Introduction
“I wish I could be a freelancer working independently according to my own terms. I wish I could be my own boss.” It is not unusual now to hear these words coming from many people who witness the rapid changes currently taking place in labour markets across the world. These changes have given hope for workers to find jobs with better conditions and pay systems that match their talents and suit their needs. However, is the future of freelance work in developing countries, such as the African countries, an entirely bright one, or does it also come with some potential threats and concerns that should be addressed?
Freelance Work in the World: Current Trends
A freelancer or a self-employed individual is not new to labour markets. In fact, any person who works for themselves can be considered a freelancer. According to Explodingtopics.com, there are about 1.57 billion freelancers representing nearly half the share of workers globally. Moreover, with the fast technological progress and digital transformation of labour markets, new modes of work have emerged. Freelancing has evolved in new sectors and accelerated, particularly after the outbreak of COVID-19. Furthermore, the gig economy, in which a worker gets paid to perform small tasks for a certain period, has also grown rapidly. Studies by the World Bank estimate the number of online gig work platforms, which connect job suppliers with demanders, to be 545 global platforms.
Promises of Freelancing in Africa: How to Capitalize on?
Unemployment, underemployment, low wages, and a mismatch between labour supply and demand are persistent problems that have been facing many African countries for decades. Freelancing can be one of the tools to help tackle these challenges. Several African governments have realized this opportunity and are now launching initiatives to equip workers with the skills needed for digital labour markets and motivate them to become freelancers. Freelancing offers workers the chance to find jobs that match their passions and competencies. Women can work from home to balance their work and family responsibilities. Young people or the retired have better chances of finding work. People can also have side jobs through freelancing to enhance their incomes.
Potential Threats of Freelance Work in Africa: How to Minimize?
However, freelancing brings some challenges that need to be considered. First, without good governance, the size of the informal economy may increase. Second, no solid mechanisms exist for the health and social protection of freelancers. Workers can also be exploited and work for long hours without appropriate payment. As indicated by Explodingtopics.com, only about 10% of the world’s freelancers are in Africa, which also has the lowest hourly rate. Freelancers also suffer from weak job stability and a non-existent routine, which can cause some mental issues.
Conclusion
Today, freelancing has become a more adopted working reality. It can be a win-win situation for both employers and workers. However, threats of worker exploitation and lack of protection and stability need to be accounted for by governments in Africa to realize the benefits of freelancing and avoid its shortcomings.
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