Kenya is making a name for itself on the gig economy
The East African nation has long been known for its wild beauty, safaris, and rich culture. But over the past two decades, Kenya has emerged as a leading force in the burgeoning internet-based gig economy.
In 2016, Kenya was ranked as the most entrepreneurial country in Africa, according to a report by the Global Entrepreneurship Monitor (GEM). The report found that 29% of Kenyans between the ages of 18 to 64 are involved in some form of entrepreneurial activity, compared with an average of 13% for sub-Saharan Africa.
Tech-savvy Kenyans have long played a prominent role in the global freelance workforce through sites like Upwork and PeoplePerHour that pay workers to perform tasks remotely. Now the country’s entrepreneurs are taking it one step further by creating digital platforms that offer unique value propositions for gig workers.
Kenya is now the undisputed leader in Africa’s freelance economy. Although it is not recognized as a top 20 country for freelancing, Kenya leads all other African nations in terms of freelancers participating in platforms like Upwork, Fiverr, and Freelancer.com.
In this article, we’re going to look at how Kenya is taking over the freelancing world—and why they are so successful at it. Whether you’re Kenyan or just inspired by their success story, check out these great tips!
| Takeaway |
|---|
| 1. Kenya’s Freelancing Boom: Learn how Kenya is emerging as a powerhouse in the freelancing industry, offering unique opportunities for freelancers locally and globally. |
| 2. The Gig Economy Impact: Understand how the gig economy is reshaping the way people work and how Kenyan freelancers are thriving in this dynamic environment. |
| 3. Rise of Online Platforms: Explore the role of online freelancing platforms in connecting Kenyan freelancers with clients from around the world and fueling the country’s freelancing growth. |
| 4. Nurturing Entrepreneurship: Discover how freelancing is fostering entrepreneurship in Kenya, allowing individuals to create their businesses and achieve financial independence. |
| 5. Challenges and Solutions: Gain insights into the challenges faced by Kenyan freelancers and the strategies they employ to overcome obstacles and build successful freelance careers. |
Why Kenya Is Taking Over Freelancing
The answer is simple: lack of jobs. I am not saying that there are no jobs in Kenya at all but they are like mirages in the desert. When you run after them, they just disappear before your eyes. Even if you manage to get one, it will be very difficult for it to pay your bills.
Kenyans are also well-educated and English-speaking. This makes it easier for them to pick up any freelance job because they can communicate well with their clients. Most Kenyans are also internet savvy which makes them great candidates for online jobs.
As the freelance landscape evolves, Generation Z is taking center stage. Discover the secrets to success with our comprehensive Freelancing Guide for Generation Z, empowering the next generation of freelancers.
How Do Kenyan Freelancers Find Work?
Freelancers get work by bidding on projects on various freelancing websites. Their bids are ranked in order of quality, experience, and price. Freelancers are then paid according to their ranking.
The top freelancer websites where Kenyans get jobs to include:
Upwork, which has the most number of Kenyan freelancers accounting for about 80% of all freelancers in Kenya
Fiverr, where services start at $5
Freelancer, where there is a lot of competition for lower-paying projects (less than $100)
Guru is the least used platform among Kenyan freelancers at only 8% of all Kenyan freelancers are on Guru
Kenyans also get work directly from clients or through agencies that aggregate work to freelance writers e.g. Textbroker or Crowd Content.
How Are Kenyans Benefiting From Freelancing?
Currently, Kenyans are rated as the best freelancers from Africa with most of them working in writing jobs, graphic design, and software development. Many people who want to become freelancers are joining freelance platforms like Freelancer.com where they can bid for projects from different clients all over the world.
The government has also invested heavily in developing strong internet connectivity which is among the top 5 in Africa, this has played a major role in enabling Kenyan people to access a bigger market both locally and internationally. Most Kenyans have also embraced technology which has made it easier for them to access services they would not be able to get locally due to limited resources.
This is a list of the top freelancing skills in Kenya right now
1. Data entry
2. Proofreading
3. Transcription
4. Customer support
5. Accounting/bookkeeping
6. Virtual assistant
7. Web research
8. Administrative support
9. Writing and editing
10. Social media marketing
Are you a Millennial seeking independence and career flexibility? Embrace the freelance lifestyle and learn how to carve your path to success with our guide: How Millennials Can Become Independent and Freelance Their Way to Success.
