Despite many Kenyan firms laying off their workers due to the effects of covid19 pandemic, 35% of businesses say they are currently hiring according to a study by Kenya Private Sector Alliance (KEPSA). 24% of the roles are informal, contractual jobs, while 11% are permanent and full-time roles.
The study by KEPSA shows that the most sought after skills are technology and soft skills such as communication, negotiation, and creativity.
Kenyan firms are optimistic about fully recovering from the pandemic-induced downturn in the short run. 43% of the businesses expect to recover fully in 2021, and 8% of the firms expect to recover by the end of this year. 2% of companies say that they have already fully recovered.
Industries that show the highest level of optimism include; Health, Transport & Storage, Manufacturing, Education, Construction, and Finance and Insurance. In contrast, industries such as Wholesale and retail trade, tourism, energy, and professional services show the highest level of uncertainty about fully recovering. 1% of businesses do not expect to recover from the negative effects of covid19.
