Affiliate Marketing in Kenya: Top Programs & How to Get Started

Let’s be real Kenya’s digital scene is buzzing, and affiliate marketing is no longer just some side hustle for techies. Whether you’re a campus student, a vlogger, a blogger, or just someone with a knack for convincing people online, there’s real money to be made without having to sell your own products. This guide breaks down the ABCs of affiliate marketing in Kenya and walks you through the best-paying programs to try in 2025.So, what’s affiliate marketing, anyway? Think of it as a referral gig you share a product link, someone buys through it, and boom, you earn a cut. With internet coverage expanding (over 40% and counting, according to the Communications Authority of Kenya), more brands are jumping on board and partnering with local content creators like you and me.

Top Affiliate Programs in Kenya [2025 Snapshot]

Affiliate Program	Commission Rate	Cookie Duration	Payment Method
Domain Racer	30–70%	Not stated	Bank Transfer
Dancom Tours & Travel	6%	60 days	Payoneer, Wire
Dr. Rashel	15%	30 days	Bank, EasyPaisa
Smartworld	15%	7 days	Bank
HostPinnacle	Ksh 500–5,000	Instant	Mpesa
KLM Kenya	1–1.5%	30 days	Bank Transfer
Sage	7% + £5 per trial	30 days	Bank Transfer
Collanet Africa	20%	30 days	Mpesa
Jumia	9%	7 days	Bank Transfer
Travelstart	Ksh 400–1,200	30 days	Bank Transfer

So, What Exactly Is Affiliate Marketing?

At its core, affiliate marketing is about promoting someone else’s product and getting paid when people buy through your custom link. Here’s the play-by-play:

Pick an affiliate program that fits your niche.
You’ll get a unique link tied to your account.
Share it through content think blogs, TikToks, WhatsApp groups, or YouTube.
If someone clicks and makes a purchase, you earn a commission. Simple as that.

Getting paid isn’t a hassle either most programs offer Mpesa, PayPal, direct bank transfer, or even EasyPaisa for that extra convenience.

Why Kenyans Are Jumping Into Affiliate Marketing

It’s Affordable to Start: No warehouse, no stock, no stress. Just a smartphone or laptop and you’re good to go.
Local Options Exist: More Kenyan businesses are offering affiliate deals—finally!
You Can Scale It: Start with one platform, grow into many. Some folks even go full-time with it.

Top Affiliate Programs in Kenya (Our Picks)

1. Domain Racer – Big Payouts for Tech Lovers

If you’re into web hosting or blogging, this one’s a gem. With commissions ranging from 30% to a whopping 70%, it’s perfect for tech creators who review hosting platforms.

2. Dancom Tours & Travel – Long Cookie Life

This one’s gold for travel influencers. You get a 60-day cookie duration, which means you still get paid even if your referral buys two months later!

3. Smartworld – Great for Gadget Fans

Tech reviewers, this one’s for you. Earn up to 15% by recommending phones, laptops, TVs—you name it.

4. Collanet Africa – Education Focused

If you’re in the tutoring or student space, this is a great match. With a 20% commission and Mpesa payments, it’s convenient and rewarding.

5. HostPinnacle – For Local Blogging Ninjas

Targeted at the Kenyan market, HostPinnacle pays between Ksh 500 and 5,000 per referral. Great for bloggers promoting web services to startups or students.

Want to Win at Affiliate Marketing in Kenya? Here’s How

Find Your Niche: Tech, education, beauty—whatever you vibe with, go for it.
Create Content: You don’t need fancy gear. Even a TikTok account can do wonders.
Be Honest: Let people know you’re using affiliate links—it builds trust.
Provide Value: Don’t just sell; help people solve problems.
Use Analytics: Check what’s working and double down on it.

Affiliate Marketing in Kenya – Frequently Asked Questions

What’s the easiest way to kick off affiliate marketing in Kenya?

Start with what you already know. Choose a niche, post helpful content, and sign up with beginner-friendly programs like Jumia or HostPinnacle.

Do I absolutely need a website?

Not at all. A website is great, sure, but you can start with Instagram, WhatsApp, or even Twitter.

How do I get my money?

Depending on the program, you could get paid via Mpesa, bank transfer, PayPal, or Payoneer.

Is affiliate marketing legit in Kenya?

Absolutely. It’s legal, ethical, and growing fast. Just make sure to disclose your affiliate links to stay transparent.

Can students get in on this?

Definitely! Students can use free platforms like YouTube or social media to build their audience and earn passively.

Wrapping It Up

Affiliate marketing in Kenya isn’t just a buzzword anymore—it’s a legit way to earn from your content, audience, or even just your passion. With dozens of local and global programs available, there’s truly something for everyone—from beauty lovers to tech geeks.

Thinking of taking it a step further? Check out our detailed guide on how to start a blog in Kenya. It could be the launchpad for your affiliate marketing empire.