Kenya’s gig economy—a vital force within the nation’s ICT sector—now has a new blueprint for growth and fairness through the launch of *A Policy Guide for Digital Economy Progress*.
Created by the Mastercard Foundation, eMobilis Technology Institute, and Africa Practice, the toolkit addresses key challenges for Kenya’s 1.2 million gig workers, such as inadequate legal protections and algorithmic biases on global platforms.
The guide proposes five core strategies, including an industry standards forum, a gig worker registration platform, and essential legal reforms to enhance protections under the Employment Act of 2007.
These strategies aim to sustainably improve working conditions and create a more supportive environment for businesses.
Backed by extensive input from stakeholders, the toolkit seeks to strengthen Kenya’s digital workforce and position the country as a global leader in the gig economy.
“This guide creates an environment where gig workers can access better opportunities and where businesses can confidently invest,” said Ken Mwenda, Managing Director of eMobilis.
Richard Kiplagat of Africa Practice described it as “a significant step forward” for a sustainable, inclusive digital economy that will enable Kenyan youth to compete globally.
At the launch event, policymakers, business leaders, and workers were urged to support the toolkit’s initiatives, marking a step toward sustainable growth and digital leadership for Kenya across Africa.
