What is Freelance Writing?
Freelance writing = Self-employed writing work where you work for multiple clients on a project basis (not permanent employment).
You write:
- Blog posts
- Articles
- Website copy
- Social media content
- Product descriptions
- Email newsletters
- Technical documentation
- Academic papers
- Press releases
- Grant proposals
- And more
You work from home (or anywhere with internet), set your own hours, choose your clients.
Payment: Per word, per article, per hour, or per project.
Why Freelance Writing in Kenya?
Growing Opportunity
Kenya’s digital economy is booming:
- Increasing internet penetration (over 80% mobile access)
- Growing number of businesses needing online content
- International clients hiring Kenyan writers (competitive rates, strong English skills)
Remote work now mainstream post-COVID.
Low Barrier to Entry
You don’t need:
- University degree (though helpful)
- Expensive equipment (just laptop/phone + internet)
- Office space
- Capital investment
You DO need:
- Strong writing skills in English
- Internet connection
- Discipline and self-motivation
Flexible and Scalable
Work when you want:
- Part-time while studying/employed
- Full-time career
- Side hustle for extra income
Scale earnings:
- Start small (KES 5,000-15,000/month)
- Grow to mid-level (KES 30,000-80,000/month)
- Top writers earn KES 150,000+/month
Financial Independence
Especially valuable for:
- Students (earn while learning)
- Stay-at-home parents (work around family)
- People in areas with limited formal employment
- Anyone seeking additional income
Types of Freelance Writing
1. Content Writing (Most Common)
What it is: Writing blog posts, articles, website content for businesses.
Topics: Business, health, technology, travel, finance, education, lifestyle—everything.
Payment: KES 200-1,500+ per 500-word article (depends on quality, niche, client).
Example: Writing “10 Best Restaurants in Nairobi” for tourism blog.
Good for: Beginners (high demand, easier to find work).
2. Copywriting
What it is: Writing persuasive content to sell products/services.
Types:
- Sales pages
- Email marketing campaigns
- Ads (Facebook, Google)
- Product descriptions (e-commerce)
- Landing pages
Payment: Higher rates (KES 5,000-50,000+ per project) because you’re helping clients make money.
Example: Writing email series to promote new course.
Good for: Writers with marketing sense, persuasive writing skills.
3. Technical Writing
What it is: Writing manuals, guides, documentation for software, products, processes.
Topics: User manuals, API documentation, how-to guides, SOPs (Standard Operating Procedures).
Payment: High rates (KES 1,000-3,000+ per 500 words) because requires specialized knowledge.
Example: Writing user guide for mobile banking app.
Good for: Writers with technical background (IT, engineering, science).
4. Academic Writing
What it is: Writing essays, research papers, assignments for students.
Note: Ethical considerations (some consider this cheating—be aware of moral implications).
Payment: KES 300-800+ per page (275 words).
Demand: High (many students seek help).
Good for: Writers with strong academic background.
Caution: Risky (some clients don’t pay, quality disputes common, legal grey area in some contexts).
5. Grant Writing
What it is: Writing proposals for organizations seeking funding (NGOs, schools, businesses).
Requires: Understanding of proposal structure, budgeting, donor requirements.
Payment: High (KES 20,000-200,000+ per proposal depending on size).
Example: Writing proposal for NGO seeking funding for water project in Turkana.
Good for: Experienced writers with nonprofit/development background.
6. Journalism/News Writing
What it is: Writing news articles, features, interviews for online publications.
Platforms: Online newspapers, magazines, blogs.
Payment: Varies (KES 500-5,000+ per article).
Example: Writing feature on CBC implementation challenges.
Good for: Writers with journalism background or strong reporting skills.
7. Social Media Content
What it is: Creating captions, posts, threads for businesses’ social media accounts.
Platforms: Facebook, Instagram, Twitter (X), LinkedIn, TikTok.
Payment: KES 5,000-30,000+ per month (managing one account).
Example: Writing daily posts for restaurant’s Instagram.
Good for: Writers who understand social media trends, audience engagement.
8. Email Newsletters
What it is: Writing regular emails for businesses to send to their subscribers.
Purpose: Keep audience engaged, promote products, share news.
Payment: KES 1,000-5,000+ per email.
Example: Writing weekly newsletter for fitness coach with tips, success stories, product promotions.
Good for: Writers who can build connection with audience.
Skills You Need
1. Strong English Writing
Most important skill.
