Best Side Business Ideas for Africans Living Abroad
Many Africans abroad run a side business: food, hair, imports, events, consulting. Which ideas actually work, and what do you need to set one up legally?
Helpful resources: Getting paid by clients abroad? See banking and credit-building tools on our Resources page.
Tokunbo Central’s answer: these side businesses come up most often, with what people say makes them work.
- Food and catering: small chops, party jollof, meal prep. Check food hygiene registration and kitchen rules before selling.
- Hair and beauty: braiding, wigs and natural hair care are in constant demand. Some places require a licence or insurance.
- African groceries and imports: spices, fabrics, Ankara and beauty products. Learn import rules and food labelling first.
- Events: decoration, MC, DJ, photography and aso ebi coordination.
- Professional services: tutoring, bookkeeping, tax help, CV writing, IT support and consulting.
- Online business: content creation, digital products and e-commerce.
- Do it right: check your visa allows self-employment, register the business, keep records and pay tax.
- Get found: list your business free in the Tokunbo Directory so the community can find and recommend you.
Your turn: what side business are you running abroad, and what was the hardest part of starting?
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