The Promises & Pitfalls of Digital Livelihoods for Refugees in Kenya

In Kenya, where over half a million refugees seek safety and opportunity, digital skills are emerging as a crucial pathway to self-sufficiency. But are these tech-driven solutions addressing deeper structural challenges—or just a quick fix?

 

In the latest episode of Samuel Hall Stories, host Mwara Namelok and Aol Jared, our Research Operations Manager, dive into years of Samuel Hall’s research on digital livelihoods to explore what’s working, what isn’t, and how barriers to access - including legal and infrastructural barriers continue to hold back progress.

We also tackle tough questions on exploitative work conditions in the digital economy, the promises of the new Refugee Act and the vital role of Refugee-Led Organisations (RLOs) in driving real change.

Tune in to hear practical and durable solutions for a more ethical, inclusive, and sustainable digital future for refugees.

Show Notes:

• Digital Livelihoods for Refugees—Examples, Challenges, and Recommendations

• WUSC & Mastercard Foundation: Market Assessment of Digital Employment Opportunities for Refugee Youth

• This Refugee-Led Organisation is Championing Digital Skills in Kakuma

• ILO – Towards decent work for young refugees and host communities in the digital platform economy in Africa

• Championing Digital Livelihoods For Refugees In Kenya

Pre-into music: The Remains of Hope /Magnus Ringlblom/ Epidemic Sound

Intro and Outro Music: The Light/Loving Caliber/Ooyy/ Epidemic Sound

Break Music: No More Reason/Farrell Wooten/Epidemic Sound

Don't forget to subscribe and share. Stay tuned for more episodes!