Many Kenyans have seen the potential of the digital world and its impact on online business in Kenya. How to successfully start an online business in Kenya is a topic of great concern; this article is here to show you the process.
The Internet is here to stay; it significantly influences our daily life and the business world. Kenya is the leading country in Africa regarding internet penetration, with 67% of Kenyans as internet users. These statistics show that Kenyan is a favorable market for an online business.
According to a study conducted by Mastercard on consumer spending, 4 out of 5 (79%) Kenyans have shopped more online since the beginning of the COVID 19 pandemic. Therefore the best time to start your online business in Kenya is now.
The online platform offers a bewildering array of possibilities, so you must be well-versed in the industry. These include affiliate marketing, blogs, thrift stores, and online shops. Here is how to start an online business.
Starting an online business in Kenya
1. Identify products or services to sell online
Your purpose as an online seller is to provide the customers with what they need—conduct market research to understand consumer needs and market gaps. Ensure you select a service or product that is in-demand and marketable.
2. Find your ideal customer
Do not merely assume that everyone is your target customer just because your business is online. You should know who and what your customers want by selecting a specific niche.
3. Develop a business plan
A business plan will help you strategically plan the expansion and growth of your business.
4. Choose your business name and register
The business name should be unique and not infringe existing trademarks. You will visit the e-citizen portal to register your online business in Kenya.
5. Register your domain name and hosting
A domain name is an address that directs customers to your website, for example, www.jumia.co.ke. Ensure your domain name is simple, memorable, and the same as your company name
6. Build a website and social media platforms
Customers should easily find you online. It is best to have a professional website. You can create a website yourself by using a non-coding option. You can hire a web designer if you don’t know how to create one.
7. Select your online payment plugins
Online businesses use digital payment processes because there is no physical contact between seller and buyer. In Kenya, there are several methods for accepting payments online. M-Pesa, credit cards, PesaPal, and PayPal, are among the most common payment methods.
8. Market and launch your online business
For a business to make its first sale, people must know it exists. Inform people on social media using a press release that you will launch your business on a particular day. This will ensure you make sales on your first day of launching your online business.
Read also, How to Start a Video Game Business in Kenya
Conclusion
Your online shop might take some time to be trusted and become famous. Implementing tactics to expand your organization is essential. It can entail making an effort to boost traffic to your website.
Increasing your presence across your most effective marketing platforms is another option. Online businesses in Kenya frequently market themselves on social media via paid adverts or sponsored content.