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Paper short abstract:

I would like to discuss on gig work as a solution to the rising unemployment in Kenya. Gig work enabled by technology is a very relevant solution to the challenge of unemployment that youth in Kenya are facing. With a difficulty in accessing traditional forms of work, it proves a relevant solution.

Paper long abstract:

The gig economy is a market system that is characterized by temporary short contracts done by independent workers. It came from the word ‘gig’ that meant a defined performance by musicians and artists. In the same breadth, it means a job that lasts for specific period of time. With technology, gig work is borderless and done remotely and/ or facilitated though digital platforms. With the rising unemployment, borderless gig work presents a unique niche which can be utilized to overcome this very challenge. With the major cause of unemployment in Kenya being a lack of sufficient job creation, there is a need for an expanded labour market where labour demand is high. However, with the significant youth bulge and joblessness growth, labour supply exceeds demand. This has driven the young people into crime and poverty.

Under such challenges, the gig economy presents a unique and new opportunity which can be pursued by the unemployed to earn a living. In addition, with less obligations on the part of employers as well, they are as preferring it. Traditional jobs having a multiplicity of obligations on both the employer and the employee. Borderless gig work presents a unique opportunity for both to achieve their goals with independent short term workers demand being on the rise.

My paper will delve into borderless gig work as a solution to unemployment moving forward.