The Gig and Freelance Economy in Africa increases in popularity

Freelancing is rapidly growing across Africa and provides a variety of opportunities that run parallel with the economic dynamism that Africa is becoming renown for. An increasing number of companies are choosing this new model of employment.  In a study conducted by financial services company Payoneer, around 21,000 freelancers from 170 countries around the globe were interviewed. The report shows that Africa accounts for 10.1% of the world’s freelancers – and that will grow. Freelance work can be found across sectors: from economics and graphic design, to translation, writing, photography, marketing and computer science. The trend also reflects business models of traditional companies which are being challenged by the double blow of the virtual economy and globalization. In addition, new digital professions, like ecommerce, have emerged alongside the growth of the digital economy over the past decade. These professions only take a computer and an internet connection for the person to be able to work. I know first-hand: our 24 year old lost her job when the digital agency she worked for folded in May, and she now works freelance.