clients.

To get started, you can sign up for freelancing platforms like Upwork, Freelancer, or Toptal. You can also create a profile on programming websites like GitHub, Stack Overflow, or CodePen.

Keep in mind that freelancing requires hard work, dedication, and discipline. You will need to build a portfolio, market your services, and deliver high-quality work to your clients. But with the right skills and attitude, you can make a good income online as a freelancer.

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Local Part-Time Jobs for Campus Students in Kenya

If you prefer to work offline, there are many part-time jobs for students in Kenya that allow you to earn a side income while studying. Here are some popular options to consider:

Retail and Sales Assistant Student Side Hustles

Retail and sales assistant jobs are ideal in-person side hustles for students with good communication and customer service skills. You can work in a variety of settings, such as supermarkets, clothing stores, and electronics shops.

As a sales assistant, you will be responsible for helping customers find what they need, answering their questions, and processing transactions.

This is a great way to gain experience in sales and marketing, and you can earn a decent hourly wage plus commission in some cases.

Tutoring and Educational Support

University student online tutoring high school student
Tutoring is a great online part-time job for university students.

Tutoring is a great side hustle for college students who excel in their academic subjects. By offering tutoring services, online or in-person, you can help fellow students improve their academic performance in a specific subject or skill.

You can also work as a teaching assistant or mentor in a local school or community center.

This is a great way to share your knowledge and skills while earning money at the same time. You can set your hourly rate and schedule, and you’ll gain valuable teaching experience that can help you in your future career.

Hospitality and Event Staffing side jobs for college students

If you enjoy working in a fast-paced environment, hospitality and event staffing jobs may be a good fit for you. You can work as a waiter, bartender, or event coordinator at weddings, conferences, and other events.

These jobs require good communication and organizational skills, and you’ll need to be able to work well under pressure. However, you can earn a good hourly wage plus tips, and you’ll gain valuable experience in the hospitality and events industry.

Entrepreneurial Ventures for Students

A man in a suit holding a large stack of money surrounded by glowing AI icons and symbols

As a university student in Kenya, there are various entrepreneurial ventures that you can take up to earn extra income. Here are some of the best entrepreneurial ventures for students in Kenya.

Agribusiness Initiatives

Agriculture is a lucrative side hustle that students can take up to earn extra income.

One way to do this is by starting a vegetable garden. This can be done in your backyard or a community garden. You can grow vegetables such as kale, spinach, and tomatoes, which are in high demand in the market.

Another agribusiness initiative that students can take up is poultry farming. You can start by rearing chickens for eggs or meat. This can be done in your backyard or a rented space. You can sell the eggs or meat to your fellow students or the local market.

Campus-Based Startup

Starting a business on campus is another entrepreneurial venture that students can take up to earn extra income.

One way to do this is by providing services such as laundry or cleaning services to fellow students.

You can also start a small retail business selling items such as snacks, drinks, and stationery.

Another campus-based startup that students can take up is event planning. You can organize events such as parties and concerts on campus and charge admission fees. You can also offer your services to other schools and organizations in the community.

Offer Digital Marketing and Social Media Management Services

Digital marketing and social media management can be a profitable online side hustle for college students in Kenya with a knack for social media. Many businesses are looking for help promoting their products and services online, and they’re willing to pay for it.

To get started, you’ll need to have a good understanding of social media platforms like Facebook, Twitter, and Instagram. You’ll also need to know how to create engaging content that will resonate with your client’s target audience.

Once you have these skills, you can start reaching out to businesses in your area and offering your services. You can also create a website or social media page to showcase your work and attract potential clients.

Here are some services you can offer as a digital marketer and social media manager or strategist to make a side income:

  • Social media account setup and management
  • Content creation and curation
  • Social media advertising campaigns
  • Email marketing campaigns
  • Search engine optimization (SEO)

As a digital marketer and social media manager, you can charge your clients hourly rates or flat fees for your services. Make sure to do your research and set fair prices that reflect your experience and expertise.

Investing and Trading

As a college student, investing and trading can be a great way to earn extra money. However, it is important to note that investing and trading can be risky, and it is important to do your research and understand the market before investing any money.

Forex Trading 💹

Forex trading involves buying and selling different currencies in the foreign exchange market. This can be done through a broker or online trading platform. Forex trading can be lucrative, but it is important to be aware of the risks involved. It is recommended to start with a demo account and practice before investing any real money.

Stock Market Investments

Investing in the stock market can be a great passive income side hustle. The stock market involves buying and selling shares of publicly traded companies.

You can invest in stocks through a broker or online trading platform. It is recommended to start with small investments and diversify your portfolio to minimize risk.

Engage in Academic Research and Writing

One of the most popular online side hustles for campus students in Kenya is academic research and writing. As a student, you have a wealth of knowledge in various subjects that you can use to help others.

Many students who are struggling with their academic work are willing to pay for help from someone who has already gone through the same process successfully.

To get started, you can advertise your services on social media or through word of mouth. You can offer to help with term papers, essays, and even final exams. You can charge per page or project, depending on what works best for you.

When doing academic writing jobs, it’s important to maintain a high level of quality and professionalism. Make sure that you are well-versed in the subject matter and that you can deliver work that meets the client’s expectations. You should also be able to work within tight deadlines, as many students are looking for help at the last minute.

Sell Crafts and Handmade Goods

If you have a talent for creating handmade goods, you can turn it into a profitable side hustle. There is a high demand for unique and locally made crafts in Kenya and globally, and you can take advantage of this by creating and selling your handmade products.

One popular option is to make jewelry. You can create necklaces, bracelets, and earrings using beads, wire, and other materials. You can sell your jewelry online on platforms like Etsy, Jumia, Kilimall, and Masoko or at local markets and events.

