Table of Contents
1.Introduction
You might be just like I was when I first started.
Back then, I didn’t have a laptop — I was using a simple Pixel 3a phone. It was hard to work on such a small screen, and sometimes I felt lazy and discouraged. But what kept me going was patience, knowing what I wanted, and refusing to give up.
I didn’t have much information. I kept trying and failing. Sometimes I even fell into scams because I didn’t know any better. It was tough.
That’s why I want to help you — so that you don’t go through the same struggles I went through.
We all dream of doing work that we enjoy — something that gives us peace of mind. And just the fact that you’re searching and reading this means you’re already on the right path. Wanting is the first sign of ability.
I remember starting during a very difficult time. I was living far from the city. To get a stable internet connection, I had to walk to a small hill near our village just to get a signal.
Most of the remote work I did happened at night — because that’s when the internet was fastest.
But I kept going.
And now, I want to tell you: You can start too — even if all you have is a phone or a basic laptop.
In this guide, I’ll walk you through simple, real steps to start working online, no matter where you live or what you have right now.
2. What Is Remote Work?
Remote work means doing a job from home or from anywhere—without going to an office. You just need a phone or computer and an internet connection. You can work for a company, a client, or even for yourself.
There are many types of remote jobs you can do, depending on your skills and what you enjoy. Some examples include
- Writing or typing jobs
- Graphic design (like making posters or logos)
- Teaching English or helping people online
- Social media management
- Translation or transcription (writing what you hear)
- Simple online tasks like clicking, testing apps, or filling forms
The good thing is, you don’t need to be an expert to start. I know may african people are already working online in these ways—even from remote villages—and you can too.
3. What You Need to Get Started
You don’t need a lot of money or expensive tools to start working online. In fact, many people begin with just the basics.
Here’s what you really need:
A Smartphone
If you have a smartphone, you already have what many people are using to do online jobs. You don’t need a laptop right away. but if you have laptop good.
Internet Access
You need a little data or Wi-Fi to get online. Some jobs don’t use much internet. You can even download tasks and do them offline.
Basic English or Communication Skills
Most online jobs need you to understand and follow instructions in English. Don’t worry if your English is not perfect—you can improve as you go.
A Quiet Space (if possible)
It helps to find a quiet place where you can focus, even for one hour a day. It could be in your room, at a local center, or under a tree with good network!
Willingness to Learn
This is the most important. You must be open to learning new things. Even if you’ve never worked online before, you can learn step by step.
4. Free and Easy Digital Skills to Learn
Before you can start most online jobs, you need some basic digital skills. The good news is, you don’t need to go to university or pay for expensive courses. There are many free ways to learn from your phone—even with small internet bundles.
Here are some simple skills you can start with:
1. Typing and Basic Computer Skills
Learn how to:
- Type quickly and correctly
- Use Google Docs or Microsoft Word
- Save and share files
Where to learn:
Search on YouTube: “How to type fast on your phone”
Try websites like typingclub.com
2. Graphic Design with Your Phone
You can learn to create simple posters, flyers, and social media posts using free tools.
Tool: Canva (free app or website)
Learn on YouTube: “How to use Canva on your phone”
3. Writing and Communication
This helps if you want to do jobs like writing blog posts, answering customer messages, or helping online shops.
Practice by:
- Writing a short article or story every day
- Reading and correcting your own work
- Using a free tool like Grammarly.com to improve
4. Using Social Media for Work
Many businesses need people to help manage their Facebook, Instagram, or TikTok pages. You can learn how to do that.
Learn on YouTube: “How to manage a business Facebook page”
Practice with your own accounts.
Where to Learn Free
Here are free websites that teach digital skills:
- YouTube—Search any topic and learn with videos
- Coursera.org—Offers free courses (choose “audit for free”)
- ALX Africa—Offers free tech programs in many African countries
- GOMYCODE—Teaches coding & tech (some free lessons)
TIP: Don’t try to learn everything at once. Pick one skill and try it.
5. Where to Find Real Online Jobs That Accept Africans
Once you learn a basic skill, the next step is to find a real online job. Many websites and platforms are open to people from across Africa, but it’s important to know where to look and how to avoid scams.
Here are some trusted websites where you can start:
1. Upwork
This is one of the largest platforms for freelancers. You can find jobs like writing, design, data entry, customer support, and more.
To get started, create a profile, list your skills, and apply for small jobs.
Website: www.upwork.com
2. Fiverr
Fiverr allows you to create a service (called a “gig”) and wait for clients to hire you. For example, you can create a gig that says “I will design a logo” or “I will write an article.”
It’s good for people with creative or writing skills.
Website: www.fiverr.com
3. Remotasks
This platform offers small tasks like labeling images, audio transcription, and more. It’s beginner-friendly, and you can work from your phone.
You need to take a short training before you start earning.
Website: www.remotasks.com
4. Appen
Appen provides small digital jobs such as data collection, voice recordings, and simple testing tasks. They often accept workers from African countries.
Website: www.appen.com
5. Microworkers
This site pays you to do very small online tasks, like testing apps, writing short reviews, or clicking links. It doesn’t pay much, but it’s good for beginners.
