15th-Jan-2026 • Sheldon Cooper • Gig Economy
Welcome to a new era of work! The gig economy, characterized by short-term contracts or freelance jobs, is rapidly gaining traction across Kenya and Africa. As a small business owner, embracing this trend can offer numerous benefits for your enterprise.
According to a recent report by the World Bank, the gig economy represents over 25% of employment in sub-Saharan Africa. This suggests that there's a vast pool of talent eager to contribute to businesses like yours.
Let's explore how you can leverage the gig economy to your advantage:
Tapping into the gig economy allows you to access a diverse and flexible workforce. Whether you need an extra hand for a special project, seasonal peak, or a quick skill set, freelancers can fill those gaps effectively.
For instance, a restaurant owner in Nairobi could hire a graphic designer on a freelance basis to design promotional materials for a new menu launch.
By engaging gig workers, you can avoid the costly overheads associated with full-time employees, such as benefits, payroll taxes, and office space. This can lead to significant savings for your business.
Consider a web developer from Mombasa who works on a project basis for various clients. The client only pays for the actual hours worked, reducing operational expenses significantly compared to hiring a full-time employee.
The gig economy offers access to an extensive global talent pool. With the internet as your connecting platform, you can find and collaborate with experts from around the world.
A small accounting firm in Kisumu could hire a US-based bookkeeper for a few hours each week, ensuring accurate financial records without the need for a local full-time employee.
Lipabiz Technologies Ltd provides an all-in-one business management platform and payments solution to streamline your operations. With Lipabiz, you can manage freelancers effectively by tracking hours worked, invoicing, and payment processing seamlessly.