Digital platforms reshape how job seekers connect with employers

Government open to digital employment partnerships

The Ministry of Public Service and Labour says it is open to working with private companies that demonstrate strong job creation through digital employment platforms.

Abdou Musonera, Head of Labour Market Interventions at the ministry, made the remarks while commenting on Kazispace, a platform that connects job seekers, informal workers, and employers within one system.

Musonera said the government is willing to explore partnerships with platforms that show measurable impact and sustained growth.

New labour data system approved

The comments followed Cabinet approval of an integrated Labour Market Information System. The system aims to support evidence based planning and promote economic transformation.

The platform brings together labour data from public institutions, private companies, and training providers. It tracks job creation, skills development, internships, apprenticeships, and employment outcomes linked to major projects.

Officials expect the system to generate reliable labour market insights to guide decisions in education, employment, and skills planning.

How Kazispace operates

During the recent Kigali JobNet initiative, city officials and job seekers interacted with Kazispace’s founder, Dieudonné Tumukunde Bizagwira.

He said the platform uses smart matching technology to connect skilled, semi skilled, and informal workers with verified employers across different sectors.

The platform supports full time, contract, and short term jobs. It aims to reduce unemployment, underemployment, and slow hiring processes while promoting inclusive access to work.

Job matching and notifications

Job seekers create profiles on the platform by uploading their skills and experience. When a job matches at least 70 percent of their profile, the system sends an SMS alert.

Applicants can apply with one click, which automatically shares their profile and CV with employers.

Informal workers and service providers list their skills, location, and rates. Once booked, they receive instant notifications and communicate directly with clients.

Employers manage the full recruitment process online, from posting vacancies to selecting candidates. The system sends updates to applicants through SMS and email at each stage.

Tumukunde said artificial intelligence tools help identify suitable candidates after assessments, saving time and reducing hiring costs. He added that the platform limits physical contact during recruitment, which improves transparency and reduces corruption risks.

A mobile application is currently under development.

Expansion plans across Africa

Kazispace currently operates in Rwanda. The company plans to expand to Uganda, Kenya, Tanzania, Burundi, and the Democratic Republic of Congo.

By 2027, the platform aims to operate across all African countries.

Early results and employer feedback

Eric Tuyishime, owner of TEPHE LTD, an electronics company employing 12 people, said the platform helped him recruit quickly.

He said he hired a qualified worker within two days of posting a vacancy and plans to recruit additional staff.

Why digital job matching matters

According to Kigali Vice Mayor for Infrastructure and Urban Development Fulgence Dusabimana, digital job matching initiatives have already produced results.

In 2024, Kigali JobNet helped about 1,000 young people find jobs and linked more than 1,800 others to internships and training opportunities.

Kigali’s unemployment rate stands at 13.6 percent, slightly below the national average of 14.9 percent. However, officials say unemployment remains a major challenge due to rapid population growth.

Last year’s programme helped hundreds secure permanent and temporary jobs, internships, and skills training.

Personal success stories

For Emmanuel Ndayambaje, the impact was life changing. After completing a hospitality course, he spent four years without success. After joining JobNet, he received interview invitations from two hotels and now works full time in guest services.

Saleh Uwimana, Director of KSP Rwanda, said his company has hired 40 people through JobNet since 2013. Many joined through internships and later advanced into long term roles.

He said the programme gave job seekers renewed confidence and opportunity.