Starting an Electronics Repair Business in Kenya: Phone, Laptop, and TV Servicing Guide for 2026

In Kenya’s bustling urban centers like Nairobi, Mombasa, Kisumu, and Eldoret, broken phones, glitchy laptops, and faulty TVs are everyday realities. With millions of smartphones in use and increasing reliance on laptops for work and education, plus TVs as household staples, the demand for reliable repair services remains strong. Starting an electronics repair business—focusing on phone repair, laptop servicing, and TV repair—offers a practical, low-to-moderate entry path for youth, technicians, and entrepreneurs.

This venture not only generates income but also plays a vital role in reducing electronic waste (e-waste) by extending device lifespans and creates meaningful employment in a growing sector. In 2026, with rising smartphone penetration and government emphasis on circular economy principles, repair shops help keep gadgets out of landfills while providing jobs for skilled youth.

Why Start an Electronics Repair Business Now?

Kenya generates significant e-waste annually, much of it from discarded phones, laptops, and appliances. Repair businesses promote reuse and refurbishment, aligning with initiatives like those from the Electronic Waste Initiative Kenya (EWIK), which emphasize safe recycling, job creation for youth and women, and environmental protection. By fixing rather than replacing, you save customers money (repairs often cost 20–50% of new device prices) and reduce the environmental burden.

The business creates employment: one shop can employ 2–5 people (technicians, assistants, customer service), and skilled repairers often scale to multiple outlets or training roles. It’s hustle-friendly—many start small in kiosks or estates and grow through word-of-mouth.

Training Options: Building Your Skills

Hands-on expertise is essential—no shortcuts here.

• Short courses (3–6 months): Affordable and practical. Options include:
• Ramsis Technical Training College (Nairobi): 3-month Phone Repairs Technician course at ~KSh 30,000, with daily intakes and hardware focus.
• Sensei Institute: 3–6 month Phone Repair Technician programs (~KSh 25,000/month), covering diagnostics, screen replacement, and more.
• Inceptor Institute (Nairobi): Mobile Phone Repair and combined Laptop/TV courses, hands-on with flexible options.
• Visualdo Institute: Electronics Servicing certificates/diplomas (~KSh 10,000–13,000/month for 4–8 months), covering broader electronics.
• Other spots: ICS Technical College, Boltech Training Institute, or Kaelo Technical (modules in phone, laptop, TV, CCTV).
• Apprenticeships: Join established shops in Nairobi CBD (Tom Mboya Street, Biashara Street) or Mombasa for paid/on-the-job learning—often the fastest real-world path.
• Online/supplementary: Free resources like YouTube channels or Elevify’s certificate courses for basics, but combine with practical training.

Start with phone repair (highest demand), then expand to laptops and TVs.

Essential Tools and Equipment

Quality tools last longer and build credibility. Start basic and upgrade.

Core toolkit (~KSh 30,000–80,000 total):

• Precision screwdriver set (pentalobe, tri-wing for iPhones/others).
• Soldering iron/station (e.g., Gordak 952 for SMD work), solder wire, desoldering pump/wick.
• Digital multimeter, power supply/DC cables.
• Tweezers, spudgers, suction cups, opening picks.
• Magnifying lamp/microscope for close work.
• LCD testers, battery testers.
• Anti-static mat/wrist strap.
• Heat gun/hot air station for screen/battery replacements.
• Cleaning supplies (isopropyl alcohol, brushes).

For laptops/TVs: Add thermal paste, diagnostic software, oscilloscope (advanced), and larger workspace tools.

Source from Jumia, Glantix, Sangyug, or wholesale in Nairobi CBD—buy reputable brands (Jakemy, Kaisi) to avoid fakes.

Realistic Startup Costs in 2026

You can launch small and scale.

• Minimal start (kiosk/home-based, phone-focused): KSh 50,000–100,000.
• Tools/kit: KSh 30,000–50,000.
• Initial spare parts (screens, batteries, chargers): KSh 20,000–40,000.
• Small rent/deposit or mobile setup: KSh 10,000–20,000.
• Business permit/marketing: KSh 5,000–10,000.
• Standard shop (phone + laptop/TV): KSh 150,000–300,000+.
• Better tools/equipment: KSh 80,000+.
• Stock parts inventory: KSh 60,000–100,000.
• Shop rent (town center/estate): KSh 20,000–50,000 deposit + first months.
• Signage, display, working capital: KSh 30,000+.

Many succeed with KSh 50,000–200,000 by starting phone-only, reinvesting profits for expansion. Monthly profits can reach KSh 70,000–150,000+ in busy locations once established.

Building Customer Trust: Key Strategies

Trust turns one-time fixes into loyal clients and referrals.

• Offer warranties: 30–90 days on parts/labor (e.g., new screens, batteries).
• Be transparent: Explain issues, show before/after, provide written quotes.
• Use genuine parts: Avoid cheap fakes—customers notice quality.
• Professional setup: Clean workspace, branded signage, uniforms.
• Online presence: WhatsApp Business for bookings, Google My Business listing, Instagram/TikTok demos of fixes.
• Excellent service: Quick turnaround, fair pricing, polite communication.
• Certifications/badges: Display course certificates or join repair associations.

Collect reviews on Google or social media—happy customers share stories.

The Bigger Impact: Reducing E-Waste and Creating Jobs

Every repaired phone or laptop means less e-waste in dumpsites, conserving resources and cutting pollution. Kenya’s informal repair sector already extends thousands of devices’ lives yearly, supporting a circular economy.

These businesses employ youth in technical roles, offering self-employment or scalable ventures. With training programs growing, more Kenyans gain marketable skills, reducing unemployment while promoting sustainability.

Final Tips to Launch Successfully

1. Pick a high-traffic spot: Near markets, campuses, estates, or matatu stages.
2. Specialize first (e.g., iPhone/Android screens), then diversify.
3. Network: Join technician groups on Facebook/WhatsApp for tips/suppliers.
4. Stay updated: Follow new models/tech (e.g., foldables, chip-level fixes).
5. Go legal: Secure a single business permit from your county.

Starting an electronics repair business in Kenya is rewarding—practical skills meet real needs, profits grow with reputation, and you contribute to a greener, job-rich future. Grab your tools, get trained, and fix the future—one device at a time! 🚀

MRS. GARCÍA AND HER DAUGHTERS MONDAY 16TH FEBRUARY 2026 FULL EPISODE PART 1 AND PART 2 COMBINED