Levelling Up Kenya’s Gig Workforce Through GIZ’S Gig Economy Initiative: A Success Story

Levelling Up Kenya’s Gig Workforce Through GIZ’S Gig Economy Initiative: A Success Story

The gig economy has expanded rapidly, both globally and in Kenya, fueled by technological innovations and changing workforce dynamics. Globally, the gig economy is projected to generate nearly $500 billion by 2024, demonstrating its significant economic impact​ (33rd Square). In Kenya, the gig economy is also gaining traction, particularly among the youth. The country’s online gig economy is currently valued at $109 million, employing approximately 36,573 gig workers, and is expected to grow at an annual rate of 33%. By 2023, it was projected to reach $345 million, with 93,875 workers involved​ (according to NextBillion and the Business Daily Africa).

This growth has been driven by increased mobile and internet penetration, along with Kenya’s rapidly growing youth population, 84% of whom are unemployed​. Platforms like ride-hailing apps and freelancing websites are becoming prominent sources of income. However, gig workers face challenges such as low wages and stiff competition, underlining the urgent need for upskilling initiatives.

This reality underscores the importance of upskilling Kenya’s gig workforce, a need that Digital Opportunity Trust (DOT) Kenya addressed through the Dissemination of Gig Workers’ Courses and Scaling of the Mentorship Programme, in partnership with Deutsche Gesellschaft für Internationale Zusammenarbeit (GIZ). The initiative was designed to equip Kenyan gig workers with the skills they need to succeed in this fast-evolving sector, providing essential tools for navigating the competitive gig economy.

Between March and September 2024, this transformative initiative reached 2,631 gig workers across Kenya, equipping them with the skills and knowledge necessary to thrive in the ever-competitive gig economy. Here, we highlight the programme’s impact, drawing from testimonials that showcase the initiative’s success.

Enhanced Skills and Knowledge Among Gig Workers

The gig economy, while promising, is not without its hurdles. To stand out and secure sustainable income, workers need more than just a presence on digital platforms-they require skills that will set them apart. Recognizing this, the programme launched the Skills Trio and Skills4Riders courses on Atingi, an online platform offering gig workers free access to training in essential digital, financial, and soft skills.

One participant, Franklin Mukolwe, shared how this programme empowered him:

“I am elated to share that I have successfully completed the ‘Digital Skills’ course on atingi.org courtesy of Digital Opportunity Trust (DOT) Kenya and Deutsche Gesellschaft für Internationale Zusammenarbeit (GIZ) GmbH. The course has equipped me with essential digital skills relevant for platform work. This will improve my productivity and content creation both in and out of the classroom.”

For gig workers like Janeshyleen Gatua, the courses opened up new career paths:

“I was able to utilise the Atingi courses which helped me gain new skills in Digital and Social Media Marketing. I’m currently undergoing a coaching session to become a social media manager.”

Peter Rawlings, another participant, appreciated the newfound awareness of the gig economy’s dynamics:

“Before I didn’t have the full knowledge of the power of what the gig economy had, but right now I am aware of the rights of an online worker and how to navigate through my activities as a gig worker.”

Through these courses, participants have gained valuable skills that enhance their marketability and competitiveness in the gig economy, allowing them to secure better-paying gigs and develop their careers in a digital-first world.

Leveraged Peer Learning for Online Freelancing Training Success

Building on the success of digital skills training, the programme also extended to Online Freelancing Training, which provided participants with the knowledge needed to navigate various freelancing platforms. Delivered through hybrid workshops and online webinars, these sessions connected gig workers with industry experts who shared insights on client management, market research, and niche development.

One such participant, Lina Mwakitawa, reflected on her experience:

“It was an amazing opportunity to learn more about online freelancing and how to navigate different freelancing sites to earn money. Some key takeaways I got from the sessions include: communicating effectively with clients; prioritising self-care; using a professional tone when dealing with clients; conducting market research when setting payment and identifying your niche.”

For trainers like Isaiah Oyugi, this programme was an opportunity to share his expertise and build his own capacity as a trainer:

“This was my first time training on this subject so extensively. The training of trainers sessions built my capacity and empowered me to include online freelancing training as part of my offerings in my coaching career. The support from DOT Kenya helped build my confidence during the programme.”

