A pioneering new toolkit, developed in partnership with the Mastercard Foundation, eMobilis Technology Institute, and Africa Practice, provides a comprehensive framework to reform Kenya’s gig economy.
This initiative aims to establish a more equitable and sustainable sector for over one million workers and businesses.
The toolkit, titled “A Policy for Digital Economy Progress,” is the result of extensive research and engagement with key stakeholders in the gig and digital economy.
It presents a detailed policy framework to address challenges faced by gig workers in the digital delivery space and foster the sector’s growth and development.
Since its formal recognition in 2007 under Kenya Vision 2030, Kenya’s gig economy has become a vital contributor to the ICT sector’s GDP, growing from 1.4% in 2017 to 2.4% in 2021.
Currently employing 1.2 million workers, mostly in the informal sector, the gig economy holds an annual value of $109 million.
Despite this progress, gig workers face significant challenges, including algorithmic bias on global platforms and limited legal protections in Kenya.
The guide “A Policy Guide for Digital Economy Progress” provides actionable strategies to unlock the full potential of Kenya’s gig economy.
Using a systems-change approach, it strengthens the link between labor protections and a supportive business environment for digital labor platforms and business process outsourcing enterprises.
The guide outlines five key interventions, such as forming a tripartite forum to set industry standards and creating a multi-purpose registration platform for gig workers.
It also advocates for legal reforms to enhance protections under the Employment Act 2007 and other labor laws, while incentivizing businesses to foster dignified gig work.

Mr Ken Mwenda Co-founder and MD eMobilis delivers a project keynote address
“As a leader in digital skills training, we witness the transformative impact of Kenya’s gig economy firsthand. This guide offers a clear roadmap to creating an environment where gig workers access better opportunities and businesses can confidently invest in this thriving sector,” said Ken Mwenda, Managing Director and Co-founder of eMobilis.
The guide’s development involved extensive research and collaboration with over 190 stakeholders, including gig workers, job providers, and policymakers.
Their feedback shaped the policy proposals, ensuring alignment with the needs and aspirations of those directly impacted by the sector’s growth.
Managing Director for East Africa and Group Chief Commercial Officer at Africa Practice, Richard Kiplagat, stated, “This toolkit marks a pivotal step toward shaping the future of Kenya’s gig economy. By addressing regulatory gaps and championing worker protections, we aim to build a fair and sustainable digital ecosystem that empowers Kenya’s youth to thrive and compete globally.”
With in-depth analysis of gig workers’ legal status, wage protection, occupational health and safety, and social protections, the guide offers practical solutions to bridge gaps in Kenya’s labor policy.
It also highlights the steps needed to expand special economic zones to support the virtual and international nature of gig work.
Stakeholders such as policymakers, industry leaders, gig workers, and media representatives are invited to engage in discussions on how the guide can drive meaningful change for Kenya’s gig economy.
This toolkit marks a significant milestone, offering clear strategies to enhance worker protections, set industry standards, and attract investment.
It also positions Kenya as a global leader in the gig economy.
As stakeholders from various sectors work together to implement these recommendations, the toolkit serves as a catalyst for sustainable economic growth, fostering meaningful progress in communities and establishing Kenya as a hub of digital innovation in Africa.