Africa's evolving labour market and the future of jobs

As Africa continues to embrace digital transformation, sectors like e-commerce, fintech, and technology-driven industries are playing a pivotal role in shaping the future of work across the continent. Moses Kemibaro, Founder & CEO of Dotsavvy, shared his insights on the role of e-commerce and fintech in creating sustainable jobs, the need to bridge the skills gap, the rise of the gig economy, and the importance of inclusive economic growth through government policies and investments. With platforms like Jumia creating jobs in logistics, warehousing, and digital marketing, and services like M-Pesa revolutionizing financial inclusion, the landscape of job creation is evolving rapidly. SMEs are accessing larger markets globally, and opportunities in areas such as mobile banking, software development, and cybersecurity are on the rise within the fintech space. The collaboration between governments, private sectors, and organizations like Microsoft and Google in training programs is essential to bridge the skills gap and prepare the workforce for the jobs of the future. Additionally, upskilling and reskilling initiatives by companies such as ALX are catering to the needs of an established workforce adapting to new technologies. The gig economy is witnessing significant growth in Africa, providing young entrepreneurs with avenues to leverage their skills in sectors like delivery services and digital content creation. Platforms like Uber, Upwork, and Fiverr are empowering individuals to earn flexible incomes and build scalable businesses without heavy upfront investments. However, safeguards such as social protection mechanisms and upskilling opportunities are crucial to ensure fair treatment and sustainable growth within the gig economy. In terms of inclusive economic growth, Moses emphasized the importance of government policies and investments in creating a level playing field for local startups and industries. With AI set to impact future job prospects, establishing the right standards and providing enabling capabilities through policies will be essential in preparing the workforce to be globally competitive. By attracting foreign organizations while supporting local businesses, governments can foster an environment conducive to innovation and sustainable employment opportunities in the digital economy.