In this article you will learn how to start the Best Business to start in Nairobi Kenya in 2024 and top best businesses to start in Kenya with a small capital.
Best Business to start in Nairobi Kenya in 2024
Nairobi is the biggest city in Kenya and it’s one of the fastest growing cities in the world. With a population of more than five million, this amazing city has the perfect environment for a good business to thrive. All businesses in Nairobi are very profitable expect for the one that are poorly managed by their owners.
If you have some capital that can help you start a business, here are some of the best businesses to start in Nairobi and great businesses ideas that can make you successful real fast.
Nairobi is a bustling city with many opportunities for entrepreneurs. Here are some of the best businesses to start in Nairobi, Kenya:
1. Selling new clothes and Mitumba clothes
If you walk along the street of Gikomba and Muthurwa you will notice how businessmen and women are busy selling cloths to their customers. The best advantage of starting a clothing business is that, people will always buy clothes nor matter how the country economy drops down. With as little as Kshs. 10,000 to 50,000 you can start a clothing business and grow big within a short period of time.
Mitumba clothes are second-hand clothes imported primarily from Western countries. These clothes are sold at lower prices and include a wide range of garments such as casual wear, formal wear, sportswear, children’s clothing, and accessories.
One of the best clothing items that sells well are women fashion, men T-shirts and women shoes. Click here if you want to know how to sell mitumba clothes online.
2. Selling on Jiji
One of the Best Business to start in Nairobi Kenya in 2024 is selling on Jiji. The greatest advantage of using Jiji (formerly OLX) and other free online classified sites is that you don’t require any form of capital or fees to post your adverts. As long as you have a reliable internet connection, it’s very easy to make money with online classified sites. Nowadays there are so many businesses offering big commissions on every product that you refer a customer to them. For example, you can advertise that you sell electronics such as TVs, Home theaters, Microwaves, fridges on olx. When someone calls you and inquires about how to buy your products, you redirect him/her to the official shop or store. Let’s say for example you referred someone to buy a TV that cost KSH 25,000 and your commission is 2.5 percent of the final price, you will receive KSH 625. If you sell an average of 10 TVs a week, that will net you KSH 6250 without putting too much effort. Besides selling products on commissions, you can also buy goods on wholesale and then sell them on a good price that will generate profit.
3. M-pesa Agent – Best Business to start in Nairobi Kenya in 2024
Well, every year you hear Safaricom announcing profits worth billions of shillings. M-pesa is one of the leading money transfer platform in Kenya and most people like to use it due to its low cost fees and fast instant transactions. Starting an Mpesa business in Nairobi requires you to have a capital of between KSH 100,000 to KSH 300,000 but the capital can be as low as KSH 60,000. The average profit for m-pesa business is KSH 55,000 per month but some busy shops in CBD, Malls and westlands make up to KSH 350,000 per month.
4. Kinyozi
Learn how to Start a barber shop kinyozi in Nairobi Kenya. Kinyozis are one of the most popular single businesses run by most youths in Kenya. To start a kinyozi you need a startup capital of around KSH 50,000. Most kinyozis in CBD pocket from 40,000 to 130,000 a month. Click here to learn about how to start a barbershop Kinyozi business in Nairobi.
5. Salons
Over 90 percent of women in this world worry about their hair and fashion looks. Most women visit the salon regularly to ensure that they look amazing and neat. Beauty services are in high demand in Nairobi, and starting a beauty salon is a great business idea. You can offer hair, nail, and skin care services, as well as makeup services.
In Nairobi an Executive salon requires a set up capital of around KSH 300,000 to KSH 1M. Purchasing hair dressing machines and other stationery are one the stuffs that will take a large portion of your capital, but once you invest in good appliances you will start seeing customers and clients flow to your salon on a daily basis.
If you manage your salon very well you can pocket a round KSH 100,000 to 350,000 per month and even more than this amount if your salon is strategically positioned.
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6. Car Wash
If you are a road observer, you can easily note the number of new cars being purchased everyday in kenya. The numbers are growing rapidly and these cars will need some servicing and cleaning after some few days or weeks. A regular car wash cost around KSH 200 to KSH 500, if you open a car wash in an urban area in Nairobi and wash 8 to 20 cars a day, then you can easily make a profit or income of KSH 3,500 to KSH 9,000 a day.
7. Fast Food Shop and self-service restaurants
If you walk to any fast food shops or restaurants during launch time in Nairobi, you will notice how crowded the places are. People like to eat in Nairobi hotels. One of the bestselling foods are Chips, Chicken, cakes and traditional foods. There are some 24/7 self-service restaurants in Nairobi that make up-to KSH 300,000 a month.
Starting a business in Nairobi offers a plethora of opportunities due to its dynamic economy, strategic location, and vibrant entrepreneurial culture. Here are some of the best business ideas to consider, tailored to the unique market conditions in Nairobi.
- Why: High demand for diverse culinary experiences and convenience foods.
- What: Restaurants, fast food outlets, food trucks, bakeries, specialty coffee shops, or catering services.
- How: Focus on a niche market such as health foods, ethnic cuisines, or delivery-only kitchens.
8. E-Commerce and Online Retail
Starting an online store is a great business idea in Nairobi, as the e-commerce industry in Kenya is growing rapidly. You can sell a variety of products, from clothing to electronics, to a wide audience. To get started click here for e-commerce /web design services.
- Why: Rising internet penetration and a growing middle class are driving online shopping trends.
- What: Fashion and accessories, electronics, beauty products, groceries, and household items.
- How: Start an online store using platforms like Jumia, Kilimall, or create your own website.
