In Egypt, Digitalize Your Business was adapted and launched to support the training to help micro and small enterprises, aspiring freelancers and digital entrepreneurs adopt digital tools to expand market reach and improve operations.

The programme supported the Ministry of Innovation and Technology in elaborating the Five-Year Digital Inclusion Strategy, which considers the specific needs of refugee and host communities.

The programme helped establish and operationalise a Community of Practice (CoP) on Digital Jobs and Skills, co-organised by the Ministry of Innovation and ICT and the Ministry of Labour and Social Protection, to break down policy silos. The ILO conducted a mapping study titled “Digitally Empowering Young People in Refugee and Host Communities – What is Possible?” in Kenya to inform practitioners in the field, including the programme staff and development partners, in the design and implementation of activities. The digital economy in Turkana and Garissa counties has emerged as a key sector with potential to contribute towards the creation of decent jobs, especially for Kenya’s youth. This presents an opportunity for refugees to access jobs in the digital labour market through acquisition of market driven digital skills. Success story: From Refugee to Digital Worker.

The programme conducted a survey on the working conditions of traditional and platform-based delivery workers, with half of the respondents being Syrian refugees.

The programme piloted Digital Employment Diagnostic Guidelines to measure the job creation potential of the digital economy, including for refugees. The programme also supported the formulation and integration of refugees in Uganda’s National Employment Policy and Strategy. These frameworks support a more competitive workforce in high-growth sectors such as information and communications technology (ICT). A Community of Practice (CoP) on Digital Jobs and Skills, initially established in Kenya, was replicated in Uganda, led by the Federation of Uganda Employers. Training and support were provided through a network of national organizations, including in refugee areas, to help micro and small enterprises, aspiring freelancers and digital entrepreneurs adopt digital tools to expand market reach and improve operations. This includes leveraging social media, e-commerce platforms, online marketplaces and digital payment services, while ensuring compliance with regulations on data protection and privacy. In addition, collaboration with UNICEF enabled the acquisition of connected devices and mobilized youth with basic digital skills for upskilling through the ILO’s Gig Work Programme.