You must:
- Write grammatically correct sentences
- Use proper punctuation, spelling
- Vary sentence structure (not repetitive)
- Write clearly and concisely
Improve:
- Read widely (books, quality articles)
- Practice daily
- Use tools like Grammarly (free version)
- Take free online courses (Coursera, edX—writing courses)
2. Research Skills
Clients expect accurate, well-researched content.
You’ll need to:
- Find reliable sources (Google Scholar, reputable websites)
- Fact-check information
- Synthesize information from multiple sources
- Cite sources when required
Tip: Learn to evaluate source credibility (avoid fake news sites, unreliable blogs).
3. SEO Basics (Search Engine Optimization)
Many clients want SEO content (optimized for Google search).
Basic SEO skills:
- Keyword research (what people search for)
- Using keywords naturally in content
- Writing compelling titles and meta descriptions
- Internal/external linking
- Header structure (H1, H2, H3)
Learn free:
- Google’s SEO Starter Guide
- Moz Beginner’s Guide to SEO
- YouTube tutorials (Ahrefs, SEMrush channels)
Don’t worry: You don’t need to be SEO expert—basic understanding enough for most projects.
4. Time Management
Freelancing requires discipline.
You must:
- Meet deadlines (crucial for reputation)
- Manage multiple projects simultaneously
- Work without boss supervising
Tips:
- Use calendar/planner
- Set daily writing goals (e.g., 2,000 words/day)
- Create routine (work same hours daily)
- Avoid distractions (turn off TV, social media during work hours)
5. Client Communication
Professional communication = more jobs, better rates.
You must:
- Respond promptly to messages
- Ask clarifying questions before starting
- Update clients on progress
- Handle feedback gracefully (revisions are normal)
Write professionally:
- Use proper grammar in emails
- Be polite and respectful
- Be clear about rates, deadlines, scope
6. Adaptability
You’ll write about many topics—some you know nothing about.
Ability to:
- Learn quickly
- Switch between topics/styles
- Follow client’s brand voice (formal vs casual)
Example: Today you write about accounting software; tomorrow about skincare routines.
Getting Started: Step-by-Step
Step 1: Set Up Your Workspace
You need:
- Laptop or desktop (phone possible but limiting)
- Reliable internet (Safaricom, Airtel bundles—budget KES 1,000-3,000/month)
- Quiet workspace (minimize distractions)
- Backup power (power bank or generator if electricity unreliable)
Software (all free):
- Google Docs (for writing, sharing with clients)
- Grammarly (grammar checking)
- Chrome browser (for research)
Step 2: Build Writing Skills
If you’re beginner:
-
Read quality content daily (The Guardian, BBC, Medium, reputable blogs in your niche)
-
Practice writing (start a blog, write sample articles)
-
Take free courses:
- Coursera: “Writing Professional Emails and Memos”
- edX: “English Grammar and Essay Writing”
- Alison: “Introduction to Journalism”
-
Study SEO basics (free guides from Moz, Ahrefs)
Aim: Write at least 500 words daily (even if no paid work yet—practice!).
Step 3: Create a Portfolio
Problem: Clients want to see samples before hiring.
Solution: Create 3-5 writing samples.
