Gig Workers in Kenya Struggle With Unsafe Conditions and Falling Earnings

Kenya’s growing gig economy is exposing thousands of workers to low pay, unsafe conditions and limited legal protections, according to a new report by Human Rights Watch. 

The report was released ahead of International Labour Organization negotiations in June 2026 on a proposed global treaty for platform workers. The study, Algorithms of Exploitation: Rights Abuses in the Gig Economy and the Global Fight for Change, examines how digital labour platforms are reshaping employment while avoiding many obligations linked to traditional work arrangements. 

Governments are expected to debate international standards that could strengthen protections for millions of people working through ride-hailing, delivery and other digital platforms. Human Rights Watch said many platform companies structure their operations in ways that transfer financial risks and operating costs to workers. 

By classifying drivers and couriers as independent contractors rather than employees, companies are often not required to provide benefits such as minimum wage guarantees, paid sick leave, pensions or social security contributions. At the same time, the report says that companies continue to control important aspects of work through algorithms that determine pay, assignments and performance ratings.

Lena Simet, Senior Economic Justice Advisor at Human Rights Watch, said the upcoming negotiations at the International Labour Organization represent the first major global effort to address these issues. The report is based on interviews with workers in nine countries, including Kenya, India, Lebanon, Mexico, Pakistan, Saudi Arabia, Kuwait, the United Arab Emirates and the United Kingdom. 

Across these countries, workers described similar experiences of long working hours, unstable earnings and limited support after accidents or violent incidents.

In Nairobi, driver Agnes Mwongera said she was assaulted by a passenger while working for a ride-hailing company. 

According to the report, she received no effective assistance after reporting the incident. In Lebanon, driver Apraham Orfalian said his earnings had steadily declined since 2015 and that he received no support after being robbed while working. 

In Scotland, food courier Graeme Franes said he depended on friends and family after a violent attack left him unable to work for six months with a broken arm.

The report also challenges claims that platform work offers meaningful flexibility and independence. 

Many workers interviewed said they were required to work long hours to cover costs such as fuel, vehicle maintenance, insurance and internet access. After these expenses, earnings often fell below minimum wage and living wage levels.

According to Human Rights Watch, this model allows platform companies to increase revenues while passing operating costs onto workers. The organisation warned that, without stronger protections, many workers could remain trapped in insecure employment with limited rights and support.