By Mariama Bundu
The growing impact of the platform economy on jobs and labour systems took centre stage at a high-level symposium hosted by the African Regional Labour Administration Centre (ARLAC) in Freetown on 12 March 2026.
Sierra Leone’s Minister of Employment, Labour and Social Security, Mohamed Rahman Swaray, used the forum to call for stronger policies and protections for workers in the fast-expanding digital labour space. The event, held at Lagoonda Hotel, brought together labour leaders and policymakers from across Africa.
Minister Swaray said digital platforms are rapidly transforming the nature of work, creating new opportunities for employment and innovation, but also exposing workers to risks due to weak or outdated labour laws.
“The platform economy is reshaping employment patterns and labour relations, yet many workers operate without formal contracts or protection,” he noted, warning that this leaves millions vulnerable to exploitation.
Across Africa, digital platforms are already gaining ground in sectors such as transport, e-commerce and financial technology. Services like Uber and Bolt have expanded ride-hailing, while companies such as Jumia and Takealot are driving online trade. Mobile financial services like M-Pesa are also boosting financial inclusion.
Despite these gains, the Minister stressed that many platform workers are classified as independent contractors, excluding them from benefits such as minimum wage protection, sick leave, and social security. He also raised concerns about algorithm-driven management systems that can affect workers’ income and job security.
The symposium aims to strengthen the capacity of ARLAC member states to respond to these emerging challenges. Participants are exploring policy options and regulatory approaches to ensure that innovation in the digital economy goes hand in hand with fairness and decent work.
Discussions at the meeting are expected to contribute to a common African position ahead of the 2026 International Labour Conference organised by the International Labour Organization.
Minister Swaray urged African countries to speak with a unified voice in global discussions on the future of work, emphasizing that technological progress must be balanced with the protection of workers’ rights.
He also commended contributions from key partners, including the African Union Commission, International Trade Union Confederation, International Organisation of Employers, and the Commission for Conciliation, Mediation and Arbitration.
The symposium highlights Africa’s growing commitment to shaping a fair and inclusive future of work in the digital age.
