If you’re a business owner in Kenya looking to grow faster online, you’ve probably asked:
Should I advertise on Google Ads or Facebook Ads?
Both platforms are powerful, but they work very differently. Choosing the wrong one can waste money, while choosing the right one can bring consistent leads and sales.
This guide breaks it down clearly and practically for Kenyan brands.
Understanding the Core Difference
🔍 Google Ads: Demand-Based Marketing
Google Ads show your business to people who are actively searching for your product or service.
Example searches:
“Web design company in Nairobi”
“Solar installation services Kenya”
“Best lawyer in Mombasa”
These users already have intent to buy.
📱 Facebook Ads: Interest-Based Marketing
Facebook Ads show your ads to people based on:
Interests
Behavior
Demographics
Users are not searching — they are scrolling.
Facebook Ads are great for:
Brand awareness
Promotions
New product discovery
Google Ads: Pros and Cons for Kenyan Businesses
✅ Advantages
High buyer intent
Fast results
Excellent for services
Works well for local searches
Strong lead quality
❌ Disadvantages
Higher cost per click
Competitive keywords can be expensive
Requires proper keyword research
Best for:
Service-based businesses
Emergency or urgent services
B2B companies
Local professionals
Facebook Ads: Pros and Cons for Kenyan Businesses
✅ Advantages
Lower cost per reach
Powerful audience targeting
Great for visual products
Strong brand awareness
Excellent for retargeting
❌ Disadvantages
Lower buying intent
Requires strong creatives
Leads may need nurturing
Best for:
E-commerce
Events and promotions
New brands
Products with visual appeal
Cost Comparison in Kenya
While costs vary by industry:
Google Ads usually have higher CPC but better conversion rates
Facebook Ads are cheaper but require more follow-up
The real question is not cost — it’s return on investment (ROI).
Which Platform Works Better in Kenya?
Choose Google Ads If:
You offer professional or local services
Customers search for you on Google
You want ready-to-buy leads
You have a strong landing page
Choose Facebook Ads If:
You sell products
You want brand awareness
You are launching something new
You have engaging visuals
The Best Strategy: Use Both (Smartly)
Top-performing Kenyan brands don’t choose one — they combine both.
Winning Formula:
Google Ads capture high-intent customers
Facebook Ads build awareness and retarget visitors
Website converts traffic into sales
This creates a full customer journey.
Common Advertising Mistakes Kenyan Brands Make
Running ads without a website
Sending traffic to WhatsApp only
No tracking or analytics
Boosting posts instead of proper campaigns
Ads work best when supported by a strong website and strategy.
Final Verdict
There is no one-size-fits-all answer.
Google Ads = ready buyers
Facebook Ads = brand growth and reach
The best platform depends on your business goals, industry, and budget.
Need Help Running Ads?
At Blackbird Code Craft, we help Kenyan brands:
Choose the right ad platform
Set up high-converting campaigns
Design landing pages that convert
Track results and optimize ROI
📞 Talk to us today and make your ads work smarter, not harder.
