Kenya's gig economy is growing rapidly, with approximately 1.9 million people engaged in digital jobs, including 1.2 million gig workers, as estimated by a 2025 World Economic Forum report. The country's digital workforce spans freelancing, business process outsourcing, and other digitally delivered services. This shift towards digital work has created new opportunities for Kenyans to earn a global income from the comfort of their own homes.
Grace Mureithi, Director of Customer Success at DreamStart Labs, recently spoke at the Co-op Bank Youth Forum on "The Gig Economy: Earning Global Income Safely." With a career spanning customer success, project management, and operations, Mureithi leads customer success, global product adoption, and partner engagement across DreamStart Labs' digital products. Her experience working with organizations involved in financial inclusion and building digital tools for savings groups provides her with a unique perspective on the gig economy.
Mureithi emphasized that simply knowing how to use a piece of software is not a marketable skill. Instead, freelancers should package their skills around business problems and outcomes, such as managing customer support, supporting product launches, or project management. This approach enables freelancers to demonstrate the value they can bring to potential clients, rather than just selling their technical skills.
For those starting out in the gig economy, Mureithi advised creating a portfolio to demonstrate capabilities, even without prior experience. Sample projects can showcase a freelancer's skills and help them stand out. Additionally, concentrating on one or two trusted freelance platforms can help beginners understand how each works and build their professional reputation.
However, Mureithi also warned about the risks associated with online work, including job scams and safety concerns. She highlighted warning signs such as vague job descriptions, unusually high pay for simple tasks, and requests for money before work begins. To mitigate these risks, freelancers should have a signed contract before starting work and keep communication and payments on the platform where the job originated.
The International Labour Organization (ILO) has also acknowledged the challenges associated with digital labor platforms, including working conditions and worker protections. In June 2026, the ILO adopted its first international labour standard specifically addressing the platform economy. As the gig economy continues to grow, it is essential for freelancers to be aware of these risks and take steps to protect themselves.
Long-term growth in the gig economy depends on the quality of work delivered, documenting that work, and building positive reviews. A strong first assignment can become more than a payday; it can become evidence that helps secure the next client. By treating online work like a real profession, Kenyans can participate safely in the gig economy and earn a sustainable global income.
Key points
- Kenya's gig economy offers opportunities for global income, but safety and sustainability are key concerns.
- Freelancers should package their skills around business problems and outcomes to demonstrate value to potential clients.
- Awareness of risks and taking steps to protect oneself is crucial for success in the gig economy.
