In Kenya today, your smartphone is more than just a device to scroll TikTok, reply to WhatsApp messages, or take selfies. It can become your most powerful tool to earn money daily, especially when times are tough and jobs are hard to come by. Thousands of young Kenyans are waking up to this reality. They’re turning their phone into a side hustle machine, pulling in Ksh 1,000, Ksh 3,000—even Ksh 5,000 per day, all from the palm of their hands. But the question is—how are they doing it, and can you do the same?
This article reveals real, practical ways to make your phone work for you instead of you working endlessly for it.
Start with What You Already Have
You don’t need to buy a fancy new iPhone or a flagship Samsung device. Whether you’re using an Infinix, Tecno, Oppo, or even an older Android phone—if it can browse the internet, download apps, and take photos, it’s powerful enough to start making you money.
The truth is, the hustle doesn’t need to start big—it just needs to start smart.
1. Offer Simple Online Services
Many Kenyans are making money daily offering services like:
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Writing CVs
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Designing posters using Canva
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Managing Instagram pages for small businesses
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Creating TikTok videos for brands
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Doing voiceovers with just a phone mic
You don’t need a laptop to get started. You just need the right skills and the right audience. The beauty? You can get your first client from a Facebook group or even TikTok comments.
2. Monetize Your Skills Through Freelancing Apps
If you can write, speak well, edit photos, or even type fast—freelance platforms can pay you daily. Start with websites like:
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Fiverr
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Upwork
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Remotasks
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PeoplePerHour
Use your phone to complete small tasks like data entry, image annotation, or even research. You can cash out via PayPal or M-Pesa and get paid in dollars while sitting at home.
The most emotional part? Watching your M-Pesa balance grow because of what your own hands have done. That feeling is unmatched.
3. Sell Digital Products and Make Money While You Sleep
What if you recorded your voice giving Swahili lessons, or created a digital poster template, or even made a short eBook on how to cook perfect chapati?
Upload it on platforms like Gumroad or Payhip. Share the link on your WhatsApp status or TikTok. And every time someone buys, you earn—whether you’re awake or asleep.
This is called passive income, and it’s how side hustles move from hustle to freedom.
4. Resell Products Online Without Owning Stock
Don’t have capital? That’s not an excuse. Find suppliers on Instagram or in your local area, get their product pictures, and post on your social media pages. When someone orders, you tell the supplier and they deliver—you keep the profit.
This is called drop servicing or online reselling, and it’s working wonders in towns like Nairobi, Kisumu, and Nakuru.
You don’t need a shop. You don’t need a warehouse. Just your phone, internet, and consistency. A nice way to turn your phone into a side hustle machine!
5. Teach, Share, and Get Paid Through Content Creation
You might not believe it, but people are making thousands daily from TikTok, YouTube Shorts, and Instagram Reels—all by simply teaching, motivating, or entertaining others.
A 19-year-old in Nairobi makes Ksh 30,000 per week just sharing tips on budgeting and saving. All she uses is her phone and natural light.
People want real, authentic voices—and if you have one, you’re already valuable.
Why Most People Fail (And How You Won’t)
The number one reason many people don’t make money using their phones is this: they give up too soon.
They try one idea, don’t get results in a week, and quit. But that’s not how real side hustles work. You need persistence, creativity, and discipline.
When your peers are out partying on Friday, you’ll be refining your offer. When others scroll aimlessly, you’ll be replying to your first client.
It’s tough. It’s demanding. But it’s so worth it.
Final Words: Your Phone Isn’t Just for Consuming—It’s for Creating
If you’re reading this article, you already have what it takes to make a change. Don’t wait for someone to give you a job. Create your own income.
At TechRahisi, we’ve helped Kenyans build websites, launch apps, and set up systems that earn them money daily. We believe that your smartphone can be your office, your studio, your business hub.
Let’s help you build that side hustle machine.
Call us: +254726572527
Email: developers@techrahisi.co.ke
Visit: techrahisi.co.ke
