Whether you’re a student in Kisii, a new mum in Eldoret, or simply fed up with Nairobi’s daily jam, there’s a whole world of remote jobs you can do from your phone or laptop and yes, most of them pay directly through M-Pesa.
Why M-Pesa Is a Game-Changer for Online Work in Kenya
Let’s be real, traditional banking can be slow, expensive, and downright frustrating. M-Pesa changed all that. With just a few taps on your phone, you can receive cash from anywhere, anytime. To put it into perspective, Kenyans moved over KSh 30 trillion through M-Pesa in just the past year. That’s no small feat!
For freelancers and hustlers working online, that kind of convenience is priceless. No more waiting days for bank transfers, just fast, secure payments straight to your phone.
| Job Type | Skills Needed | Typical Earnings (KSh) | Payment Platform |
|---|---|---|---|
| Freelance Writing | Writing, research, grammar | 500–5,000/article | Upwork, iWriter, M-Pesa |
| Data Entry | Typing, accuracy | 5,000–15,000/month | Clickworker, ApexListings |
| Online Tutoring | Subject knowledge, communication | 500–3,000/hour | Preply, TeacherOn |
| Transcription | Listening, typing speed | 10,000–30,000/month | Rev, TranscribeMe |
| Affiliate Marketing | Marketing, content creation | 1,000–50,000+/month | Jumia KOL, Amazon (via converters) |
Source: Communications Authority of Kenya, 2025 ICT Statistics
10 Online Jobs That Pay via M-Pesa in Kenya
1. Freelance Writing
If you’ve got a knack for words and enjoy storytelling, writing online could be your golden ticket. You can write blogs, reviews, product descriptions, you name it. Sites like Upwork and iWriter even support direct or converted payments via M-Pesa.
- Ideal for: University students, creative writers, stay-at-home parents
- Tip: Start small, build a portfolio, and don’t shy away from cold-pitching local blogs.
2. Data Entry
Data entry is as straightforward as it sounds. You’ll be handling things like entering names into spreadsheets or updating records. It might not be glamorous, but it’s great for newbies.
- Great for: Anyone with basic computer skills
- Pro tip: Use free tools like Grammarly to reduce errors and boost accuracy.
3. Online Tutoring
Do you ace math, Swahili, or chemistry? Why not teach it online? Sites like Preply let you set your own rates and schedule, and many Kenyan tutors now get paid through local payment options including M-Pesa.
- Best for: University students, retired teachers, or anyone with subject expertise
- Tip: Offer a discounted first class to earn reviews and build trust fast.
4. Transcription
This one’s for the detail freaks out there. You listen to audio, maybe an interview, podcast, or a YouTube video and type it out word for word. While platforms like Rev and TranscribeMe pay via PayPal, tools like Payoneer and Pesapal can help bridge the gap to M-Pesa.
5. Affiliate Marketing
Think of this as the art of recommending stuff online and getting paid for it. Share product links on your blog, TikTok, or Instagram. If someone buys, you get a cut. Platforms like Jumia KOL and Amazon Associates (with a little help from Payoneer) make it work with M-Pesa too.
- Top earners: Bloggers, TikTokers, and YouTubers with focused audiences
- Pro tip: Pick a niche you love, it’s easier to sell what you believe in.
Check this: Affiliate Marketing in Kenya
6. Virtual Assistant
If multitasking is your superpower, this one’s for you. You could be answering emails, updating schedules, or managing social media pages for busy business owners. Kenyan platforms like Vyemma make M-Pesa payments a breeze.
7. Social Media Manager
If you’re always on Instagram, Facebook, or X (Twitter), why not make money from it? Many small businesses need help managing their online presence and they’ll gladly pay via M-Pesa for your services.
- Tip: Learn Canva, CapCut, or Buffer to stand out from the crowd.
8. Online Surveys
While you won’t get rich filling out surveys, they’re a quick and simple way to earn some lunch money. Platforms like GeoPoll and Triaba pay instantly via M-Pesa, no strings attached. Just steer clear of scams asking for fees upfront.
9. Web Design & Development
Know your way around WordPress or Figma? There’s serious money to be made. Many local SMEs are hungry for sleek, mobile-friendly websites and they’re willing to pay well for it. Best part? They’ll pay via M-Pesa without blinking.
10. eBook Reselling
Here’s a low-key hustle: Buy eBooks in bulk and resell them through your WhatsApp, Telegram, or blog. Platforms like ZangCash Pay support M-Pesa withdrawals, making this a neat passive income stream, especially for students.
How to Get Started with Online Work in Kenya
- Start small: Try out low-risk jobs like surveys or data entry first.
- Sharpen your skills: Sites like YouTube and Coursera have tons of free tutorials.
- Use local communities: Join platforms like Kuhustle, Vyemma, or Facebook groups for gigs that pay locally.
- Stay safe: Never pay to get a job. Always check reviews or ask around.
FAQs – Quick Answers to Your Burning Questions
What online job pays the fastest via M-Pesa in Kenya?
Freelance writing and surveys on platforms like iWriter and GeoPoll usually pay the quickest. Some gigs pay within hours of approval.
Do I need a laptop to work online?
Not always. A smartphone is enough for things like surveys, affiliate marketing, or social media work. But for writing, design, or tutoring, a laptop helps.
Is it safe to work on international freelancing sites?
Yes, as long as you use trusted platforms like Upwork or Freelancer. And don’t worry about PayPal; you can use services like Payoneer to withdraw via M-Pesa.
How much can I earn monthly?
It varies. Surveys might fetch you KSh 2,000 a month, while writing or affiliate marketing can go past KSh 50,000 if you’re consistent.
Can students do online jobs and get paid through M-Pesa?
Totally! Many students earn from tutoring, content writing, or even reselling eBooks all with flexible hours and M-Pesa payments.
Final Thoughts
Look, making money online in Kenya isn’t some wild dream anymore. It’s happening right now, and M-Pesa makes it ridiculously easy. Whether you want to escape your daily commute or just earn a little extra on the side, there’s something here for you. Pick one gig that fits your style, dive in, and learn as you go.
Feeling curious? Check out our simple guide to blogging in Kenya, it might be your next big thing!
