Assessing the Role of Solid Waste Management in Promoting Economic Empowerment of Woment in Nairobi County-Kenya: A Case of Selected Women Groups in Kibera Informal Settlement, Nairobi County, Kenya
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Date
2023-10
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Publisher
Daystar University, School of Applied Human Sciences
Abstract
The disposal of solid waste is a pressing issue in both urban and rural areas, impacting communities worldwide. This study focused on women's economic empowerment through solid waste management (SWM) initiatives in Kibera, an informal settlement in Nairobi County, Kenya, where challenges related to waste management are particularly acute. Using an explanatory sequential mixed methods design, the study examined ten women's groups involved in SWM in Kibera. Data was collected through questionnaires and interviews, with quantitative data analyzed using SPSS and qualitative data subjected to content analysis. The findings revealed that women engaged in SWM in Kibera employ various resourceful strategies, such as waste collection, recycling, and selling waste for reuse. These activities not only contribute to income generation but also empower women and improve the environment. The income earned from SWM activities fosters financial independence and enables women to start small-scale businesses, strengthening their decision-making roles in their families. Despite these benefits, women face several challenges, including gender-based discrimination, limited access to waste collection facilities, competition from other SWM companies, and inadequate waste disposal infrastructure. These affect women's economic empowerment differently, necessitating gender-sensitive interventions and better infrastructure support. The study identified existing support mechanisms, like training programs and capacity-building initiatives tailored to women's specific needs in SWM, enhancing their skills in waste management, recycling, and financial literacy. Efforts to promote gender equality and inclusivity in the sector are also ongoing. The study suggests strategies to enhance women's economic empowerment through SWM. These include implementing gender-sensitive waste management policies, fostering collaborations, using appropriate technology, seeking adequate funding, and raising community awareness. Addressing these challenges and implementing these recommendations, Kibera's women can contribute significantly to SWM and their own economic empowerment.
Description
MASTER OF ARTS
in Monitoring and Evaluation
Keywords
Solid Waste Management, Economic Empowerment of Woment, Nairobi County-Kenya, Kibera Informal Settlement
Citation
Otieno, P. A., (2023). Assessing the Role of Solid Waste Management in Promoting Economic Empowerment of Woment in Nairobi County-Kenya: A Case of Selected Women Groups in Kibera Informal Settlement, Nairobi County, Kenya: Daystar University, School of Applied Human Sciences