Freelance writing is one of the best ways to make money online in Kenya, but landing your first client can feel overwhelming. The good news? Many beginners secure their first gig within weeks—if they use the right strategies!
In this guide, I’ll walk you through 10 proven strategies to help you get your first freelance writing job in Kenya and start making money online.
1. Optimize Your Social Media Profiles
Clients often search for writers on LinkedIn, Twitter, Facebook, and most recently, Reddit. To stand out:
- Update your bio to highlight your writing niche (e.g., “Freelance SEO & Blog Writer in Kenya”).
- Add a professional profile picture and cover image.
- Include a link to your portfolio (even if it’s just 2-3 sample articles).
Post a “Looking for work” update on LinkedIn with hashtags like #contentwriterke, #freelancewriterkenya to attract local clients. With Reddit, joining relevant subreddits can be a chance to meet with potential clients looking to hire. Joining these social media threads and groups also exposes you to people in your niche.
Search for “Freelance Writing Job in Kenya” on Facebook and LinkedIn and “For Hire” or “remote jobs” on Reddit. Many local and international clients post job offers there before listing them elsewhere. Engage with posts, share valuable insights, and avoid spamming with self-promotion.
With properly optimized social media profiles, you can now start sharing your portfolio being confident that it will reach its intended audience.
2. Build Your Portfolio for Freelance Writing Jobs in Kenya
When seeking freelance writing jobs in Kenya, potential clients typically want to see samples of your work before hiring you. If you’re just starting out and don’t have a portfolio yet, here’s how to build one:
Create Your Own Samples
Write 2-3 high-quality blog posts that showcase your writing skills and publish them on your own portfolio website. This gives you practical experience while building confidence in your abilities
By self-publishing, you maintain full control and can refine your work as your skills develop. Focus on topics relevant to the Kenyan market that highlight your expertise
Choose Locally Relevant Topics
Consider writing samples like:
“5 Effective Content Marketing Strategies for Kenyan E-commerce Businesses”
“How to Create Blog Content That Resonates with Kenyan Audiences”
“Writing for Kenya’s Tourism Industry: Best Practices and Cultural Considerations”
Build a Simple Portfolio Website
Platforms like WordPress, Namecheap, Wix, and Blogger offer free or low-cost options to create a professional-looking website
Many Kenyan freelance writers start with these platforms before investing in custom domains
Include an “About Me” section highlighting your understanding of the local market
Make sure your contact information is prominently displayed for potential Kenyan clients.
Leverage Local Knowledge
Emphasize your familiarity with Kenyan businesses, consumer behavior, and cultural nuances
This local perspective gives you an advantage in the competitive Kenyan freelance writing market
Consider including sections for different industries relevant to Kenya’s economy (technology, agriculture, tourism)
The Kenyan freelance writing market is growing rapidly as more businesses recognize the importance of quality content. By following these steps, you’ll be well-positioned to secure writing opportunities with local companies. We also have a guide on how to set up a blog, and the best hosting companies for you as a starter seeking a freelance writing job in Kenya.
3. Join Freelance Writing Job Boards
Some of the best freelance writing sites in kenya include;
Comparison of Freelance Writing Job Platforms for Kenyans
| Platform | Best For | Payment Method | Competition Level | Fees (%) |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Upwork | Long-term clients, Agencies | PayPal, Bank, M-Pesa | High | 10-20% |
| Fiverr | Small gigs, Beginners | PayPal, Bank | Medium | 20% |
| PeoplePerHour | UK & EU clients, Blogging | PayPal, Bank | Medium | 20% |
| iWriter | Article writing only | PayPal | Low | Varies |
These are just a few of the well-known freelance sites globally. Unfortunately, some only allow users from the United States or Europe, like Verblio, but you can have workarounds to tackle that. We also have our own local freelance writing sites in Kenya, but do your due diligence before getting started with them.
4. Cold Pitching: Reach Out to Potential Clients
When pursuing freelance writing jobs in Kenya, proactively reaching out to potential clients can yield excellent results. Here’s how to approach Kenyan businesses that might need your content writing services:
Target the Right Kenyan Prospects
SEO agencies in Kenya are typically excellent clients as they constantly need fresh content for multiple clients.
Research Kenyan digital marketing firms, tech startups, and growing blogs based in Nairobi, Mombasa, and other major cities
Look for Kenyan businesses with outdated blogs or inconsistent posting schedules – these are prime prospects
Consider industries thriving in Kenya: technology, tourism, agriculture, financial services, and e-commerce
Craft an Effective Cold Email
“`
Subject: Need Fresh Content for [Their Company Name]? Kenyan Writer Available
Hi [Contact’s Name],
I noticed [specific observation about their website/content] while browsing [their company name]’s site.
As a freelance writer specializing in [your niche] for Kenyan businesses, I could help you [specific benefit – e.g., “boost your local SEO rankings” or “engage more Kenyan customers”].
Here’s a sample of my work that might interest you: [Portfolio Link]
Would you be available for a quick 15-minute call to discuss how I could contribute to your content needs?
Asante,
[Your Name]
“`
Follow-Up Strategy for Kenyan Clients
Wait 5-7 days before sending a polite follow-up if you don’t receive a response
Remember that many Kenyan businesses receive numerous pitches, so persistence (without being annoying) is key
Be prepared for rejections or silence – this is normal in the Kenyan freelance market as elsewhere
Keep your communications professional, concise, and focused on how you can add value to their specific business in the Kenyan market context.
