The 7 Types of Digital Marketing Explained (Kenyan Edition)
The 7 Types of Digital Marketing Explained (Kenyan Edition)
If you’re running a business in Kenya — whether it’s a mitumba shop in Gikomba or a tech startup in Westlands — one question keeps popping up:
“Which type of digital marketing should I focus on?”
The truth is, digital marketing in Kenya isn’t one-size-fits-all. It’s made up of different channels — each with its strengths.
Let’s break down the 7 types of digital marketing, how they work, and real examples of how Kenyan brands use them to grow.
1. Search Engine Optimization (SEO)
What it is:
Getting your website to rank higher on Google.
Why it matters in Kenya:
Most people Google “best real estate agency in Nairobi” or “M-Pesa integration for websites” before making a decision. If your site isn’t on page 1 — you’re invisible.
✅ Used by: Law firms, service businesses, bloggers
📘 Explore: Affordable SEO Services in Kenya
2. Content Marketing
What it is:
Creating valuable content (blogs, videos, guides) that attract and convert customers.
Kenyan example:
A beauty brand blogging about “How to care for natural hair in Nairobi’s dry season” — and ranking for that search.
✅ Used by: Personal brands, health & beauty, education platforms
📘 Read: How Blogging Boosts Website Traffic in Kenya
3. Social Media Marketing
What it is:
Using platforms like Instagram, Facebook, LinkedIn, and TikTok to build brand awareness and engagement.
Kenyan tip:
Instagram Reels + WhatsApp CTA = 🔥 for fashion and retail brands.
✅ Used by: Boutiques, influencers, restaurants, coaches
📘 Check Out: Social Media Management Services in Kenya
4. Pay-Per-Click Advertising (PPC)
What it is:
Running paid ads on Google, Facebook, Instagram, or TikTok. You only pay when someone clicks.
Kenyan reality:
Startups use Meta Ads to test product-market fit and Google Ads for service-based searches.
✅ Used by: Startups, ecommerce, agencies, events
📘 Read: SEO vs Ads — Which One Wins in Kenya?
5. Email Marketing
What it is:
Sending targeted messages to your email list — newsletters, offers, updates.
Why it works:
With AI tools and automation, you can turn visitors into leads, and leads into loyal customers.
✅ Used by: Online coaches, product launches, real estate, B2B agencies
📘 Explore: Content Strategy Services
6. Affiliate Marketing
What it is:
Earning commission by promoting someone else’s product/service.
Local twist:
Influencers promoting apps, courses, hosting, or payment solutions using affiliate links.
✅ Used by: Bloggers, YouTubers, tech creators
Elvis W. uses:
7. Influencer & Affiliate Partnerships
What it is:
Partnering with influencers, micro-creators, or brand ambassadors to push your message.
Kenyan context:
Even micro-influencers (2K–10K followers) are driving big results — especially on TikTok and LinkedIn.
✅ Used by: Fashion brands, online courses, fintech, skincare startups
Final Thoughts
Digital marketing in Kenya is booming — but only if you know which channel to use, when to use it, and how to make it convert.
Whether you’re launching a product, growing a brand, or entering the freelance space — understanding these 7 types of digital marketing gives you a serious edge.
👉 Ready to grow smarter, not harder?
Tera Creations is Kenya’s AI-powered digital marketing agency — here to help you design, optimize, and scale your brand online.
📩 Let’s Talk — and choose the digital mix that works best for you.