Updated April 16, 2025
In many parts of Africa today, economic hardship, inflation, and high unemployment rates have made it clear that relying on a single source of income simply isn’t enough. From students trying to support themselves through school to parents looking to make ends meet, and young professionals trying to build a future—they all share one common goal: to earn more money.
The beauty of side hustles is that they allow you to turn your free time, skills, or even hobbies into cash. With access to the internet, mobile banking, and growing demand for personalized services, Africans now have more opportunities than ever to earn additional income without necessarily quitting their day jobs.
But where should you begin? What kind of side hustles are actually worth your time—especially if you need cash quickly?
Let’s dive into some of the most practical, accessible, and profitable side hustles you can start right now.
1. Freelancing: Your Skills Are in Demand
You can start freelancing today if you can write, design, code, edit videos, transcribe audio, or manage social media accounts.
Freelancing means selling your skills to clients online, often through platforms like Upwork, Fiverr, or even Twitter and LinkedIn. And the best part? You can work for clients in the US, UK, or Europe—and earn in dollars or euros, which are often more valuable than local currencies.
For example, Blessing, a university graduate in Kenya, started offering content-writing services online. Within three months, she had three steady clients and was earning $400–$600 every month—more than what many full-time jobs offer locally.
Action Steps:
- Pick a skill you’re good at (or learn one for free on YouTube or Coursera).
- Set up a simple Fiverr or Upwork profile.
- Offer one clear service and ask your first client for a review—it helps build momentum.
2. Selling Digital Products
Imagine creating something once and getting paid for it over and over again. That’s the power of digital products. These can include eBooks, Notion planners, Canva templates, online courses, or design assets.
Once you upload them to a platform like Gumroad, Etsy, or Payhip, people can purchase them 24/7—even while you’re asleep.
For example, Tunde, a graphic designer in Lagos, created pre-made logo templates and uploaded them to Etsy. With just a little promotion on Twitter, he began making sales. Today, he earns an average of $250–$400/month in passive income.
Action Steps:
- Choose a niche (productivity, budgeting, design, etc.).
- Create something that solves a small problem.
- Use social media to share your product consistently.
3. Reselling on WhatsApp and Instagram
You don’t need a shop to start a retail business anymore. With just a smartphone, WhatsApp, and Instagram, you can buy products in bulk—like skincare, fashion items, or accessories—and resell them at a profit.
This method is perfect for people who have a large network or strong communication skills.
For example, Favour, a university student in Uganda, started reselling thrifted clothes via WhatsApp. She would post clear photos, take orders, and arrange delivery. In two weeks, she made UGX 300,000 profit.
Action Steps:
- Pick a product that solves a daily need.
- Partner with a supplier.
- Promote your items daily on WhatsApp Status and IG Stories.
4. Affiliate Marketing: Earn From Referrals
Affiliate marketing means promoting someone else’s product and earning a commission every time someone buys using your unique link. It’s perfect if you already post content or have an active online presence.
For example, Mary, a digital marketer in Ghana, signed up for a fintech affiliate program. She shares helpful posts about sending money abroad and earns ₵20–₵30 per person who signs up through her link.
Action Steps:
- Sign up for affiliate programs (e.g., Jumia, Konga, Paystack, Accrue).
- Talk about your experience genuinely.
- Add your link to your social bios, posts, or stories.
5. Private Tutoring: Turn Knowledge Into Income
Education remains a top priority in Africa. Parents are willing to pay for tutoring in subjects like Math, English, or Sciences—and even in newer areas like coding or digital literacy.
If you’re a strong communicator with deep knowledge in a subject, this is a great way to earn.
For example, Chinedu in Lagos began tutoring secondary school students in Mathematics after his NYSC. Today, he earns an extra ₦80,000–₦100,000/month, working just a few hours each weekend.
Action Steps:
- Decide your subject area.
- Offer a free session to get your first clients.
- Ask for referrals and testimonials to grow.
6. Delivery Services and Errand Running
With increasing online orders, people need help getting things delivered. If you own a bike or can partner with a dispatch company, you can run errands or deliver food, packages, and groceries.
For example, Peter in Nairobi joined Glovo part-time and delivers during lunch and dinner hours. He earns KES 1,500–2,000 daily.
Action Steps:
- Register with companies like Bolt Food, Glovo, or Jumia Food.
- Learn basic customer service.
- Be reliable and fast—good service brings repeat customers.
7. Cleaning or Laundry Services: Simple but Profitable
Many busy professionals are happy to pay for cleaning or laundry help—especially on weekends. With basic supplies and good service, this can become a stable side hustle.
For example, Grace in Accra began weekend house cleaning with just ₵50 in supplies. In her first month, she had 10 clients and began turning away new ones due to demand.
Action Steps:
- Offer services in offices or gated communities.
- Get gloves, detergents, and mops.
- Be trustworthy—one good job leads to many more.
8. Small Food Business
Food is one of the most recession-proof businesses. Selling puff puff, meatpie, juice, or even breakfast packs can bring in fast cash.
You don’t need to rent a shop—start from home and promote online.
For example, Adeola in Ibadan sells small chops for ₦3,000 per tray. Thanks to referrals, she now gets 10+ orders every week.
Action Steps:
- Pick a single food item you can make well.
- Get attractive packaging.
- Take quality photos and use Instagram or WhatsApp to promote.
9. Event Staffing or Rentals
Event planners are always looking for reliable staff: ushers, MCs, decorators, DJs, and logistics support. If you have capital, you can also rent out equipment like chairs, speakers, or tents.
For example, Musa in Abuja invested in plastic chairs and began renting them out for ₦200/chair. His first event gave him almost ₦20,000 profit in one day.
Action Steps:
- Partner with event planners.
- Offer reliability, neatness, and good communication.
- If renting items, store them well to reduce damage.
10. Babysitting or Pet Sitting
This might sound simple, but busy families are often looking for trusted hands to help during weekends or holidays.
If you love kids or animals and have a calm, responsible nature, this could be the perfect fit.
For example, Sarah in Johannesburg offers weekend babysitting for R500. She now has three regular families who book her every month.
Action Steps:
- Start with neighbors or family friends.
- Set clear boundaries and communicate openly.
- Always arrive early and leave a good impression.
The Hustle Is Real, but So Are the Rewards
The journey to financial freedom begins with one small step. Whether you’re trying to cover urgent bills, save for a dream, or simply get out of survival mode, a side hustle can be your stepping stone.
What matters most is not how fancy your hustle looks but how consistently and professionally you do it. People pay for value—and if you deliver value, you will always find buyers.
So, start where you are. Use what you have. And trust that the little you begin with today could become something much bigger tomorrow.
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