5. Guest Posting: Build Authority & Get Clients
Guest posting remains one of the most effective strategies to land your first freelance writing job in Kenya :
- Search specifically for “Kenyan blogs accepting guest posts” or “Kenya write for us opportunities”
- PulseLive Kenya, Kenya Insights, Business Daily, and other Kenyan media platforms often welcome guest contributors
- Ensure your author bio highlights your services as a “freelance writer in Kenya” to attract local clients
- The Kenyan digital market values writers who understand local context and culture
6. Offer a Free or Discounted First Gig
When starting out a career or seeking a freelance writing job in Kenya:
- Offer Kenyan businesses a discounted trial article to showcase your understanding of their market
- Position yourself as a specialized freelance writer in Kenya who understands local consumer behavior
- Use these initial projects to build testimonials from Kenyan companies
- The Kenyan freelance writing market is relationship-driven, so first impressions matter significantly
7. Network With Other Freelance Writers
The Kenyan freelance writing ecosystem offers numerous networking opportunities:
- Join Facebook groups specific to “Freelance Writers Kenya” and “Content Creators Kenya”
- Follow established Kenyan freelance writers on Twitter, LinkedIn, and TikTok where many share insights
- Attend writing workshops and networking events in Nairobi, which might lead to a freelance writing job in Kenya
- Participate in online forums where Kenyan businesses seek content services
8. Improve Your SEO Skills to Attract Clients
Clients prefer writers who understand SEO. Learn basics like:
- Keyword research (use Google’s Keyword Planner, Ubersuggest, or AnswerThePublic).
- Using proper headings, readability, and meta descriptions.
Learning is a continuous journey, and the freelance world is ever-changing. Don’t be rigid by sticking to the norms. Utilize the free resources offered by the SEO tools to perfect your skill.
If you opt for a more professional learning approach, many academies in Kenya offer online article writing training. Check out our article writing training to get started.
9. Keep applying & never give up!
Finding the first freelance writing job in Kenya takes effort, but consistency wins.
- Apply for 5-10 jobs daily.
- Follow up with interested clients.
Track your pitches in a spreadsheet and refine your approach based on responses.
10. Leverage Local Job Boards & Classified Websites
Focus on platforms where Kenyan businesses actively seek content creators:
- BrighterMonday Kenya frequently lists content and copywriting opportunities
- Ajira Digital often features freelance writing jobs in Kenya’s government and private sectors. They are also a perfect choice for free freelance training
- The Kenyan Writers Guild occasionally shares opportunities for freelance writers
- Local Kenyan startups frequently post writing needs in entrepreneurship groups and forums
Use filters like “remote,” “content writer,” or “freelance” to find relevant gigs.
Be keen; however, some of these sites can be full of scammers. So watch out for the obvious red flags.
How much does a freelance writing job in Kenya pay?
Freelance writing rates in Kenya vary significantly based on experience, expertise, and client type. Entry-level writers typically earn between Ksh 1-2 per word or Ksh 500-1,500 per article.
Experienced writers can command Ksh 3-5 per word or Ksh 2,000-10,000 per article. Technical writers and specialized content creators often earn more, ranging from Ksh 5,000-20,000 per piece. Academic writers working with international clients can earn between Ksh 2,000-5,000 per page.
How to make Ksh 10,000 per day in Kenya through freelance writing?
Making Ksh 10, 000 per day freelance writing sounds like a long shot, but once you master the craft and gain notable experience, it becomes quite easy. Regardless, the process still remains the same as outlined below;
- Build a diverse client portfolio (4-5 regular clients)
- Focus on higher-paying niches like technical writing or specialized content
- Deliver multiple articles daily (2-4 articles at Ksh 2,500-5,000 each)
- Combine content writing with editing or proofreading services
- Maintain high quality to secure repeat clients and referrals
- Consider working with international clients who typically pay higher rates
Where can I write articles and get paid in Kenya?
Popular platforms and opportunities include:
- Content mills: Upwork, Fiverr, PeoplePerHour
- Direct client platforms: LinkedIn, Contena, Reddit
- Local content agencies: Local digital marketing agencies
- News sites: Nation Media Group, Standard Media, Pulse Kenya
- Academic writing platforms: Uvocorp, Academia-Research
- Corporate blogs and websites
- International freelance job boards: ProBlogger, FreelanceWriting.com
Keep on applying while also improving your skills and when the right opportunity strikes, go for it.
How do I start freelance writing in Kenya?
The general steps of getting started with freelancing include:
- Choose your writing niche (technical, creative, academic, etc.)
- Develop your writing skills through online courses and practice
- Create writing samples and build a portfolio
- Set up professional profiles on LinkedIn and freelance platforms
- Start pitching to potential clients and applying for writing jobs
- Network with other writers and join writing communities
- Create a simple website or blog to showcase your work
- Begin with smaller projects to build experience and reviews
- Gradually increase your rates as you gain expertise
- Maintain a consistent learning and improvement mindset
Conclusion
By consistently positioning yourself specifically as a freelance writer in Kenya and demonstrating your understanding of the local market, you’ll differentiate yourself from international competitors and will therefore have a higher chance of landing a freelance writing job in Kenya.