Website: www.microworkers.com
Tips for Applying:
- Be honest about your skills
- Start with small, simple jobs
- Take your time to read instructions clearly
- Keep learning and improving as you work
Warning: Avoid Scams
If a website asks you to pay money to get a job, be careful. Most real platforms are free to join.
Never share your personal information with strangers you don’t trust online.
6. How to Work Effectively Using Just Your Phone
Many people think they need a laptop to start working online. But the truth is, your smartphone is a powerful tool. You can use it to learn skills, apply for jobs, and even complete tasks—if you use it the right way.
Here are some tips to help you work well using just your phone:
Choose the Right Apps
Most major freelancing websites like Upwork, Fiverr, and Remotasks have mobile apps you can install. You can also use apps like:
- Google Docs—to write or edit text
- Canva—to design posters, logos, and social media images
- Gmail—to send and receive job-related emails
- WhatsApp—to communicate with clients and find job groups
Use Your Data Wisely
Online work doesn’t always need a lot of data. To save your internet:
- Download tasks or videos when you have Wi-Fi, then work offline
- Turn off auto-play on YouTube or social media
- Use text-based apps more than video apps when possible
Keep Your Work Organized
Create folders in your phone to keep files, documents, and job tasks easy to find.
Use a simple notebook or notes app to track your daily work, logins, and deadlines.
Create a Daily Routine
Try to set a time each day to check jobs or complete tasks. Even one hour a day can make a big difference if you stay consistent.
Protect Your Phone
Since your phone is your work tool, take care of it. Use a screen lock, don’t download strange apps, and always back up important files (you can use Google Drive for free). Remember, many people across Africa are already working online with just their smartphones. It’s not easy at first, but with practice and patience, it works
7. Common Challenges and How to Overcome Them
Starting to work online is not always easy. Many people across Africa face real problems like slow internet, no laptop, or even doubts from friends and family. But these challenges don’t mean you should give up. Let’s look at the most common struggles and how to deal with them.
Challenge 1: Slow or Expensive Internet
In many places, data is costly or the connection is poor. This can make it hard to watch videos or finish online tasks.
What to do:
- Use free Wi-Fi where possible (cyber cafés, schools, churches, etc.)
- Download learning videos to watch offline
- Choose jobs or tasks that don’t need much data (like writing or small microtasks)
Challenge 2: No Laptop
Most people starting out don’t own a computer, and that’s okay.
What to do:
- Use your smartphone — many platforms work well on mobile
- Focus on mobile-friendly skills like writing, voice tasks, or basic design
- If possible, save up slowly and plan to buy a used laptop later
Challenge 3: Distractions at Home
Working from home can be hard when there are people around or many things pulling your attention.
What to do:
- Set a small time daily (even 60 minutes) just for learning or working
- Find a quiet spot if you can — even outdoors if it’s safe
- Use earphones or write down your tasks to stay focused
Challenge 4: Fear and Doubt
Sometimes the biggest challenge is believing you can actually succeed.
What to do:
- Start small—even earning $5 online can grow into more
- Talk to others who are doing online work and learn from them
- Remind yourself: many Africans are doing this with less—and so can you
Challenge 5: Scams and Fake Promises
There are people online who try to take your money or waste your time.
What to do:
- Never pay to get a job
- Avoid “get rich quick” promises
- Stick to trusted platforms like Upwork, Fiverr, and Appen
The truth is, there will be hard days. But if you stay consistent, keep learning, and take it one step at a time, remote work can change your life — just like it has for many others.
8. Real Success Stories (From Africans Like You)
Sometimes it helps to hear that other people — just like you — have made it. These are not rich people or tech experts. They’re everyday Africans who started small and found real ways to earn online.
Amina – Kenya
Amina lives in a small town near Kisumu. She started doing online transcription work using just her phone and borrowed internet. After two months of training and practice, she began earning enough to support her younger sister in school.
Peter – Nigeria
Peter heard about Fiverr from a friend and started offering simple writing services. His first job paid $10. Today, he earns between $100–$300 per month — all from his small room in rural Nigeria.
Claris – Cameroon
Claris didn’t have a laptop, but she had faith. She learned how to design posters on Canva using her phone. Now she helps small businesses create social media content and even teaches others online. These are just a few examples. Their stories prove that remote work is not only real — it’s possible for anyone, anywhere in Africa.
9. Conclusion & Next Steps
If you’ve read this far, then you already have something powerful — the desire to grow.
You don’t need to be perfect. You just need to begin.
Start with what you have:
- A phone
- A little internet
- A heart willing to learn
Learn a skill. Practice it. Try one platform. Apply for one job. Fail, try again, improve — and you will grow. You are not alone. Many across Africa are walking the same journey. And now, you’re one of them.
What to Do Next:
- Read the Start Here section on this website
- Choose one skill to learn this week
- Join our free Facebook page for support
- Share this guide with someone who needs hope
Your story is just beginning. And it starts now.
I’m Branche De Jesus UMUTONI, founder of Remote Africa Life — a digital space where faith, resilience, and remote work meet. After turning challenges into opportunities, I now help others find courage to follow their calling and create a life they love. Join me on this journey of purpose and possibility.
