As a full-stack developer working with businesses, startups, and creators, one of the questions I get asked often is:
“What tools do you use to build your projects?”

In this post, I’ll share my current tech stack in 2025, the tools I rely on daily, and why I choose them — based on real client needs and performance.

💻 1. Frameworks & Languages

• Laravel – My go-to PHP framework for complex backends and full-stack apps (e.g., DoMyStudy, WritersAdmin). Clean, secure, and highly extendable.
• Next.js – Ideal for fast, SEO-friendly React-based frontends and hybrid web apps (like modern portfolio sites).
• JavaScript/TypeScript – I use both in frontend work and APIs, especially for dynamic UIs and validation.
• WordPress – For fast-launch content sites, e-commerce, and when clients need a visual editor (e.g., Madukani.co.ke).

🎨 2. Frontend Tools

• Tailwind CSS – Lightweight, utility-first CSS framework I use in almost all Laravel and React projects.
• Bootstrap – Still useful for quick layouts, especially in admin panels.
• Vite – My preferred tool for fast asset bundling and live reloads (especially with Laravel).

🗃️ 3. Databases & Storage

• MySQL – Primary relational database across all major apps.
• MongoDB – Used in projects that require flexible document structures.
• Firebase – For lightweight mobile apps and real-time features like chat or push notifications.

💵 4. Payments & Integrations

• M-PESA (Daraja API) – Essential for Kenyan businesses. I've used it in platforms like BookFast, FungaDeal, and WritersAdmin.
• Stripe & PayPal – Great for international payments and SaaS billing flows.
• Flutterwave & Paystack – For pan-African e-commerce and service platforms.

🧩 5. Other Tools I Love

• Postman – For API testing and documentation.
• Git & GitHub – Version control and collaboration.
• Figma – For UI design and sharing mockups with clients.
• VS Code – My daily development environment with extensions for Laravel, Tailwind, and React.
• Cloud Hosting (HostPinnacle, Vercel, cPanel) – Depending on the project size and complexity.

🔍 Bonus: What I Avoid in 2025

• Bloated WordPress themes – Slows down performance.
• Unsecure payment scripts – Always use official SDKs or APIs.
• Cheap hosting – Leads to downtime and poor UX. I only use reliable hosts.

✅ Final Thoughts

A solid tech stack is more than just tools — it’s about choosing the right ones for the project, the client, and the users. In 2025, my stack helps me deliver fast, secure, and scalable platforms that work — especially in the Kenyan and African context.

Want to build something with this stack? Let’s talk. Contact me here or browse my portfolio at davidmboya.com.