Blockchain platform connects businesses, gig workers

Cryptocurrency firm Safcoin has launched a blockchain-powered micro-jobs platform that aims to connect businesses and gig economy workers across Africa for free.

In a statement, Safcoin says MobiJobs.Africa allows startups and SMEs to list jobs, search freelancer profiles and establish an online presence without setup, hosting or development costs.

The platform also allows freelancers to market their skills, build their experience and “buy” listed jobs, even if they don’t have a bank account, Safcoin adds.

It notes that there are no registration, account or transaction fees, and jobs are paid in Safcoin cryptocurrency.

According to the firm, technology is enabling the growth of the freelance, or “gig” economy, with more people taking on short-term, flexible tasks to make money.

MobiJobs aims to empower more Africans to access global work opportunities, broaden their experience and sell their skills and talents online, the firm says, adding that all they need is a mobile phone or laptop and connectivity.

It explains that job seekers in Africa have until now been restricted from participating in digital shared job platforms such as MobiJobs because they had little or no access to bank accounts.

In fact, about 1.7 billion, or 62%, of sub-Saharan Africans are unbanked, says Safcoin.

It points out that those without a bank account pay high transaction, payout and commission fees, which eat into their freelance income.

MobiJobs uses blockchain technology to eliminate bank fees. Powered by Safcoin cryptocurrency, it facilitates a payment process between individuals and businesses through the SAFPay gateway.

Payment is secured before the service provider starts the job, and is released when the job is marked as complete.

Through MobiJobs Workdesk, freelancers can manage their jobs, advertise their skills, communicate with clients and rate their experience.

Neil Ferreira, CEO of Safcoin, says: “Our aim with MobiJobs is to help individuals in Africa take their skills and talents global, and to empower small businesses to tap into a global talent pool, as and when they need it.

“Through the platform, users can gain experience, build practical hours while studying, request testimonials from companies they have completed assignments for, and build relationships with companies across Africa. All this via a free cryptocurrency payment gateway that ensures they get paid quickly and securely, with zero transaction costs.”