How Much Can A Kenyan Freelancer Earn?
Kenyan freelancers are earning up to $2,500 (Sh213,000) monthly on global jobs platforms – an indication that the country is taking the lead in outsourcing.
Kenya is emerging as a powerhouse in the world of freelancing. Discover how the country is taking over freelancing and reshaping the global freelance landscape in our insightful article: How Kenya Is Taking Over Freelancing.
What Are The Most Common Problems Freelancers In Kenya’s Face?
But even with the influx of freelance income, many Kenyans still face issues that make it difficult for them to earn a living as a freelancer. Here are some of the most common problems Kenyan freelancers face:
The biggest challenge is lack of jobs, says one Kenyan freelancer. The number of jobs available is just not enough for all the writers out there who have great writing skills but can’t get work because there isn’t enough work for everyone, he says.
“We also have challenges with clients who offer low rates and expect top-notch quality work,” another Kenyan freelancer says. “This has seen us lose quality talent to other better-paying countries, hence affecting our potential as an industry.”
Another problem Kenyan freelancers face is scammers who take advantage of their desperation for work, according to one respondent. Some clients want free samples or want you to do a job just so they can review it and pay later — a common problem in Kenya, he says.
The rise of freelancing is causing a fundamental shift in how we approach work. Explore the transformative effects of the gig economy with our article: Freelancing Is Causing a Fundamental Shift in the Way We Work.
The Future Of Entrepreneurship And Freelancing In Kenya Is Bright!
According to one of the largest freelance websites, Upwork, Kenya is among the top 10 countries with the most freelancers in Africa. This has been attributed to the high internet penetration and smartphone usage. Freelancing has become very popular among Kenyans in urban areas, especially Nairobi.
According to recent statistics, more and more Kenyan youth are beginning to take advantage of the fourth industrial revolution which involves automation, artificial intelligence, and robotics.
Lay the groundwork for your six-figure freelance business by learning essential strategies and tactics. Our article, How I Am Laying the Groundwork for a Six-Figure Freelance Business, will set you on the path to financial prosperity.
Final Thoughts
At the end of the day, it doesn’t matter if you are in Kenya, the UK, or India. You can be a freelancer and make viable income online. Through online tools and services, people from all over the world can now work from afar, in more places than ever. All it takes is hard work. Kenya’s success is but an inspiration for you to start and also succeed as freelancers.
Further Reading
The Rise of Freelancing and the Gig Economy Short Description: Learn about the growing trend of freelancing and the impact of the gig economy on modern work dynamics. Read more
Upwork Tax Update in Kenya Short Description: Stay informed about the latest tax regulations affecting freelancers on Upwork in Kenya. Read more
ChatGPT Taking Kenya’s Ghostwriters’ Jobs Short Description: Explore the influence of AI language models, like ChatGPT, on the freelance writing industry in Kenya. Read more
FAQs
How is freelancing contributing to Kenya’s economy?
Freelancing has become a significant contributor to Kenya’s economy, providing job opportunities and fostering entrepreneurship. The rise of online platforms and the gig economy has facilitated the growth of the freelance sector.
What are the tax implications for Kenyan freelancers working on Upwork?
Kenyan freelancers working on Upwork must adhere to specific tax regulations. The recent tax update has brought changes that freelancers should be aware of to comply with their tax obligations.
How is ChatGPT impacting the freelance writing industry in Kenya?
ChatGPT, an AI language model, is revolutionizing the freelance writing landscape in Kenya. Explore how this technology is influencing job opportunities and content creation for ghostwriters.
What are the benefits of freelancing in the gig economy?
Freelancing in the gig economy offers various benefits, such as flexibility, autonomy, and access to a global client base. Freelancers can choose projects that align with their skills and preferences.
How can freelancers adapt to the changing dynamics of the gig economy?
As the gig economy evolves, freelancers must stay adaptable and continuously develop their skills to remain competitive. Understanding market trends and embracing new technologies are crucial for success.
Costantine Edward is a digital marketing expert, freelance writer, and entrepreneur who helps people attain financial freedom. I’ve been working in marketing since I was 18 years old and have managed to build a successful career doing what I love.