Sacks of cereals displayed in an open market highlight how small-scale traders create income opportunities despite limited formal employment. Many families depend on the buying and selling of food products to meet their daily needs and support their households. Photo by David Mativo.
An aerial view of Githurai showing crowded streets and busy trading activities. The high population and limited formal employment opportunities have pushed many residents into informal street businesses as a means of survival. Photo by David Mativo.
Motorcycles lined up along the roadside reflect the growing boda boda industry as a major source of employment for young people. The sector provides income and transport services despite challenges such as congestion and lack of proper working spaces. Photo by David Mativo.
A boda boda shop remains idle as riders wait for customers in Githurai. The lack of regular clients highlights the challenges faced by many youth who depend on informal transport businesses due to limited employment opportunities. Slow business and competition make it difficult for operators to earn stable income. Photo by David Mativo.
Sacks of cereals displayed in an open market highlight how small-scale traders create income opportunities despite limited formal employment. Many families depend on the buying and selling of food products to meet their daily needs and support their households. Photo by David Mativo.
Demolished small-scale business structures are seen along a roadside as public service vehicles pass by in Githurai 45. (Photo: David Mativo)
An electronic shop in Githurai sits mostly empty,with no customers reflecting the challenges faced by small business owners in areas with high unemployment. Limited customers and competition make it difficult for traders to earn a steady income, highlighting the economic struggles in the community. Photo by David Mativo.
Malimali shop in Githurai sits mostly empty, showing the challenges faced by small business owners in a community with high unemployment. Limited customers and competition make it difficult for traders to earn a steady income, highlighting the economic hardships that many residents face daily. Photo by David Mativo.
This photography project highlights the relationship between street businesses and unemployment in Githurai. The area is densely populated, and formal job opportunities are limited. As a result, many residents, especially the youth, turn to informal businesses such as vending food, selling cereals, and operating boda bodas to earn a living.Street businesses play an important role in supporting families and sustaining the local economy. They provide affordable goods and services while creating self-employment opportunities. However, traders face challenges such as congestion, lack of proper working spaces, poor infrastructure, and economic instability.During the shooting, I observed that many people work long hours under tough conditions just to make daily income. Despite these challenges, the community remains hardworking and resilient, using creativity and determination to survive in an environment with limited formal employment.
This issue matters because street businesses provide income to many families and help reduce the effects of unemployment. They also offer affordable goods and services to residents. However, the lack of proper infrastructure and working spaces makes it difficult for traders to operate comfortably and safely
MCS-133-049/2024