A landmark policy toolkit has been launched in Nairobi today, signaling a new chapter for Kenya’s digital economy.
Developed through a collaboration between the Mastercard Foundation, eMobilis Technology Institute, and Africa Practice, the toolkit titled “A Policy Guide for Digital Economy Progress” sets a clear roadmap for transforming the country’s gig economy. It aims to reform the sector and ensure more equitable, sustainable conditions for over one million workers and businesses.
The gig economy has become a key pillar of Kenya’s digital landscape, with over 1.2 million workers currently employed, contributing significantly to the country’s GDP. Since its formal recognition under Kenya Vision 2030, the sector’s value has surged, now estimated at USD 109 million annually. However, while gig work has opened new opportunities, it remains plagued by issues like limited legal protections, algorithmic bias on global platforms, and inadequate wage safeguards.
The newly unveiled policy toolkit seeks to address these gaps and propel Kenya’s digital workforce into a future defined by fairness and inclusivity. Featuring a systems-change approach, the guide proposes actionable reforms designed to enhance labour protections and foster a business-friendly environment for digital platforms and business-process-outsourcing enterprises.
Notably, it includes recommendations for creating a tripartite industry forum to set standards, developing a gig worker registration platform, and updating existing laws to reflect the unique needs of the gig workforce.
Ken Mwenda, Managing Director and Co-founder of eMobilis Technology Institute, expressed optimism about the toolkit’s potential impact. “As leaders in digital skills training, we witness daily the power of Kenya’s gig economy to transform lives. This guide offers a comprehensive pathway to unlock even more opportunities for workers while providing businesses the confidence to invest in this dynamic sector,” said Mwenda.
The development of the policy guide involved extensive engagement with over 190 stakeholders, including gig workers, job providers, and policymakers. Their input was crucial in shaping the toolkit’s recommendations, ensuring it reflects the realities and aspirations of those most affected by the gig economy’s growth.
“This toolkit marks a significant step towards building a resilient and inclusive digital ecosystem in Kenya,” stated Richard Kiplagat, Managing Director of East Africa and Group Chief Commercial Officer at Africa Practice. “By closing regulatory gaps and prioritizing worker protections, we aim to create a fair environment where Kenya’s young talent can thrive and compete globally.”
Key proposals in the toolkit include legal reforms to the Employment Act 2007, expanded social protections, and the establishment of special economic zones tailored to the international nature of gig work. These changes are intended to bolster wage protections, enhance occupational health and safety measures, and promote dignified working conditions across the sector.
The launch event drew a diverse crowd, including policymakers, industry leaders, gig workers, and media representatives, all eager to discuss the toolkit’s potential to drive meaningful change. As implementation moves forward, stakeholders from across the digital economy are expected to collaborate in turning these policy recommendations into actionable outcomes.
With its comprehensive strategy and emphasis on sustainable growth, “A Policy Guide for Digital Economy Progress” positions Kenya to become a global leader in the gig economy. The initiative is seen as a catalyst for economic prosperity, fostering innovation and creating pathways for millions of Kenyans to benefit from the digital revolutionary.