Best Side Hustles to Start in Kenya in 2025

Side Hustles Ideas to Start in Kenya in 2025 Based on Your Budget (Ksh 10K to 200K)

If you want to become financially stable, having multiple income streams is a must. Relying solely on your salary won’t make you wealthy; you’ll need to put in some extra effort.

From my own experience, there are plenty side hustles in Kenya that will make you rich, therefore, consider starting one.

The profits you make from a side hustle can give you the ability to save more and invest in investments that can really pay off in the long run, for instance, government bonds.

Salaries alone are usually not enough for many people, especially during tough economic times when taxes rise, like they have under President William Ruto’s leadership.

When the idea of starting a side hustle comes to mind, the first question most people ask is: 

Which hustle should I start?

The good news is, there are plenty of options. But starting a side hustle while managing a full-time job might seem overwhelming. It doesn’t have to be, though. The catch is, you have to come up with a good side hustle idea and create a good business plan. 

Diversifying your income isn’t just about making more money; it’s about building financial security and freedom. The beauty of side hustles is that they come in many forms, from small gigs to projects that could eventually grow into full-fledged businesses. A good example is the case of Shiquo wa Hiiistyle. She started by selling lady clothes online, currently, she has several stores in Nairobi CBD and an e-commerce website. 

Before diving into a side hustle, there are two important questions you need to answer:

1. How much time can you realistically commit each week?
2. How much capital are you willing to invest?

These questions will help you choose the hustle that fits your goals and lifestyle.

Now, imagine you’ve saved up some money and want to make it work for you. Let’s explore the best side hustle ideas in Kenya based on how much you’re willing to invest.

Best Side Hustles to Start with Ksh 10,000

There is so much that you can do with Ksh 10,000. I started my mitumba side hustle that has grown into a big business with only 2000 shillings. This means that if you have Ksh. 10k, there is so much that you can do to make extra money and increase your income pool. 

1. Starting a Second-Hand Clothes Business (Mitumba)

One thing that I like about selling second hand clothes is that there is always a ready market for it. Also, anyone can start, if you only have 1000 shillings with you, its easy to start mitumba business and scale into a big business. I you are doing well financially, its also a good niche to invest in. 

Since the early 2000, mitumba business has been a to go business for many business people in Kenya die to its low entry barrier and quick returns. 

If you ever buy a second hand thing, just know that the seller either bagged 100% profit meaning he or she bought it at half price or 75% profit minimum. 

With Ksh 10,000, you can buy a small bale of second-hand clothes or shoes, preferably ladies shoes since they are cheaper compared to men. 

Find someone, preferably someone who is young and just done with form 4 or anyone who is really thirsting to have a job. Pay them on commission, if they sell a piece, they take 30% while you take 70%. 

There are many people who are dying to find a job, if you have nice second hand pieces, it wont be a problem finding someone to sell for you while you continue with your job. 

On the other hand, you can also start selling them at your workplace, to friends, or through social media. Instagram and Facebook marketplaces are great places to showcase your collection. If you want to learn more on how to start a mitumba business you can read how I started Senje Thrift Wear. 

2. Dropshipping

My sister has always been addicted to importing things online through platforms such as Ali Express and Amazon.

Its her who made me start importing products instead of buying them here in Kenya. Its way much cheaper. One bottle of Roniki Gel is bought at Ksh. 500 or 450 ukiangukia at Dubois. If you decide to import the same product, you will get it at around Ksh. 175. Now, with 1000 shillings you can get 13 good gel products. If you sell these products at 400 shillings each you will make Ksh. 5200, that is 4200 profit. Can you imagine?

That process of getting goods from a cheaper source and selling it directly in retail is whats called drop shipping. Its a great idea since it does not require much of your time. This is where it gets better, you can open a jumia and Jiji account which are all free to open by the way. Place your products there are wait for potential buyers to place their bids. 

3. Freelancing

If you have a skill, such as writing e.g online academic writing or article writing, graphic design, or digital marketing, you can use Ksh 10,000 to buy internet bundles, set up a basic website, or invest in an online course to improve your skills. Platforms like Upwork and Fiverr are excellent for finding clients.

Best Side Hustles to Start with Ksh 50,000

Ksh 50,000 may not seem like a fortune, but in the world of side hustles, it’s a powerful starting point. This amount gives you enough capital to dive into ventures that not only make your wallet happy but also have room for growth. Let’s explore three brilliant options: mobile phone repair, a photography business, and running a cereal shop.

