Social media is no longer just for scrolling and sharing memes. In Kenya, TikTok is becoming an e-commerce platform, especially among the youth. With the introduction of TikTok Shops, Kenyans are now buying and selling products within the app.

What Are TikTok Shops?

TikTok Shops allow creators and businesses to sell products directly from their TikTok profiles and videos. You can:

  • Tag products in your content

  • Link to products in the in-app store

  • Buy products without leaving TikTok

This has turned casual browsing into impulse buying – all in one place.

Why TikTok Shopping Is Trending in Kenya

Several factors are driving this:

  • Young audience: TikTok has millions of Gen Z and millennial users in Kenya

  • Video-based marketing: Short videos feel more authentic than traditional ads

  • Affordable products: Fashion, beauty and home items under KSh 1000 are popular

  • Creative sellers: Small businesses are using viral challenges and influencers to drive sales

What’s Being Sold on TikTok in Kenya

  • Phone accessories (ring lights, earbuds, power banks)

  • Makeup and skincare products

  • Trendy clothes and sneakers

  • Decor items and kitchen hacks

  • Digital services like graphic design or phone customization

How Kenyan Sellers Are Using TikTok Creatively

Some smart tactics we’ve seen from Kenyan TikTok sellers include:

  • Posting live demos of their products in action

  • Jumping on trending sounds to showcase their stock

  • Using local slang and humor to connect with followers

  • Sharing customer feedback and packaging processes

Challenges for TikTok Sellers in Kenya

Despite the hype, it’s not all smooth sailing:

  • Lack of integrated payment and delivery systems

  • Many transactions still rely on DMs and M-Pesa

  • Concerns about scam accounts and fake products

  • Content moderation issues – some accounts get flagged or banned

TikTok has shown interest in expanding its official Shop feature to Africa, which could change the game.

Tips for Kenyan Businesses Looking to Sell on TikTok

  • Use popular hashtags like #TikTokMadeMeBuyIt or #KenyaTikTokShop

  • Keep videos short, fun and visually engaging

  • Collaborate with micro-influencers

  • Respond quickly to comments and messages

  • Always include pricing and delivery info clearly

Final thoughts

Jumia and Kilimall are facing stiff competition, TikTok is the new market for Gen Z. If you’re a small business, this is your chance to go viral – and make money while at it.

Stay tuned. TikTok Shops is coming for Kenya.