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Blog Series

Africa’s Gig Economy and the Role of Digital Finance

Digital gig platforms are on the rise globally, connecting millions of independent workers to expanded markets. But research indicates – and the COVID-19 crisis has highlighted – that such platforms have done little to alleviate risks fundamental to the informal economy, including income volatility and lack of bargaining power for workers. And since platforms require digital capabilities, they may even exacerbate inequalities – often based on gender, class, and geography – that characterize many offline labor markets.

 This blog series shares findings from CGAP’s work on youth and the gig economy, with a special focus on young women workers in Africa. We will explore what the gig economy means for the livelihoods and resilience of these workers, how tailored financial services could help them access and maximize the potential of gig work, and what it will take to make such services available to more people.

An Uber driver in Nairobi, Kenya, looks for riders on his app.
Blog
11 August 2020

Financial Services for Platform Workers: Lessons from Partnerships

Platforms in Kenya are partnering with licensed financial services providers to offer credit, insurance and savings to their workers. Here are some lessons emerging from these partnerships.
Daniel, a former ride-hailing driver in Kenya
Blog
22 June 2020

The Wrong Kind of Credit: Why Loans to Gig Workers Must Reflect Income

Volatile gig income and inflexible loan repayment schedules can be a dangerous mix, as this ride-hailing driver in Nairobi learned from experience. His story serves as a cautionary tale to lenders and borrowers in the gig economy.
Gig workers like Frida Nyawira, a carpenter, often need financing to practice or expand their trade. Photo: CGAP
Blog
04 June 2020

Financial Services for Gig Workers: An Intersection of Needs in Kenya

Gig workers in Kenya cite savings, loans and medical insurance as top financial services they would like to access via gig platforms. While platforms across Africa increasingly offer credit and insurance, savings appears to be under-supplied.
Fridah, 19, shares her experience working in Kenya's gig economy. Photo: Josephine Kibe
Blog
18 December 2019

How Are Kenya’s Youth Experiencing the Gig Economy?

The gig economy is on the rise in Africa. What does this mean for youth? In Kenya, CGAP interviewed young people to get their perspectives.

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