Braiding Nairobi: Empowering Kenyan Women in the Digital Gig Economy

Kenyan hair braider Jemima Atieno struggled as her clientele dwindled due to the pandemic and rising online competition. The introduction of 'Braiding Nairobi,' an app created by Natachi Onwuamaegbu, offers hair braiders like Atieno a digital platform to access more customers, counteracting gender disparities in Kenya's online gig economy.

Jemima Atieno, a veteran Kenyan hair braider, faced declining business at Nairobi's Kenyatta market as the pandemic drove customers to seek services online. Her struggle reflects a broader gender gap in Kenya's expanding digital gig economy, where men have reaped more rewards than women.

The launch of 'Braiding Nairobi,' a new app founded by 25-year-old Natachi Onwuamaegbu, is leveling the playing field for female braiders. After interviewing salon workers at Kenyatta market, Onwuamaegbu created the app to connect braiders with consumers, bypassing the need for social media prowess.

Despite challenges like unreliable internet access and insufficient digital skills among women, the app is gaining traction. Currently, 180 customers and 100 braiders are using it, although Kenya still needs regulatory policies for its growing gig economy.

(With inputs from agencies.)