How big data & tech can empower young businesses in East Africa

Young people across Africa, particularly in Generation Z, are brimming with technological know-how and access to data. However, many lack the essential skills required to establish and sustain successful businesses. In a bid to address the data literacy and skills gap among the youth, CNBC Africa engaged in a thought-provoking conversation with Shikoh Gitau, the Chief Executive Officer of Qhala Limited based in Nairobi, Kenya. Gitau shed light on how leveraging big data and technology can empower young entrepreneurs in East Africa to navigate the competitive business landscape. Generation Z represents a demographic that generates a significant amount of data globally, boasting adeptness in technology and the capability to monetize their skills. Nevertheless, the crucial aspect of building sustainable business models often eludes them. Deploying innovative approaches, such as the utilization of WhatsApp flashchats, Gitau and her team at Qhala Limited are breaking new ground in equipping young entrepreneurs with the requisite skills and knowledge to thrive in the digital economy. The Future Work Lab initiative pioneered by CURL aims to forecast the evolving employment landscape, emphasizing digital skills and preparedness for the workforce of tomorrow. By collaborating with partners across the continent, CURL is shaping a generation of tech-savvy individuals adept in areas like AI, data analytics, and prompt engineering, vital for securing a foothold in the growing digital economy. Notably, the democratization of online learning platforms has enabled aspiring entrepreneurs to upskill and create sustainable livelihoods without hefty financial investments. The digital economy presents a wealth of employment opportunities for Africa's burgeoning youth population, with the potential to revolutionize traditional job markets. As Gitau aptly puts it, 'the digital economy is real, and it's employing hundreds of thousands of young people on this continent, with ample room for further growth.' Shifting the focus to policy formulation, Gitau underscores the imperative for African governments to embrace the digital economy wholeheartedly. By enacting policies that safeguard online work as a legitimate form of livelihood, policymakers can create an enabling environment for digital entrepreneurship to thrive. Moreover, advocating for digital literacy at the highest levels of government is crucial in shaping legislation that supports the digital workforce and facilitates sustainable economic growth. In essence, the fusion of big data, technology, and strategic policy interventions holds the key to unlocking the entrepreneurial potential of Africa's youthful population. By equipping them with the necessary skills and knowledge base, the continent can cultivate a dynamic ecosystem of tech-driven enterprises that are primed for success in the rapidly evolving digital landscape.