Another option is to create home decor items. You can make items like picture frames, wall hangings, and decorative pillows. You can sell your products at local markets, online, or through social media platforms like Facebook and Instagram.

If you are skilled in sewing, you can create and sell clothing items like dresses, skirts, and shirts. You can also offer tailoring services to customers who need alterations or repairs to their clothing.

To get started with your crafts and handmade goods side hustle, you will need to invest in some basic materials and tools. You can start small and gradually build up your inventory as you gain more customers and experience.

Explore AI Side Hustles for Students

Unlocking Financial Success with AI

Ever heard of artificial intelligence (AI)? That super-smart tech that’s taking over the world? Well, guess what? It’s got pockets full of cash, and it’s just waiting to share some with you! AI jobs are becoming increasingly popular as many businesses seek AI-driven solutions to improve efficiency and effectiveness.

But how can you use AI to find a side hustle and make money online as a college student?

Here are some examples of ways to make money using AI as a student in Kenya:

Freelance writing: Offer your writing services to businesses or individuals who need content for their websites, blogs, or social media platforms. You can also create and sell AI-generated essays for students, and eBooks. Utilize generative AI programs like ChatGPT, copy.ai, Bard, or Claude to help you research topics, generate ideas, and draft content. Just make sure to edit and refine it to meet the client’s needs.

Content creation: You can create your content, such as videos, podcasts, or blogs, using AI tools to help you with research, editing, and production. This can be a great way to build a following and monetize your content through advertising, sponsorships, or affiliate marketing.

Tutoring and teaching: Once you’ve enough expertise in AI, you can offer tutoring or teaching services in subjects where AI tools can assist you, such as math, science, or programming. You can use AI tools to help you create lesson plans, answer student questions, explain concepts, and provide feedback on assignments.

Sell AI courses, articles, or whitepapers and membership sites to those seeking to learn and improve their AI skills. You can teach online or in person and sell your courses on platforms like Udemy, Coursera, and Teachable.

AI Products Development: If you have a background in programming or computer science, you can develop your own AI-powered products, such as mobile apps, web applications, or software tools, or improve existing ones.

You can also create and sell AI-powered chatbots, as most websites and businesses want to automate customer support.

These AI products can be sold or used to generate income through advertising or in-app purchases.

Prompt Engineering: Prompt engineering is the process of developing and optimizing AI-generated text prompts to ensure their accuracy and relevance across various applications.

AI prompt marketplaces like ChatX, PromptBase, and Prompt Attack have emerged, enabling individuals to buy and sell AI prompts due to the varying results produced by AI tools like ChatGPT, DeepAI, and Midjourney. This presents a lucrative opportunity for college students to sell AI prompts and earn money while still in school.

These AI side hustle ideas offer flexibility, remote work opportunities, and the potential to earn extra money while studying.

How to Balance A Side Hustle With College

Balancing school and side hustles can be challenging, but it is possible with the right approach. Here are some tips for achieving this balance:

  1. Effective Time Management: Allocate your time efficiently between your studies and your side hustle. Plan your week ahead to ensure that you have dedicated time for both responsibilities.
  2. Flexible Work Opportunities: Look for side hustles that offer flexibility, such as online freelancing, which can be done outside of traditional working hours.
  3. Practical Experience: Consider side hustles that provide valuable skills and experience relevant to your field of study. This can help you gain practical knowledge while earning extra income.
  4. Avoid Distractions: Be mindful not to let your side hustle distract you from your academic goals. It’s important to prioritize your studies and not sacrifice your long-term educational objectives for short-term economic gains.
  5. Online Earning Opportunities: Explore online earning websites, freelancing, and affiliate programs as potential side hustles, as they offer the flexibility to work from anywhere and at any time.

By following these tips, you can strike a balance between your academic pursuits and your side hustles, allowing you to gain valuable experience and earn extra income while pursuing your education.

Click here to learn how to balance a full-time job with school or a side hustle

FAQs on Side Hustles for University Students in Kenya

Here are some FAQs about side hustles for university students in Kenya.

What are the most profitable online side hustles for students in Kenya?

There are several profitable online side hustles that students in Kenya can do to earn extra income. Some of the most popular ones include freelance writing, data entry jobs, paid surveys, affiliate marketing, and virtual assistance. These side hustles require minimal investment and can be done from the comfort of your home. You can find these opportunities on various online platforms, including Upwork, Fiverr, and Freelancer.

How can students in Kenya utilize Jumia to earn extra income?

Jumia is an online marketplace that allows you to sell products to customers across Kenya. As a student, you can utilize Jumia to earn extra income by selling products that are in high demand, such as electronics, fashion items, and beauty products. You can also take advantage of Jumia’s affiliate program, which allows you to earn commissions by promoting Jumia’s products on your social media platforms or blog.

What are some creative side hustles for students in Nairobi?

Nairobi is a bustling city with plenty of creative side hustles that students can do to earn extra income. Some of these include starting a food delivery service, offering pet-sitting services, selling smokies or chapati, starting a laundry service, or becoming a personal shopper. You can also monetize your tech skills by offering tutoring services, graphic design services, or website development services.

Which side hustles can Kenyan students do from home without any initial investment?

There are several side hustles that Kenyan students can do from home without any initial investment. These include freelance writing, data entry jobs, paid surveys, affiliate marketing, and virtual assistance. You can also start a blog or YouTube channel and monetize your content through advertising, sponsorships, and affiliate marketing.

Sam is an experienced freelance writer, blogger, trainer, and internet marketer. His passion lies in helping people like you start a business or side hustle and earn extra money, offline and online. You can also follow him on Facebook and Twitter

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