How:
Option 1: Start a Blog
- Use free platform (WordPress.com, Medium, Blogger)
- Write 5-10 quality articles on topics you know/enjoy
- These become your portfolio
Option 2: Guest Post
- Offer to write free article for existing blog in exchange for byline (your name published)
- Builds portfolio + exposure
Option 3: Create Google Doc Samples
- Write sample articles as if for real client
- Save in Google Drive, set to “Anyone with link can view”
- Share links with potential clients
Portfolio tips:
- Choose diverse topics (shows range)
- Write 800-1,200 words per sample (substantial)
- Use proper formatting (headings, subheadings, bullets)
- Proofread meticulously (errors = lost opportunities)
Examples of good sample topics:
- “10 Side Hustles for Kenyan Students”
- “Beginner’s Guide to Mobile Money in Kenya”
- “How to Start Poultry Farming in Kenya”
- “Mental Health Awareness in Kenyan Workplaces”
Step 4: Choose Platforms to Find Work
Two main routes:
A. Freelance Marketplaces (Easiest for Beginners)
International Platforms:
1. Upwork (www.upwork.com)
- Largest freelance platform
- Many writing jobs (content, copywriting, technical)
- Payment via PayPal, Payoneer, direct bank transfer
- Pros: High volume of jobs, escrow protection (guaranteed payment)
- Cons: 20% fee on first $500 with each client (reduces over time), competitive (bid against writers globally)
- Best for: Writers with portfolio, willing to start with low rates to build reputation
2. Fiverr (www.fiverr.com)
- You create “gigs” (service listings) clients buy
- Set your rates (KES 500 “gig” = $5 after Fiverr’s cut)
- Payment via PayPal, Payoneer, bank transfer
- Pros: Clients come to you (less bidding), easy to start
- Cons: Race to bottom (many cheap competitors), 20% fee
- Best for: Beginners, writers willing to start cheap to build reviews
3. Freelancer (www.freelancer.com)
- Similar to Upwork (bid on projects)
- Many academic writing, content jobs
- Pros: Good for beginners, diverse jobs
- Cons: Fees, highly competitive
4. Contently, Textbroker, WriterAccess
- Content mills (high volume, lower rates)
- Apply, pass test, get access to jobs
- Pros: Steady work, easy to start
- Cons: Low pay (KES 100-300 per 500 words), repetitive
- Best for: Building experience, supplementary income
African Platforms:
1. Fuzu (www.fuzu.com)
- Kenyan job platform with freelance section
- Connects you with local businesses
- Pros: Kenyan clients (easier payment via M-Pesa), less competition
- Cons: Fewer jobs than international platforms
2. BrighterMonday, MyJobMag
- Occasionally list freelance writing jobs
- Check regularly
B. Direct Client Pitching (Higher Rates, More Effort)
Once you have skills + portfolio, pitch directly to businesses.
Who to pitch:
- Small businesses without blog/website content
- Kenyan startups
- Marketing agencies (often outsource writing)
- Online publications accepting contributors
How to find them:
- Google: “Kenyan marketing blogs”, “Nairobi tech blogs”, etc.
- LinkedIn: Search for content managers, marketing directors in Kenya
- Twitter: Follow Kenyan businesses, engage with content
- Facebook groups: Join Kenyan business, marketing groups
How to pitch:
- Research (visit website, read their content)
- Identify gap (they have no blog, or blog outdated)
- Write personalized email:
Subject: Content Writing Services for [Company Name]
Hi [Name],
I came across [Company Name] while researching Kenyan [industry], and I’m impressed by [specific thing about their work].
I noticed your blog hasn’t been updated since [date], which is a missed opportunity to attract customers via Google search. I’m a freelance writer specializing in [niche], and I’d love to help you create high-quality, SEO-optimized content that drives traffic and engagement.
I’ve worked with [mention any clients or types of projects], and I understand [their industry’s] unique challenges and audience.
Would you be open to a quick call to discuss how I can support your content needs? I’m happy to provide writing samples and a proposal at no obligation.
Best regards, [Your Name] [Your Phone] [Portfolio Link]
- Follow up after one week if no response (politely)
Conversion rate: Expect 1-5% response rate (pitch 100 businesses, get 1-5 clients)—don’t be discouraged!
Step 5: Set Your Rates
Kenyan freelance writing rates (2024):
Beginners (0-6 months experience):
- KES 200-400 per 500-word article
- KES 20,000-40,000/month potential (if full-time)
Intermediate (6 months-2 years):
- KES 500-1,000 per 500 words
- KES 50,000-100,000/month potential
Experienced (2+ years, specialized):
- KES 1,500-3,000+ per 500 words
- KES 100,000-200,000+/month potential
Factors affecting rates:
- Niche: Technical, medical, legal writing pays more than general content
- Research required: Complex topics = higher rates
- Client type: International clients pay more than local; corporations pay more than small businesses
- Your reputation: More reviews/testimonials = can charge more
Pricing models:
- Per word: KES 1-6 per word (e.g., 1,000 words × KES 2 = KES 2,000)
- Per article: Fixed rate (e.g., KES 1,000 per blog post regardless of length)
- Per hour: KES 500-2,000/hour
- Monthly retainer: Client pays fixed monthly fee (e.g., KES 30,000/month for 10 articles)
Tips:
- Start lower to build portfolio and reviews
- Raise rates every 3-6 months as you improve
- Don’t undervalue yourself (KES 50 per 500 words is exploitation)
- Charge more for rush jobs (24-48 hour turnaround)
Step 6: Set Up Payment Methods
Challenge: Most international clients pay via PayPal or bank transfer.
