She is young, stylish, and a regular at some of Kitui’s most exclusive clubs and hotels. But Mary Mbithe (not her real name) is not your average socialite.
For months, many have speculated about her source of wealth, with some accusing her of sleeping with wealthy men to maintain her lavish lifestyle. However, in an exclusive interview with Channel 15 News, Mary has finally set the record straight—she makes her money by chatting with people online.

And the earnings? Enough to buy land and fund a luxurious lifestyle.
From Online Chats to Real Estate Investments
Despite her young age, Mary has already accomplished what many dream of. She recently bought a plot of land worth Ksh 700,000 in Katethyoka, a rapidly growing area in Kitui.

“I never thought I’d be able to buy land at my age, but here I am. This job has given me financial freedom,” she says confidently.
Her long-term vision? Building a mansion on the property, something she hopes to achieve in the coming years.

“I want a home of my own, and I’m working hard to make it happen.”
A High-End Lifestyle in Kitui Town
While investing in real estate, Mary is also enjoying the finer things in life. She currently rents an apartment in an upmarket estate in Kitui Town, where she pays Ksh 23,000 per month.
“I love my peace and comfort, and I can afford it,” she says.
Her earnings from paid chatting and live streaming allow her to not only pay for her expensive rent but also save, travel, and invest.
How She Makes Her Money
Mary revealed that her income comes from engaging with strangers on platforms that pay users to chat, flirt, and entertain clients online.

“Some men just want companionship. They pay per message, per minute, or send big tips when they like your company.”
For simple text chats, Mary makes between Ksh 150 to Ksh 500 per message. Video chat sessions can bring in as much as Ksh 2,000 per 15 minutes.
But the biggest earnings come from live streaming, where she interacts with an online audience that sends her virtual gifts that she later converts into real money. This brings her over Ksh 100,000 per month.

“With this job, I don’t have to struggle. I work at my own time and still make enough to live well and invest.”
Breaking Stereotypes
Mary knows that people still judge her, but she doesn’t let it bother her.
“Many think I’m being sponsored by men, but that’s not my business. Let them talk while I make money.”
Her goal? To keep growing her wealth and secure her future.
“I started small, but now I can afford things I never thought possible. This is just the beginning.”
Would You Try This Hustle?
With many young Kenyans struggling to find jobs, Mary’s story proves that opportunities exist online—if you know where to look.
