Articles · Ecommerce · 6 min read
WooCommerce vs Shopify for Kenyan stores
By Ken Murithi · 22 February 2026
Both can run a good store, but they suit different businesses. The decision usually comes down to payments, monthly cost and how much control you want.
Payments and M-Pesa
WooCommerce integrates directly with M-Pesa Daraja, so STK push at checkout feels native and the fees stay low. Shopify supports M-Pesa through third parties, which can add cost and friction. For a store selling mainly to Kenyans, this matters a lot.
Cost over time
Shopify charges a monthly subscription and, on many plans, a cut of each sale. WooCommerce has no subscription, you pay for hosting and any premium extensions. For a growing store, that difference adds up.
Control
WooCommerce is open, so almost anything can be customised: wholesale pricing, unusual delivery rules, custom checkout logic. Shopify is more locked down, which is simpler but limits you when your business does not fit the standard mould.
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