During an appearance on the JKLive show, ICT Cabinet Secretary Eliud Owalo made a controversial statement, claiming that Kenyans no longer desire permanent and pensionable jobs, particularly in the government sector. According to Owalo, Kenyans are increasingly focused on pursuing multiple jobs simultaneously instead of seeking long-term, stable employment.
The ICT CS highlighted that the government is actively investing in the necessary infrastructure to support Kenyans in seizing new opportunities in the rapidly growing tech sector. He disclosed that the State has devised a plan to generate over 1 million non-permanent jobs for young people, emphasizing the rise of the gig economy.
"We are going to have a gig economy, which is a situation where you can be working for three different entities at the same time," Owalo explained. He argued that in today's era of technology, it no longer makes sense for individuals to limit themselves to one permanent job with pensionable benefits.
Furthermore, the CS pledged to ensure that all transactions and work arrangements are conducted through digital platforms, hailing it as a game changer. With the government's intervention, Owalo envisioned Kenyans being able to work for multiple companies in a single day.
Addressing concerns about the need for individuals to hold more than three jobs, Owalo clarified that the objective was to expand the income bracket for Kenyans. He revealed plans to establish digital laboratories in every ward, with the potential to create 1 million jobs for the youth. The CS highlighted that this approach would lessen the reliance on Members of Parliament and County Assemblies to lobby for jobs on behalf of their constituents.
In addition, Owalo announced that the government would collaborate with global companies, allowing Kenyans to work remotely for foreign organizations. Responding to skepticism regarding the feasibility of such partnerships, the CS affirmed that the plan was already in motion. He cited the example of a digital lab launched in Kabete, where youth had successfully earned Ksh200,000 through e-commerce.
A recent study conducted by Trends and Insights For Africa (TIFA) indicated that 38 percent of Kenyans do not have a monthly income, while only 3 percent earn above Ksh50,001. These findings further support the need for innovative approaches to employment and income generation, as the gig economy gains traction among Kenyans seeking greater flexibility and financial opportunities.