Joan Nabusoba, a trainer, highlighted the value this programme added to her work:

“As a program director at Pwani Teknowgalz, I was always puzzled on ways to add value to the impactful skills these young women have. Although we did the gig economy part after our digital trainings, they weren’t as extensive as what we did in partnership with DOT Kenya. This opportunity empowered me to give impactful gig economy skills to our young women, who direly need it for their economic sustainability.”

Through peer learning and freelancing workshops, participants gained critical skills that allowed them to confidently enter the freelancing world, unlocking income-generating opportunities.

Supported and Empowered Women Gig Workers Through Mentorship

Despite the increasing involvement of women in the gig economy, many remain at a disadvantage, lacking the mentorship and support needed to succeed. To bridge this gap, the Mentorship Programme focused on linking aspiring gig workers, especially women, with experienced mentors in the field. Through this initiative, women were able to access tailored guidance to enhance their technical skills, build confidence, and navigate challenges unique to their circumstances.

Lydia Nyambura, a mentee, expressed her gratitude:

“The programme provided targeted training to enhance my digital and entrepreneurial skills. This includes learning how to leverage digital tools for freelancing, understanding market trends, and improving my ability to deliver quality services in a competitive environment.”

Janeshyleen Gatua, another mentee, shared how her mentor helped her:

“My mentor supported me in realising my strengths and career growth. I was able to do a course in Digital and Social Media Marketing from Atingi. I’m currently building my career in Digital Marketing and my goal is to become a Social Media Manager as well as the owner of a Digital Marketing agency.”

For mentors like Elisha Awiti Matanga, the experience was just as rewarding:

“Mentoring allowed me to help mentees tackle real-world challenges and improve their skills. This experience has been incredibly rewarding and has strengthened my leadership and communication abilities.”

Martha Mumbua, another mentee, highlighted the value of the skills gained:

“I gained a lot of knowledge on the skills needed and how to start digital marketing.”

The programme had a ripple effect, impacting not only the mentees but also the mentors, who gained personal and professional growth through their roles. Dyes Junior, a web development mentor, shared his thoughts:

“Being a mentor in this program has significantly contributed to my personal and professional development by enhancing my leadership and communication skills. Guiding mentees through their learning journeys has deepened my understanding of web development, strengthened my problem-solving abilities, and reinforced my commitment to continuous learning.”

Together, mentors and mentees built a supportive community that continues to uplift gig workers, especially women, in their career paths.

Informed and Established a Collaborative Community of Gig Workers

In addition to the upskilling and mentorship programmes, the initiative also introduced Gig Talks, a series of knowledge-sharing sessions designed to foster collaboration and learning among gig workers. These talks brought together aspiring and experienced gig, and industry experts to share their experiences, challenges, and strategies for success in the gig economy. The goal was to create a platform where gig workers could exchange insights, learn from industry leaders, and build networks that would enhance their career opportunities.

Through five gig talks, over 200 participants gained practical knowledge on topics ranging from understanding the gig economy, essential skills and accessing learning on digital platforms to exploring career advancement pathways for gig workers in Kenya. This approach not only equipped participants with technical skills but also helped them understand the importance of communication, resilience, and adaptability in a rapidly evolving job market.

Paving the Way for a Sustainable Gig Economy

By combining the gig talks with digital skills training and mentorship, DOT Kenya and GIZ created a holistic approach to empowering gig workers. This multifaceted programme ensured that participants were not only skilled but also well-connected and informed about the opportunities and challenges within the gig economy. 

The Dissemination of Gig Workers’ Courses and Scaling of the Mentorship Programme has left a lasting impact on Kenya’s gig workforce. By providing accessible skills training, fostering peer learning, and facilitating mentorship, this programme has empowered gig workers to confidently navigate the complexities of the gig economy. For many, the journey has just begun, but with the skills, knowledge, and support gained through this initiative, they are better equipped to seize opportunities, secure fair working conditions, and thrive in an ever-evolving digital landscape. As Kenya continues to embrace the gig economy, programmes like these will be vital in shaping a future where gig work is not only a source of income but a pathway to economic sustainability and empowerment for all.

About the Project Partners: 

Digital Transformation Center, Kenya (DTC)

The DTC is an initiative implemented in Kenya by the Deutsche Gesellschaft für Internationale Zusammenarbeit (GIZ) on behalf of the German Federal Ministry for Economic Cooperation and Development and the European Union through the German Development Cooperation. It was commissioned in early 2023 to support the country’s digital transition towards a sustainable and human-centred digital economy and society. For more information, email dtc-kenya@giz.de.