The African freelance workforce is growing rapidly, driven by a young, dynamic population and increased access to digital platforms, tools, and global markets.
Recognizing this trend, the Innovation Village in partnership with Mastercard Foundation, Qraft Academy and Bakash Media Foundation organized its inaugural Freelancer Summit under the theme ‘Unlocking the African freelancer ecosystem’ to explore new freelancing opportunities, develop essential skill sets, and address the challenges within the gig economy.
According to a report by the African Development Bank, the gig economy is expected to contribute over $300 billion to Africa’s economy, with countries like Nigeria, Kenya, and South Africa experiencing a surge in freelance activities in sectors such as software development, content creation, data analytics, and graphic design. In Nigeria alone, the freelance workforce grew by 24% between 2021 and 2023, driven largely by young people, with 60% of Africa’s 1.3 billion population under the age of 25.
Japheth Kawanguzi, Team Lead at the Innovation Village, emphasized that freelancing success requires more than just your skillset; it demands a holistic approach and adaptability to new work trends.
Kawanguzi said, “The opportunities you seek within the gig economy will only be realized when you actively pursue them. The workforce requires intentionality, resilience, and adaptability. I understand the road to freelancing is not easy, and challenges will persist, but the path to success is carved through consistent, focused effort. As freelancers operating within the global gig marketplace, you must endeavor to access unprecedented tools and platforms that eliminate geographical barriers, allowing you to think and operate beyond Uganda.”
Adding, opportunities may not always be nearby, but with the right skills and mindset, they can be found anywhere in the world. Focus on becoming so exceptional in your craft that you can’t be ignored across the globe, Kawanguzi emphasized.
Michael Niyitegeka, Director of Refractory Academy, emphasized the importance of understanding the scope of work and the required competencies before taking on any project.
Niyitegeka said, “Success hinges on grasping the entire scope of a project and knowing the competencies required to deliver it effectively. Every task must align with the right skills, and thoughtful methodologies are essential to achieving quality outcomes. As freelancers or businesses scale, it’s vital to assess capacity carefully. Overcommitting can damage reputations, so growth should be managed with a focus on impact, team retention, and financial awareness, He said.
Adding, scaling in freelancing is not for everyone but critical is to recognize when it aligns with your strengths and when it’s best to collaborate with those right skillset or remain independent.
Further noting, Bart Cornille, D4D and Innovation Expert at Enabel Uganda noted the value of soft skills such as communication, time management, and teamwork in building a strong professional network and portfolio. He further stressed that partnerships and collaborations are critical for learning, growth, and expanding one’s impact in the freelancing world.
Daina Katto, Managing Partner at Steadman Global, advised freelancers to continually build their skillset and back them up with certifications to demonstrate expertise. “Professionalism is key to survival in the industry,” she said, urging freelancers to formalize their businesses and take compliance seriously. Katto concluded by emphasizing that success in the future of freelancing requires both skill and strategic thinking to navigate the evolving landscape.
The future of work is continually being redefined by technology, creating vast opportunities while also accelerating uncertainties driven by automation and economic disruptions. According to the World Economic Forum, the ongoing shift toward AI and algorithm-driven labor will displace 85 million jobs globally over the next five years, while creating 97 million new roles suited for a tech-driven world. By 2025, 6% of the global workforce may be displaced, 50% will require reskilling, and those remaining in their roles will need to adapt to new digital realities.
In a nutshell, Dr. Egwang Mitch Ronnie emphasized that as a freelancer, standing out is key, and success comes from resilience, learning, and constant adaptation. If you’re not failing, you’re not trying. “Every failure is a chance to win or learn. Differentiate yourself, build your brand, and leave lasting impressions. Mentorship and partnerships are essential so know your strengths and seek support where needed. Success is a marathon, so keep improving, stay competitive, and always believe in possibilities.” Dr Egwang concluded.
Therefore, it is crucial for freelancers to stay agile, consistently upgrade their skills, and leverage digital platforms and innovative technologies to thrive in an increasingly interconnected and automated future.
