GIGNOMICS KENYA
Your Interactive Financial Guide to Thriving in Kenya’s Gig Economy
Gig Economy at a Glance
This dashboard provides a high-level overview of the Kenyan gig economy, highlighting its rapid growth and the key financial realities faced by freelancers. Use these insights to understand the landscape you’re navigating.
Explosive Growth of Gig Workers in Kenya
Source: Report Data [2]
Top Financial Challenges for Freelancers
Source: Report Data Synthesis [5, 6, 7, 8, 9, 10]
Who is the Kenyan Gig Worker?
Predominant Age Range
Turn to gig work due to lack of formal jobs
Average hours worked per week by drivers
The typical Kenyan freelancer is young, digitally savvy, and often driven by financial necessity. While the gig economy offers a vital alternative to formal employment, it demands long hours and a proactive approach to financial management to overcome income instability and the absence of traditional job security.
Your Financial Toolkit
This section provides practical, interactive tools and strategies to help you master your finances. From budgeting for a variable income to choosing the right payment platforms, these resources are designed for action.
Budgeting with Variable Income: A Freelancer’s Rule
Click on a segment to learn more about this adapted 50/30/20 rule for freelancers.
Choosing Your Payment Platform
Tax & Legal Hub
Navigating your tax and legal obligations is crucial for long-term success. This hub simplifies complex topics like KRA compliance, tax deductions, and social protection schemes to help you stay compliant and secure.
Key KRA Compliance Points
Annual Filing
The tax year is Jan 1st – Dec 31st. You must file your returns by June 30th of the following year.
eTIMS Mandatory
From Jan 1, 2024, all invoices must be submitted via eTIMS. Expenses without eTIMS invoices are not deductible.
VAT Registration
Required if your annual income exceeds KES 5 million. You must then charge 16% VAT.
Withholding Tax (WHT)
Clients may withhold 5% on professional fees over KES 24,000/month. This is a pre-payment of your annual tax.
Explore Your Tax Deductions
Community & Support
You’re not alone on your freelance journey. This section connects you with valuable resources, online communities, and financial literacy initiatives designed to support Kenyan freelancers in building sustainable careers.
Financial Literacy Initiatives
Organizations dedicated to empowering you with financial knowledge for the digital economy.
Online Communities
Connect with peers, share advice, and find opportunities in these digital spaces.
Legal & Contract Support
Protect yourself with robust contracts and know your options for dispute resolution.
