Selling deras in Kenya isn’t just a hustle for me—it’s a journey of patience, creativity, visibility, and discipline. When I had just one remaining dera last month, I felt like I had hit a wall. But by staying focused and strategic, I turned that one sale into a spark—and began building a more sustainable business, one decision at a time.
Selling Deras in Kenya: How I Grew from One Sale
That last dera took its time. I had posted it, shared it, even displayed it for my friends—but no luck. Finally, I approached a friend who runs a small shop. She agreed to take it and pay in kiidogo kiidogo—small daily payments across five days. That one act of faith on both our parts started everything.
But here’s the truth: after that sale, I didn’t have enough money to restock.
So I did what most hustling women do—I lobbied within my own budget. I cut back on other expenses, made some hard choices, and redirected part of my monthly spending towards the dera business. It wasn’t easy, especially when I’m also managing school fees and life expenses. But if I wanted to scale without taking loans, I had to self-fund—patiently and wisely.
The real test has been money discipline. I promised myself not to touch dera money unless it’s for restocking. That decision is shaping how I run this side hustle with seriousness.
Selling Deras in Kenya: Reinvesting With Patience and Purpose
From that reallocation, I managed to buy five deras. That was my seed capital. So far:
- I sold one to a lady at work
- I delivered another to the same shop friend, again on kiidogo kiidogo
- Then came a surprise call from a friend asking for help with SHA payments, who ended the call by asking if I still sell deras
She said she’d buy two this week. I followed up, sent photos via WhatsApp, and she replied that she’s on it. These moments keep me going—sales aren’t always instant, but when you’re consistent, people remember.
✨ Read my earlier dera journey here: How One Dera Taught Me to Keep Showing Up
Where I Sell My Deras: WhatsApp, Work, and Sunday Markets
I don’t have a physical shop—yet. But selling deras in Kenya doesn’t require a storefront. Here’s what I’m using:
- Work connections
- WhatsApp Status updates
- Word-of-mouth and referrals
- A trusted friend’s shop as a distribution point
Now I’m preparing to go to Sunday afternoon market days, which are ideal for clothes sales. This is the best time to:
- Engage potential customers
- Observe what styles are trending
- Pick affordable stock
The Sunday market is not just about selling—it’s about being seen.
Selling Deras in Kenya: My Target is 50
I’m now working towards raising Ksh 15,000 to buy at least 50 deras. My goal is to sell 15 within the first week using my existing channels plus the market push.
To scale smoothly, I’m preparing in small ways:
- Using affordable packaging options on Amazon for presentation
- Trying shipping labels in case I open up to delivery options
Lessons from Selling Deras in Kenya
1. Start Small, but Start
You don’t need a large capital injection. One dera taught me that progress is possible—just slower at first.
2. Budget With Intention
I had to make tough choices and delay other personal needs to create room for business growth. Every shilling counts when your goal is to reinvest.
3. Practice Ruthless Discipline
The real battle is internal. Every time I make a sale, I remind myself: “This money is not mine—it’s for restocking.” That discipline makes the difference.
4. Follow Up Like a Pro
People don’t always buy immediately. One of my current buyers remembered because I followed up. A nudge is not pestering—it’s persistence.
5. Visibility Is Key
I’m learning the importance of visibility. It’s not enough to have great products—people must see them. The more you show up, the more impact you make. Whether on WhatsApp, in the market, or through referrals, showing up consistently builds trust and reminds people you’re in business.
Can Sales Make You Rich in Kenya?
Yes—and no.
No, if you’re expecting fast money or easy returns.
Yes, if you’re willing to be consistent, strategic, and patient.
Sales give you control over your growth. If I can turn one dera into five, and five into fifty, that’s the beginning of scaling. With every sale, I’m sharpening business skills—negotiation, marketing, financial discipline, and visibility.
As this Entrepreneur article explains, sales is one of the best ways to build wealth—because it can grow with you.
📘 Want to dive deeper into small business growth? I recommend this beginner’s guide to selling products—especially useful if you’re starting with minimal capital like I did.
Final Thoughts: From One Dera, A Bigger Dream is Born
Selling deras in Kenya has taught me to manage money wisely, stay visible, build trust, and believe in the power of small beginnings. One dera became five. My dream now? 50 deras and a steady stream of income.
So, can sales make you rich? They can make you resourceful, resilient, and financially independent. And that’s where true wealth begins.
📩 Interested in a comfy, stylish dera—or just want to support my dream?
📲 WhatsApp me: 076011448
Let’s brighten your wardrobe—and my business—one dera at a time.
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