What challenges do Kenyan women face in the online gig economy?

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Kenyan Women Encounter Digital Divide in Online Gig Economy

Kenyan women face significant hurdles in participating effectively in the online gig economy, primarily stemming from less reliable internet access and lower digital literacy skills compared to their male counterparts. These disparities have resulted in a disproportionately low representation of women within the sector, with a majority of those involved being young.
Limited Internet Access and Digital Skills

A notable challenge for Kenyan women in the online gig economy is their less reliable access to the internet, a factor exacerbated by lower general education levels which often correlate with fewer digital literacy skills. This digital gender gap means that many women struggle to navigate online platforms and leverage digital tools essential for securing and managing gig work. According to a 2023 International Labour Organisation report, these are key reasons why women lag behind men in digital engagement within Kenya.
Underrepresentation in the Gig Workforce

The consequence of these challenges is a significant underrepresentation of women in Kenya's gig economy. A 2023 study supported by the Alexander Von Humboldt Institute for Internet and Society indicated that only 28% of gig workers in Kenya are female. Furthermore, the study highlighted that the majority of these female gig workers are under the age of 25, suggesting that older women may face even greater barriers to entry or participation.
Barriers to App Adoption and Usage

Beyond general access, some women in the gig economy face specific difficulties with digital platforms. For instance, certain hair braiders may lack consistent mobile data or feel uncomfortable using the applications designed to connect them with clients. Initiatives like the "Braiding Nairobi" app, co-founded by Natachi Onwuamaegbu, have attempted to address this by directly contacting braiders to confirm orders when they encounter such issues, demonstrating a practical approach to overcoming user hesitancy.

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What challenges do Kenyan women face in the online gig economy?

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