The Gig Economy, Digital Transformation & Youth Employment in South Africa, Policy Perspectives

Dr Brenda Mwale (SCIS, Wits) examines the gig economy as a route into work for South Africa’s unemployed youth (15 to 24 unemployment of 60.9%). With online penetration near 80% but only 10% of employees reporting advanced digital skills, the presentation argues that the skills gap traps young people in low-value location-based gigs such as driving and delivery rather than higher-value online work. It weighs the promise and perils of platform work and the proposed 2025 amendments to the Basic Conditions of Employment Act, and identifies opportunities to move youth up the digital skills ladder. Presented at the 2026 Public Economics Conference.