Diani, 27 May 2025: Hon. William Kabogo, Cabinet Secretary, Ministry of Information, Communications and the Digital Economy, has today launched the 2025 National Study Report on Emerging Trends and Private Sector Opportunities in the Digital Work Ecosystem during the official opening of the Connected Africa Summit 2025, happening in Diani. The Ajira Digital Program is an initiative of the Government with strategic partnership of Mastercard Foundation and implemented by the Kenya Private Sector Alliance (KEPSA) and eMobilis, a Program that has been championing digital work for youth in Kenya. This report provides invaluable insights into the dynamic digital work landscape, both locally and globally, presenting great digital work opportunities for Kenya’s young people.

The study analyzes Kenya’s digital job market in relation to global trends, identifying in-demand roles, employer expectations, skill gaps, and income disparities. Several issues have been depicted in the study on why Kenya's workforce is not cutting-edge at the global digital workspace following issues such as; lack of adequate advanced tech skills, barriers to global certifications, challenges in getting practical experience, competition from other countries among other inclusivity issues. However, the growth in digital economy is transforming labour workforce, creating new opportunities while reshaping traditional employment structures hence, addressing the highlighted barriers through targeted upskilling, strategic industry collaboration and enhanced global recognition is essential for unlocking the full potential of Kenya's digital workforce.

Also, in attendance was Eng. John Tanui, the Principal Secretary, State Department for ICT & Digital Economy, Dr Ehud Gachugu, Ag. Deputy CEO and Global Director of Youth & Jobs at KEPSA, representatives from Mastercard Foundation, Ministers from Djibouti, Saharawi, Uganda, Namibia, Somalia, Romania, eMobilis Training Institute among other key officials from the government and the private sector; both locally and across the continent.

The issue of youth unemployment has been persistent in Kenya with the Kenya National Bureau of Statistics suggests that over 50% of Kenya's unemployed, totaling nearly 2.97 million individuals, are aged below 29 years old. The digital economy presents a golden opportunity to create jobs for many young people online, hence that’s why this report sought to establish how we compare with other successful jurisdictions, the best practices, and how to confront challenges that exist in the digital jobs ecosystem. This study offers a comprehensive analysis of the critical skill gaps that hinder Kenyan digital workers from fully participating in the global digital economy, outlining structured, actionable pathways to equip young professionals with the intermediate and advanced digital skills, industry-relevant certifications, and practical experience needed to thrive in an increasingly competitive international market.

Hon. William Kabogo Cabinet Secretary officially launched the summit by emphasizing the critical role of emerging technologies, particularly Artificial Intelligence (AI), in shaping the future of work and economic competitiveness across Africa, noting that lack of adaptation will result in risk of being left out. The CS expressed his hope and ambition that Africa will not only participate in this revolution but lead it, creating meaningful innovation and reaping tangible economic gains. Tying this vision to the Ajira Digital Report, he underscored the urgency of preparing Africa’s youth for this rapidly changing landscape by equipping them with future-facing digital skills and enabling an ecosystem that supports entrepreneurship, innovation, and global competitiveness.

"Ladies and gentlemen, join me today in unveiling this report that provides a comprehensive overview of the current trends shaping Kenya's digital labour. As it reflects the voices, aspirations and realities of our young people, may it guide and inspire us to do more and create more inclusive pathways. It is now my honour to officially launch the Ajira Digital National Study Report 2025 on Emerging Trends and Private Sector Opportunities in the Digital Work Ecosystem." Said the CS while unveiling the report.

According to the report, one of the main reasons why Kenya faces challenges in accessing high-value international roles is due to its focus on intermediate-level skills rather than advanced digital expertise. Many Kenyan digital workers are skilled in basic coding, digital marketing, and graphic design but lack specialized competencies in emerging fields like AI, blockchain, and machine learning, furthermore high costs remain a major obstacle for Kenyan digital workers seeking globally recognized certifications such as AWS, Google Cloud, CISSP, and Microsoft Azure. Many of these certifications require significant financial investment, often beyond the reach of many professionals, especially those in entry-level or freelance positions.

Noting on how the private sector is at the center of transformation highlighted by the report and how it’s set to benefit, Dr. Ehud Gachugu, Ag. Deputy CEO and Global Director of Youth & Jobs at KEPSA emphasized the value proposition that Africa offers to the global digital economy. He noted that by equipping the continent’s young people with globally relevant skills, Africa is positioning itself to access vast opportunities beyond its borders. He stressed that the focus must be on ensuring that young people are not just participants, but beneficiaries of the digital revolution, empowered to maximize their potential and secure dignified and meaningful work in the global digital landscape. A digitally skilled workforce not only addresses talent gaps but will also enhance productivity, innovation, and competitiveness unlocking new markets and enabling businesses to scale effectively in the digital economy.

“The Ajira Emerging trends and private sector opportunities Report offers a timely reflection on how digital work can be truly transformative for Kenya and the African continent. As a country, we are investing heavily in foundational and entry-level digital skills, recognizing that this is where real inclusion begins. In the next five years, Africa and Kenya in particular can lead in delivering quality digital talent, putting young people at the very center of economic transformation. With the youngest population globally, our demographic advantage is clear but we must act intentionally to build their capacity, skills, and confidence to compete and thrive. Unlocking the full promise of digital work will require strong policy support, coordinated government action, and active involvement from all stakeholders.”

The future of jobs is digital; however, for Kenya to fully maximize the digital space and compete with countries such as the Philippines and India, a lot needs to be done. Affordable access to advanced skills training is a key priority. Partnerships between local training institutions and international Certification providers can reduce costs for Kenyan learners. While offering incentives to global BPOs to establish operations in Kenya, focusing on job creation and skills transfer might go a long way in ensuring that young people are exposed to relevant skills that will enable them to compete on a global stage.

To access the full report, click here

Here are a few take-outs from the speakers:

• AI alone is expected to create 11 million jobs by 2030, but also displace 9 million, particularly in roles involving repetitive tasks
• Around 70% of job postings specify a bachelor’s degree as a prerequisite, particularly in fields like computer science, data science, and engineering. While advanced degrees may provide an edge, practical skills remain the primary determinant of success.
• Women account for 43% of the digital workforce but face challenges such as lower pay and limited access to advanced roles.
• Nairobi and the Rift Valley dominate digital participation, while regions like North Eastern Kenya are underrepresented.
• Many Kenyan freelancers struggle to secure high-paying contracts due to a lack of strong portfolios, internationally recognized certifications, and niche expertise.