Solutions:
1. PayPal (www.paypal.com)
- Create free account (use your email)
- Receive payments from international clients
- Problem: Can’t withdraw directly to Kenyan bank
- Solution: Use PayPal-to-M-Pesa services:
- TransferWise (Wise): Transfer PayPal to Wise, then withdraw to M-Pesa (fees ~3%)
- PayPal-to-M-Pesa via third-party services (check current options—regulations change)
- Alternative: Withdraw to Equity Bank PayPal account (they support PayPal withdrawals)
2. Payoneer (www.payoneer.com)
- Similar to PayPal
- Easier to withdraw to Kenyan banks (Equity, KCB, Co-op)
- Lower fees
- Many freelancers prefer over PayPal
3. M-Pesa
- For local Kenyan clients
- Instant, convenient
- Provide your M-Pesa number (safaricom number)
4. Bank Transfer
- For larger clients/amounts
- Provide your bank details (account number, bank name, SWIFT code for international)
5. Skrill, Neteller
- Alternative to PayPal
- Check withdrawal options to Kenya
Recommendation: Set up PayPal + Payoneer + M-Pesa to maximize client options.
Finding Your First Client
Hardest part: Getting first paid job (no reviews, no reputation).
Strategies:
1. Start on Fiverr or Upwork
Fiverr:
- Create gig: “I will write a 500-word SEO article for $5” (yes, very cheap, but goal is FIRST REVIEW)
- Deliver excellent work
- Ask satisfied client to leave 5-star review
- After 5-10 reviews, raise rates
Upwork:
- Complete profile 100% (photo, portfolio, description)
- Start with low bid to win first job (e.g., bid KES 300 for KES 1,000 job—yes, you’ll underprice, but you need reviews)
- Deliver exceptional work
- After 3-5 good reviews, bid competitively
2. Offer Free/Cheap Work to Build Portfolio
Controversial but effective:
- Offer to write 1-2 free articles for small business/blog in exchange for testimonial + permission to use as portfolio sample
- Or charge very low rate (KES 200 per article)
- Duration: Do this for 1 month max, then charge proper rates
Where to offer:
- Facebook groups (Kenyan entrepreneurs, bloggers)
- LinkedIn (connect with startup founders, ask if they need content)
- Friends/family businesses
3. Apply to Content Mills
Textbroker, iWriter, Constant Content:
- Apply (pass grammar test)
- Start writing immediately (no bidding)
- Low pay, but steady work to practice
4. Network Online
Join:
- Facebook groups: “Kenyan Freelancers”, “Kenyan Writers”, “Content Writing Jobs Kenya”
- LinkedIn: Connect with content managers, editors
- Twitter: Follow #WritingJobs, #FreelanceWriting, engage with content about writing
- Telegram groups: Search “freelance writing Kenya”
Opportunities posted in these communities.
5. Pitch, Pitch, Pitch
Send 5-10 pitches daily to:
- Blogs accepting guest posts (Google: “your niche + write for us”)
- Small businesses without active blog
- LinkedIn job postings (filter by “freelance”, “writing”)
Volume game: More pitches = higher chance of landing client.
Managing Your Freelance Business
Time Management
Challenge: Working from home with no boss = procrastination risk.
Solutions:
1. Set schedule:
- Decide working hours (e.g., 8am-5pm Monday-Friday, or 6pm-10pm if part-time)
- Treat it like real job (show up on time)
2. Set daily goals:
- Words written (e.g., 2,000 words/day)
- Articles completed (e.g., 2 articles/day)
- Pitches sent (e.g., 5 pitches/day)
3. Use tools:
- Google Calendar: Block time for writing, research, pitching
- Trello or Notion: Track projects, deadlines
- Pomodoro technique: Work 25 min, break 5 min (repeat)
4. Minimize distractions:
- Turn off phone notifications
- Use website blockers (Block Site extension) to block Facebook, WhatsApp web during work hours
- Designate workspace (not bed/couch—associate specific space with work)
Client Management
1. Clear communication:
- Confirm all details before starting (deadline, word count, format, payment)
- Ask questions if brief unclear
- Update client if you’ll be late (emergencies happen)
2. Contracts/Agreements:
- For larger projects (KES 10,000+), use simple written agreement (Google Doc):
Project: 10 blog posts, 1,000 words each
Deadline: 31st December
Payment: KES 15,000 (50% upfront, 50% on completion)
Revisions: Up to 2 rounds included - Both parties “sign” (type names, date)
3. Invoicing:
- Send invoice after completing work (unless client has own system)
- Simple format:
Invoice
Date: 15th Dec 2024
From: Your Name
To: Client NameServices Rendered:
- 5 blog posts, 1,000 words each = KES 10,000
Total: KES 10,000
Payment Method: M-Pesa [Your Number] or PayPal [Your Email]
4. Dealing with difficult clients:
- Non-payment: Request 50% upfront for new clients; if client refuses to pay remaining, politely remind once, then move on (not worth the stress—lesson learned)
- Endless revisions: Specify in agreement (e.g., “2 rounds of revisions included; additional revisions KES 500 each”)
- Scope creep (“Can you also write…?”): Politely state that’s additional work, provide quote
Finances and Taxes
Track income:
- Use spreadsheet (Google Sheets):
Date | Client | Project | Amount | Payment Method
Taxes:
- Freelance income is taxable in Kenya (KRA regulations)
- If earning over KES 24,000/year (~KES 2,000/month), you should file tax returns
- Get KRA PIN (if you don’t have)
- File monthly/quarterly (if registered business) or annually (if individual)
- Consult accountant or KRA iTax portal for guidance (beyond scope of this guide, but important!)
