By Emmanuel Kipkoech

Digital entrepreneurship is transforming the lives of young people in Migori Town, offering fresh income opportunities amid persistent unemployment challenges.

Armed with smartphones, internet access and determination, many youths are now running online businesses and reaching customers far beyond their neighbourhoods without the high cost of renting physical shops.

Twenty-four-year-old Brian Otieno is among the young entrepreneurs benefiting from the growing digital economy. What began as a small WhatsApp page selling clothes has since developed into a stable online business.

Brian now promotes his products through Facebook and TikTok, while partnering with boda boda riders to deliver orders to customers across Migori County and beyond.

“I started with only Sh8,000. Instead of renting a shop, I used social media to advertise my products. Today, I have customers from different parts of Migori County and beyond,” Brian said.

Young entrepreneurs in Migori are increasingly using digital platforms to sell clothes, cosmetics, electronics and food. Others are earning income by offering services such as graphic design, article writing, video editing, website development and social media management.

Most of the businesses rely on WhatsApp Business, Facebook Marketplace and mobile money services to communicate with customers, market products and receive payments.

The growth of online businesses is being supported by increased access to smartphones and internet services across the country. The International Labour Organization notes that digital platforms are creating new employment opportunities for young people by lowering business costs and expanding access to markets.

The Communications Authority of Kenya has also reported continued growth in internet and smartphone usage, enabling more Kenyans to participate in online trade and digital services.

However, digital entrepreneurs in Migori still face several challenges, including high internet costs, unreliable network coverage, online fraud and limited access to affordable loans to expand their businesses.

Cybersecurity expert Eddyphil Ochola has urged online traders to remain alert, especially when dealing with customers and digital payments.

“Many small businesses lose money through fake payment messages and online scammers. Entrepreneurs should always confirm payments before releasing goods and learn basic cybersecurity skills,” he advised.

Business leaders and residents believe Migori has the potential to become a regional digital innovation hub if the county government invests in digital training centres, reliable internet connectivity and youth mentorship programmes.

They also note that the rise of online businesses has created additional opportunities for boda boda riders, delivery personnel, photographers, content creators and social media influencers.

As technology continues to reshape commerce, digital entrepreneurship is proving that with creativity, affordable internet and the right skills, young people can build sustainable businesses and improve their livelihoods from anywhere.

I can also make it more newspaper-style, more viral for social media, or add a stronger Migori County government angle.