In Kenya today, the cost of living is rising, and it is hard for individuals to survive on a single source of income. Inflation is making it difficult for people to afford necessities. As of 2025, inflation stands at around 3.5 percent, and the prices of essential goods like maize flour, fuel, and rent continue to rise. The country’s unemployment rate is on the rise, leaving many job seekers struggling to find stable employment. Even those with full-time jobs often earn wages that barely cover their living expenses.

For the average Kenyan, relying on a single salary is no longer enough. Kenyans earning less than Sh50,000 monthly comprise 74 percent of total wage earners! It is insufficient to meet their financial needs. Job security is also becoming a concern, with companies reducing their workforce due to economic downturns, automation, and restructuring. Faced with these realities, Kenyans should be turning to side hustles.

Having more than one source of income is no longer a luxury, but a necessity. A side hustle not only provides an extra financial cushion but also opens doors to financial independence. The rise of the digital economy, e-commerce, and alternative investment opportunities has made it easier for Kenyans to start and grow additional income streams. Where are the opportunities for side hustles?

The digital economy, e-commerce, and alternative investments have opened up countless opportunities for Kenyans to generate additional income and achieve financial security. With increasing internet penetration, mobile money services, and accessible online platforms, starting a side hustle or growing an income stream has never been easier.

Freelancing is one of the easiest ways to dive into the digital economy, and it doesn’t discriminate by age or gender just skill! If you have a talent, whether it’s consultancy, writing, graphic design, programming, or virtual assistance, you can offer your services on platforms like Upwork, Fiverr, and PeoplePerHour. Online tutoring and coaching have also become quite popular, giving teachers, trainers, and professionals a chance to share their expertise through platforms like Udemy, Teachable, or even WhatsApp groups. And let’s not forget about content creation! No matter your field, showcasing your skills during your free time can lead to unexpected opportunities. If you love making videos, writing blogs, or connecting with audiences on social media, you can turn your passion into profit through YouTube, TikTok, and affiliate marketing.

E-commerce presents another excellent avenue for financial growth. Imagine having a local online store within your county. Marketplaces like Jumia, Kilimall, and Masoko have succeeded in Africa, so why not try one in your country? For those looking to minimise risk, drop shipping is a successful model that eliminates the need to hold inventory; entrepreneurs partner with suppliers who ship directly to customers.

When it comes to growing your finances, there’s more to explore beyond just digital businesses. Think of it as letting your money do the heavy lifting for you. Saccos and investment groups are a fantastic way to combine resources and dive into profitable ventures like real estate and agribusiness. If you’re interested in stocks and bonds, the Nairobi Securities Exchange is a great place to start, while government bonds offer a reliable and steady option for those looking for long-term growth. Emerging opportunities in cryptocurrency and forex trading have also gained traction, though they require careful research and strategy. For those seeking a more structured investment, peer-to-peer lending platforms, such as Pezesha, allow individuals to lend money to small businesses and earn interest.

You can turn your skills into profitable businesses. Real estate brokerage, event planning, and photography are all growing industries that do not necessarily require large capital investments.

The economic reality in Kenya demands that individuals diversify their income sources. A single job is no longer enough to sustain a comfortable lifestyle. By embracing freelancing, social commerce, and passive investments, Kenyans can achieve financial security and independence.

— The writer is an Innovations Evangelist and a PhD Candidate; machariamuhoho@gmail.com