Budgeting:
- Freelance income irregular—some months high, some low
- Emergency fund: Save 3-6 months expenses
- Don’t spend all in good months—budget for slow months
Challenges and Solutions
Challenge 1: Inconsistent Income
Problem: Some months you earn KES 50,000, next month KES 10,000.
Solutions:
- Build emergency fund
- Secure retainer clients (monthly fixed income)
- Diversify clients (don’t rely on one client for 80% of income)
- Save high-earning months to cover low months
Challenge 2: Non-Paying Clients
Problem: Client disappears without paying.
Solutions:
- Request 50% deposit upfront (especially new clients)
- Use platforms with escrow (Upwork, Fiverr—payment protected)
- If direct client, use contract
- Vet clients (Google them, check reviews if available)
- Accept occasional loss as business cost (don’t chase endlessly—move on)
Challenge 3: Writer’s Block
Problem: Staring at blank screen, can’t write.
Solutions:
- Start with outline (headings, subheadings, bullet points), then fill in
- Write bad first draft, edit later (perfection = procrastination)
- Change environment (write at library, coffee shop)
- Take break (walk, exercise—sometimes brain needs rest)
- Read to spark ideas
Challenge 4: Internet/Electricity Issues
Problem: Power outage, internet down—can’t work.
Solutions:
- Power:
- Laptop with good battery life (6+ hours)
- Power bank for laptop or small generator
- Work during daylight (save power)
- Plan around load-shedding schedule if applicable
- Internet:
- Have backup: If Safaricom down, switch to Airtel (buy bundles from both networks)
- Use phone hotspot as backup
- Download research materials when internet available, write offline
- Coffee shops/libraries with free WiFi (alternative workspace)
Challenge 5: Isolation
Problem: Freelancing lonely—no coworkers, social interaction.
Solutions:
- Join online communities (Facebook groups, Twitter, LinkedIn—interact with fellow writers)
- Co-working spaces (Nairobi has several—Nailab, iHub; even working from coffee shop helps)
- Schedule social time (don’t work 24/7)
- Video calls with other freelancers (accountability partners)
Challenge 6: Burnout
Problem: Working too much, exhausted, quality drops.
Solutions:
- Set boundaries (work hours, don’t check email 24/7)
- Take at least one day off per week
- Say no to projects when overwhelmed (quality over quantity)
- Raise rates (work less, earn same by charging more)
Growing Your Freelance Writing Career
Level Up Your Skills
Never stop learning:
- Advanced SEO (take courses)
- Copywriting (study sales psychology)
- Specialization (pick niche—fintech, health, SaaS—become expert)
- New formats (video scripts, podcast show notes, LinkedIn ghostwriting)
Increase Rates Regularly
Don’t stay at beginner rates forever:
- Every 6 months, raise rates 20-30%
- Inform existing clients: “Starting Jan 1st, my rates will be…”
- Some may leave—that’s okay (replace with higher-paying clients)
Build Your Brand
Establish yourself as expert:
- Active LinkedIn (share writing tips, industry insights)
- Twitter presence (engage with writing community)
- Medium blog (publish your best work)
- Guest post on reputable sites (builds authority)
Get Testimonials
Social proof = more clients:
- After successful project, ask client: “Would you mind writing brief testimonial I can share?”
- Display testimonials on LinkedIn, portfolio site
Transition to Retainer Clients
Goal: Stable monthly income.