9. Food Delivery Business
With the busy lifestyles of Nairobi residents, a food delivery service is a great business idea. You can either prepare your own food or partner with restaurants and offer a convenient way for customers to order and receive their meals.
10. Agribusiness
- Why: Agriculture is a significant sector in Kenya, and urban farming is gaining popularity.
- What: Organic farming, hydroponics, poultry farming, dairy farming, or supplying fresh produce to urban markets.
- How: Utilize modern farming techniques and leverage local markets or export opportunities.
11. Technology and IT Services
- Why: Nairobi is a tech hub with a strong start-up ecosystem, known as Silicon Savannah.
- What: App development, web development, IT consulting, cybersecurity, or tech support services.
- How: Offer services to local businesses or develop innovative solutions to address local needs.
12. Real Estate and Property Management
Nairobi’s real estate market is growing rapidly, and starting a real estate agency can be a lucrative business idea. You can help clients buy, sell, and rent properties, and earn commissions on each transaction. Stay informed about local real estate market trends, including property values, rental rates, and demand for different types of properties.
- Why: Growing urbanization and demand for residential and commercial properties.
- What: Real estate agency, property management, rental services, or real estate development.
- How: Focus on emerging areas with high growth potential and provide value-added services.
13. Health and Wellness
- Why: Increased awareness of health and fitness among the population.
- What: Fitness centers, yoga studios, health food stores, wellness coaching, or alternative medicine.
- How: Create a holistic wellness brand that offers a combination of products and services.
14. Education and Training
- Why: High demand for quality education and professional development.
- What: Tutoring centers, vocational training institutes, online courses, or language schools.
- How: Offer specialized programs that cater to market demands like tech skills, business management, or languages.
15. Tourism and Hospitality
- Why: Nairobi is a gateway to many tourist attractions in Kenya.
- What: Tour operations, travel agency, boutique hotels, Airbnb management, or cultural experiences.
- How: Focus on unique, personalized experiences and eco-friendly tourism options.
16. Renewable Energy Solutions
- Why: Growing need for sustainable energy solutions in urban and rural areas.
- What: Solar panel installation, solar water heaters, energy auditing, or bioenergy solutions.
- How: Provide affordable and scalable solutions for homes and businesses.
17. Transportation and Logistics
- Why: Nairobi is a major transport hub, and efficient logistics are crucial for businesses.
- What: Ride-hailing services, delivery services, freight and logistics management, or car rental services.
- How: Leverage technology to offer reliable and efficient services.
18. Beauty and Personal Care
- Why: Increasing interest in beauty and grooming products and services.
- What: Beauty salons, barbershops, spas, cosmetic retail, or skincare products.
- How: Offer high-quality, locally sourced, or organic products and services.
19. Event Planning and Management
Nairobi is a hub for corporate and social events, and an event planning business can thrive here. You can plan and coordinate events such as weddings, pre-weddings, dowry payments (ruracio), corporate events, and parties. Successful event planners typically possess strong organizational skills, attention to detail, creativity, and the ability to handle multiple tasks simultaneously. Building a strong network of vendors, venues, and clients is crucial for success in the event planning industry.
- Why: High demand for professional event management for corporate and social events.
- What: Wedding planning, corporate event management, party supplies, or conference services.
- How: Provide comprehensive event solutions, from planning to execution.
20. Waste Management and Recycling
- Why: Growing environmental concerns and government initiatives for waste management.
- What: Recycling plants, waste collection services, or eco-friendly product manufacturing.
- How: Focus on sustainable practices and collaborate with local authorities and communities.
21. Cleaning Service:
Many people in Nairobi are looking for reliable cleaning services for their homes and offices. You can start a cleaning service that offers regular cleaning, deep cleaning, and other specialized services. Consider factors such as population density, demographics, and the number of households or businesses that may require cleaning services. Focus on delivering high-quality services and exceptional customer service to build a strong reputation in the neighborhood and generate repeat business and referrals.
22. A Fitness Center or Gym:
With an increased awareness of health and wellness, starting a fitness center in Nairobi is a great business idea. You can offer gym memberships (charged daily, weekly or monthly), personal training or coach, group classes such as aerobics. You can also sell items such as apparel, supplements, protein bars, water bottles, and equipment can boost your revenue stream. Other additional services such as massage therapy, nutrition counseling, or physical therapy within the gym premises can add value and generate extra income.
24. Boda Boda business
Boda boda business in Nairobi is one the most competitive but also lucrative business to operate in Nairobi Kenya, especially in the CBD. Unlike in the rural areas, boda bodas in Nairobi normally charge 3 to 10 times the normal rates, hence making greater profits. Getting a spot to do boda boda business in Nairobi is not easy, you can try by first joining a boda boda sacco, then talk to officials to help you get a spot.
25. Milk Shop
Milk is one of the products consumed nearly by all households in Nairobi, especially in the estates. If you can have a reliable source of fresh milk, daily, then you are good to go. A liter in most of the estates go for as high as 150 bob per litre.
Tips for Success:
- Market Research: Conduct thorough market research to understand demand and competition.
- Business Plan: Develop a solid business plan with clear goals and financial projections.
- Networking: Leverage Nairobi’s vibrant business community to build connections and partnerships.
- Regulations: Ensure compliance with local regulations and obtain necessary licenses.
- Customer Focus: Prioritize customer service and adapt your offerings based on feedback.
By choosing a business that aligns with market needs and leveraging Nairobi’s unique opportunities, you can build a successful and sustainable venture.
If you have a great business idea or plan that you want to start but don’t have enough capital, talk to us and we will help you learn new ways of generating business capital. At RG Sacco Ltd. we fund businesses with flexible loans of low interest rates of 1 percent per month. Click here to learn more about our loan products.
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