1. Mobile Phone Repair

Think about it—almost everyone owns a smartphone, and when they break, people are desperate to get them fixed. That’s where you come in.

With Ksh 50,000, you can:

• Rent a small shop in a busy area. Foot traffic = customers.
• Buy essential tools like screwdrivers, pliers, and multimeters.
• Invest in training. Learn repair skills online or take a short course—you’ll thank yourself later.

Why this hustle works:
Repairs can rake in Ksh 5,000 per day in a good location. Plus, happy customers spread the word, and you’ll quickly build a reputation as the go-to tech wizard. Quality matters, though, so buy good parts to keep clients coming back.

2. Photography Business

Do you have a creative eye? photography business in Kenya is a fantastic way to turn your passion into profits.

Here’s how to make it work:

• Use most of your budget to buy a second-hand camera and lens. Affordable brands can still deliver excellent results.
• Focus on a niche—portraits, events, or product photography are all solid options.
• Forget the studio for now; go mobile. Meet clients where they are, saving costs and making your services convenient.
• Leverage social media to market your work. Instagram and Facebook are visual platforms perfect for photographers. Create a portfolio to showcase your skills and attract clients.

Why this hustle works:
Photography is versatile, and with enough creativity, you can scale into high-paying gigs like weddings or commercial shoots. Networking and word-of-mouth will help your business thrive.

3. Cereal Shop

Selling cereals like beans, maize, rice, and green grams might not sound flashy, but it’s a goldmine. People need to eat, no matter the economy.

What you need:

• Rent a small space in a high-traffic area, like near a market or residential estate.
• Stock up on affordable cereals that have a steady demand. Start small, and expand with your profits.

Why this hustle works:
Cereals are staples, so demand is always there. With low skills required and a ready market, this is one of the safest ways to grow your money steadily.

Best Side Hustles to Start with Ksh 100,000

Ksh 100,000 is a solid starting point for some side hustles that offer serious potential for returns. With this amount, you’re not just dipping your toes in the entrepreneurial waters—you’re wading in waist-deep. Let’s break down two fantastic options: selling electronics and accessories, and setting up an Airbnb.

1. Selling Electronics and Accessories

If there’s one thing you can count on, it’s that people will always need gadgets and their endless supply of accessories. From phone chargers to earphones and screen protectors, electronics are hot sellers because they’re essentials for modern living.

Here’s how to make this hustle work:

• Step 1: Stock Up Smartly
  Use Ksh 60,000 to buy popular electronics and accessories in bulk. Visit places like Luthuli Avenue in Nairobi, which is famous for affordable wholesale electronics. Focus on high-demand items like phone cases, power banks, USB cables, and smartwatches.

• Step 2: Leverage Online Marketplaces
  Skip renting a shop (it’s pricey) and sell online instead. Platforms like Jiji, Pigiame, and social media (Instagram and Facebook Marketplace) are perfect for reaching customers without overhead costs. Offer delivery options to make buying convenient.

• Step 3: Stand Out with Quality and Service
  The market is competitive, so differentiate yourself by selling high-quality items and providing exceptional service. Be honest about your products—nothing kills a business faster than bad reviews.

• Step 4: Market Aggressively
  Use the remaining Ksh 40,000 for online ads and social media promotions. For example, run a campaign targeting people in your area who are looking for affordable gadgets.

Why this works:
With tech usage increasing, demand for electronics and accessories never dries up. Your side hustle could grow into a full-fledged business if you reinvest your profits wisely.

2. Setting Up an Airbnb

The travel and staycation culture in Kenya has exploded in recent years, and Airbnb is the perfect way to cash in. Whether you’re near a tourist hotspot or simply own a cozy apartment in a bustling city like Nairobi, Kisumu, Nakuru or even Eldoret, this side hustle is a winner.

Here’s how to make it happen:

• Step 1: Secure the Property
  If you already own a home or apartment, congratulations—you’re halfway there. If not, use your Ksh 100,000 to lease a small but well-located property. Look for areas close to tourist attractions, universities, or business hubs.

• Step 2: Furnish on a Budget
  Allocate about Ksh 60,000 to furnish the space. Focus on creating a welcoming, cozy environment with basic necessities like a bed, bedding, small appliances, and Wi-Fi. Think second-hand or thrift furniture to cut costs while still achieving a stylish look.

