TL;DR:
Writing is talent. Publishing is strategy. These tools help East African writers move from dream to global stage—writing smarter, designing better, and distributing farther. With the right digital tools, your stories can reach readers anywhere in the world.
Welcome to 10 Best Tools for East African Writers. I don’t assume you already know what these tools are, but as an author—especially a self-published one—I believe in sharing knowledge to make the writing journey easier.
That’s why I created this blog function on John Shalom: to equip you with practical insights through posts, e-books, e-courses, and e-services, including live WhatsApp chat.
FAQs: Best Tools for East African Writers
1. What are the best writing tools for East African authors?
Top tools include Scrivener for drafting, Grammarly for editing, and Google Docs for easy collaboration.
2. How can writers design professional book covers?
Use Canva or Adobe InDesign to create covers that capture attention and match your book’s tone and genre.
3. What platforms help writers publish globally?
Amazon KDP, Draft2Digital, and PublishDrive allow East African authors to distribute ebooks and paperbacks worldwide.
4. How can writers promote their books internationally?
Social media tools like Buffer or Later help schedule posts, while Author Central and Goodreads boost online visibility.
5. Are there communities supporting African writers?
Yes. Platforms like Wattpad and African Books Collective connect authors with global readers and offer valuable exposure.
1. Your Mind: Your Soul
The #1 best tool any writer can have is a positive and focused mind. What you feed your mind—through what you read, see, and hear—becomes who you are. Just as we become what we eat physically, we also become what we consume mentally and spiritually.
These 10 tools won’t help if you don’t already have the right foundation: a growth mindset. I believe in doing, not just knowing. Head knowledge is potential power—it only becomes power when acted upon.
To stay focused, I personally follow four personal rules daily, weekly, monthly, and yearly. You too need a personal system. Rules may feel restrictive, but without them, freedom quickly turns into bondage.
2. A Working Computer
As a writer, you need a reliable computer. It doesn’t have to be the most expensive, but it should get the job done. A computer is a multipurpose machine that allows you to write, edit, publish, and communicate.
I still remember when I had no computer and had to borrow friends’ machines just to complete assignments. Eventually, I made it a priority to get one of my own. Today, no serious writer can succeed without this tool.
3. Word Processing Software
A computer without software is just hardware. You need a word processor like Microsoft Word, OpenOffice, or Google Docs. These tools make writing, editing, and formatting possible.
Personally, I still use Word 2007 and even wrote a full e-book on how to maximize its features. Newer versions are available, but be careful with pirated software. Use genuine tools—you’ll save yourself future headaches.
4. An Effective Internet Connection
In today’s digital world, a writer without internet access is like a farmer without seeds. A strong internet connection helps you share your work, connect with readers, and join global conversations.
As an author, you are already a global entrepreneur. Someone, somewhere needs your words. That’s why I enabled WhatsApp chat on this site—to help my growing community connect instantly. Even starting a free WordPress.com blog can give you visibility.
5. Book Publishing Platforms
If you want your words to reach the world, you must embrace publishing platforms. For me, Amazon’s Kindle Direct Publishing (KDP) is the #1 choice. Smashwords (by Mark Coker) is another great option.
I moved my books from CreateSpace to KDP in 2016, anticipating Amazon’s eventual merger of the two systems. Today, KDP dominates self-publishing.
But don’t forget: you can also sell e-books right here on John Shalom by becoming a vendor. Simply create a free account, upload your book, and after approval, your work will be live on your personal store.
You might also like: Self-Publishing Made Simple: From Manuscript to Marketplace
6. An Effective Online Payment System
To receive income as a writer, you need a trusted payment system. PayPal has long been the default option, but it comes with challenges in Africa. Equity Bank in Kenya allows withdrawals from PayPal, and PayPal-to-M-Pesa is another alternative—though account names must match exactly.
Personally, I’ve faced issues with PayPal limitations. My $93.69 has been stuck since 2016! Some freelancers are exploring alternatives like Skrill. Maybe one day, we’ll even create our own KenyaPal.
7. Writers’ Groups
Writing can feel lonely, but you don’t have to walk the journey alone. Join writers’ groups like Writers Guild Kenya to share knowledge, polish your craft, and network.
Be cautious, though. Many groups in Africa drift into politics instead of focusing on writing. Choose communities that encourage creativity, accountability, and growth. Both online and offline groups can be helpful, as long as you also contribute your knowledge.
8. An Author Online Platform
Every serious writer should have a personal website or blog. Think of it as your online bookshop—a platform where readers can always find you.
I built John Shalom with this belief: what I carry within me is valuable, not just for East Africa, but for the whole world. Your platform gives you authority, visibility, and a way to connect directly with your audience.
9. Google Search
Never underestimate the power of Google Search. From articles and tutorials to images and courses, this free tool puts global knowledge at your fingertips.
When I wanted to build my own e-commerce website in 2017, I had no idea how. So I asked Google—and today, here we are. As a writer, you’ll constantly need answers, and Google remains your best starting point.
10. Online Free Courses
Finally, take advantage of free online learning platforms like Alison.com. These sites offer valuable courses, some even with free certificates.
The internet isn’t just a cloud; it’s powered by real people sharing real knowledge. I’m one of them. This post was written by me, a living author you can chat with on WhatsApp through this site.
Information is everywhere—you just need the curiosity to look.
Conclusion
These are the 10 Best Tools for East African Writers. From your mind to online courses, each tool matters—but only if you use it. Writing is both art and business. Equip yourself, stay focused, and connect with the world.
Thanks for reading!