Strategy:
- Once you’ve worked with client on several one-off projects, propose retainer:
“I’ve enjoyed working with you. Would you be interested in a monthly retainer? For KES 30,000/month, I’ll write 10 articles—saves you time on individual negotiations, guarantees my availability.”
- Many clients appreciate consistency
Consider Niche Specialization
General writer: KES 300-600 per 500 words
Specialist (e.g., fintech, healthcare, legal): KES 1,000-3,000+ per 500 words
Pick niche based on:
- Your background (if you studied business, write about business)
- Your interests (passionate about health? Write health content)
- Demand + pay (tech, finance, healthcare pay well)
Become go-to writer for that niche = command higher rates.
Success Stories (Inspiration)
Many Kenyans earning full-time income from freelance writing:
- University student in Eldoret earns KES 30,000/month writing academic papers part-time—pays rent, fees.
- Stay-at-home mom in Mombasa earns KES 60,000/month writing content for US clients—supports family while raising children.
- Former journalist in Nairobi transitioned to freelance, now earns KES 150,000/month writing for international tech companies—enjoys flexibility, higher income than newsroom job.
Common thread: Started small, persisted through challenges, continuously improved skills, built reputation.
You can too.
Quick Start Action Plan
Week 1: Learn and Prepare
- Read this guide fully
- Study 10-15 quality articles in niche you want to write about
- Watch 3 YouTube tutorials on SEO writing
- Set up workspace (dedicate corner, table, or room)
Week 2: Build Portfolio
- Write 3 sample articles (800-1,000 words each)
- Topics: Choose what you know or research thoroughly
- Proofread meticulously
- Create Google Docs, share links or start simple blog (Medium, WordPress)
Week 3: Set Up Accounts
- Create Upwork account (complete profile 100%, add portfolio samples)
- Create Fiverr account (create 2-3 gigs)
- Set up PayPal/Payoneer account
- Join 5 Facebook groups for Kenyan freelancers/writers
Week 4: Start Applying
- Apply to 10 Upwork jobs (bid low to win first job)
- Send 10 pitches to small businesses/blogs
- Post in Facebook groups offering services
- Aim: Get first paid project
Month 2-3: Build Momentum
- Complete first projects exceptionally (earn 5-star reviews)
- Apply/pitch daily
- Raise rates slightly after 5 good reviews
- Goal: Earn KES 10,000-20,000
Month 4-6: Scale
- Raise rates 30%
- Focus on better-paying platforms/clients
- Build retainer relationship with 1-2 clients
- Goal: Earn KES 30,000-50,000
Month 7-12: Establish
- Continue raising rates
- Specialize in profitable niche
- Build online presence (LinkedIn, Twitter)
- Goal: Earn KES 50,000-100,000+ (full-time)
Resources
Learning:
- Coursera: “Introduction to Copywriting” (free audit)
- Moz Beginner’s Guide to SEO: https://moz.com/beginners-guide-to-seo
- Copyblogger Blog: www.copyblogger.com (copywriting tips)
- YouTube: “Income School” channel (content writing), “Alex Cattoni” (copywriting)
Tools:
- Grammarly (free): www.grammarly.com
- Hemingway Editor (free): www.hemingwayapp.com (makes writing clear, concise)
- Google Docs (free): docs.google.com
- Trello (free): www.trello.com (project management)
Job Platforms:
- Upwork: www.upwork.com
- Fiverr: www.fiverr.com
- Freelancer: www.freelancer.com
- Fuzu: www.fuzu.com
Communities:
- Facebook: Search “Kenyan Freelancers”, “Kenyan Content Writers”
- LinkedIn: Join “Freelance Writers Den”, “Content Marketing Institute”
- Reddit: r/freelancewriters (international but useful tips)
Final Thoughts
Freelance writing = Legitimate, viable career in Kenya.
It’s not get-rich-quick—requires:
- Strong writing skills
- Discipline
- Persistence (rejection is normal)
- Continuous learning
But rewards are significant:
- Flexibility (work from anywhere, set hours)
- Independence (be your own boss)
- Scalability (earnings can grow substantially)
- Skill development (writing, marketing, business management)
Start today:
- Write your first sample article
- Create Upwork profile
- Send your first pitch
Every expert writer started as beginner—your first KES 500 article is the foundation for future KES 50,000 months.
Kenya’s digital economy is growing—there’s space for skilled, reliable, professional writers.
Your story could be next success story.
Good luck, and happy writing!