• Step 3: List Your Space on Airbnb
  Set up a killer profile with great photos and an enticing description. Highlight the best features of the property—proximity to landmarks, cleanliness, and amenities like free parking or a balcony with a view.

• Step 4: Provide Top-Notch Hospitality
  Offer a seamless check-in process, respond promptly to guest inquiries, and maintain the property well. The better your reviews, the more bookings you’ll get.

Why this works:
With Kenya’s vibrant travel scene, Airbnbs are in high demand. Plus, this hustle doesn’t require your daily attention—you can manage it remotely, making it an excellent passive income stream.

Best Side Hustles to Start with Ksh 200,000

Ah, Ksh 200,000 — a sweet spot of capital that opens the door to ventures with serious earning potential. While it's not enough to buy beachfront property in Diani or a fleet of matatus, it’s enough to build something meaningful, scalable, and downright lucrative. Let’s talk about two of my favorite options for this budget: starting a tour company and setting up a beauty parlour.

1. Start a Tour Company

If Kenya’s jaw-dropping landscapes, wildlife, and culture don’t make your entrepreneurial heart race, I don’t know what will. The tourism industry here is a goldmine waiting for savvy hustlers with a bit of charm and organizational skills. With Ksh 200,000, you can tap into this opportunity and carve out a slice of the pie for yourself.

Here’s how you can do it:

• Step 1: Research & Niches
  Forget the generic "safari tours" everyone else is doing. Instead, specialize. Think "adventure tours for young couples," "budget wildlife experiences," or "hidden gems for solo travelers." Niche markets mean less competition and more room to shine.

• Step 2: Invest Wisely
  Use part of your budget to get the basics: a decent website, a couple of custom-branded t-shirts, and perhaps some initial advertising. Then, partner with existing tour guides, car hire services, and lodges. You don’t need your own fleet of Land Cruisers right away—collaboration is key.

• Step 3: Digital Domination
  Put your money into digital marketing. Tourists aren’t walking the streets looking for signs anymore—they’re Googling and scrolling Instagram. Target ads for "Kenya tours" and wow them with beautiful photos and engaging storytelling. If your name pops up enough times, bookings will follow.

Why this works:
Tourism in Kenya is evergreen. Whether it’s backpackers, honeymooners, or bird watchers, there’s always someone looking for an unforgettable experience. Your hustle isn’t just about money—it’s about showcasing what makes Kenya magical.

2. Start a Beauty Parlour

The beauty industry is like a baobab tree: deeply rooted and impossible to topple. People, especially ladies love looking good and are willing to spend generously on it. A beauty parlour is one of those rare businesses that thrive everywhere, from Nairobi’s bustling streets to smaller towns across the country.

Here’s how you can make it happen:

• Step 1: Location, Location, Location
  Use Ksh 50,000 to secure a small but strategic spot. Look for areas with high foot traffic—think shopping centers, market hubs, or near residential estates. A good location ensures you’ll never run out of potential customers.

• Step 2: Equipment & Products
  Allocate about Ksh 100,000 to set up the essentials: salon chairs, mirrors, dryers, and beauty supplies. Don’t skimp on quality—you want equipment that lasts and products that leave clients glowing. Think shampoos, styling gels, and nail polish from trusted brands.

• Step 3: Skilled Hands Make the Difference
  Either hire an experienced beautician or invest in short training courses for you (and any friends who might want in). Customers stay loyal to professionals who make them feel like royalty.

• Step 4: Build a Buzz
  Use the remaining budget to create buzz. Social media is your ally here—Instagram, TikTok, and Facebook will be your marketing dream team. Offer discounts for first-time clients, host giveaways, or partner with influencers to showcase your services.

Why this works:
Everyone loves convenience, and nothing screams convenience like a nearby, affordable beauty parlour. As long as people care about their appearance (spoiler: they always will), your parlour will rake in the cash.

Final Thoughts

Choosing the right side hustle depends on your interests, available time, and the amount of capital you’re willing to invest. Remember, starting small is okay — every big business once started as a side hustle. Be consistent, patient, and always look for ways to improve.

Most importantly, manage your expectations. Side hustles don’t always bring in profits immediately. It takes time to build a business that generates consistent income. But with determination, the sky is the limit.