In Nairobi, many young people have resorted to street vending to earn a livelihood amid a tough job market. Every day, vendors selling items such as smokies, eggs, and snacks take to the streets hoping to generate enough income to support themselves.
Solomon Shemezimana, a street vendor operating in Kilimani, highlighted the difficulties posed by dishonest customers who make mobile payments only to later reverse or cancel them. "This has become a major challenge for us. Many people do not respect our work, but it is a job that pays," he explained.
Rising prices of essential goods like eggs and tomatoes have also squeezed vendors' profits. John Ombiema, a food vendor in Westlands, noted that customers often try to pay less than the asking price due to the high cost of living. "Sometimes a customer eats a smokie and offers only 30 shillings instead of 70, claiming that's all they have, which leads to losses," he said.
Additionally, the absence of designated vending spaces means that adverse weather, particularly during the rainy season, disrupts business and reduces customer turnout.
Despite these challenges, street vendors remain committed to their trade, viewing it as a vital means of self-employment and survival in a city where formal employment remains elusive.
