Call for Consultants: Political Economy Analysis of MSMEs and the Gig Economy in East Africa

Young people are the backbone of East Africa’s economy. Yet millions continue to navigate livelihoods that are informal, insecure, and characterised by limited protections and opportunities.

As Twaweza East Africa develops its new strategy focused on improving the lives and well-being of young people in Tanzania, Kenya, and Uganda, we seek to better understand the systems that shape youth livelihoods, particularly within Micro, Small and Medium Enterprises (MSMEs) and the growing gig economy.

We are inviting applications from experienced individual consultants in Tanzania, Kenya, and Uganda to undertake country-specific Political Economy Analyses (PEAs) of the MSME and gig economy systems.

The studies will go beyond describing challenges. They will examine why the system functions the way it does, whose interests shape it, where resistance to change may emerge, and where opportunities exist to advance more productive, safer, and dignified livelihood pathways for young people.

The assignment will explore issues such as:

• The structure and dynamics of youth participation in MSMEs and gig work;
• The formal and informal institutions that govern these sectors, including policies, regulations, market practices, and social norms;
• The actors, incentives, relationships, and power dynamics shaping the ecosystem;
• The barriers and opportunities influencing young people’s access to sustainable livelihoods.

We are looking for consultants with:

• Strong experience conducting Political Economy Analysis;
• Deep knowledge of MSMEs, informality, youth livelihoods, labour markets, or digital platforms;
• A strong understanding of the country-specific context in Tanzania, Kenya, or Uganda;
• Qualitative research expertise and the ability to translate complex analysis into strategic recommendations.

This is an opportunity to contribute to a deeper understanding of how systems can shift to create better livelihood outcomes for young people across East Africa.

Application deadline: 22 June 2026

Interested applicants should submit their proposal with the email subject line: [COUNTRY] – Consultancy Application: Political Economy Analysis of MSMEs and Gig Economy.

Applications should be sent to:

Uganda: wnanteza@twaweza.org (cc: jobs@twaweza.org)
Kenya: mwandia@twaweza.org (cc: jobs@twaweza.org)
Tanzania: syusuph@twaweza.org (cc: jobs@twaweza.org)

We encourage applications from consultants who bring rigorous analysis, strong contextual knowledge, and a commitment to understanding how systems can change to better serve young people.

Read the full Terms of Reference here.