DVA4805 Assignment 3
(COMPLETE ANSWERS)
Semester 1 2025 - DUE
23 July 2025
NO PLAGIARIM
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Gender and Development
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Gender and Development
DVA4805 Assignment 3 (COMPLETE ANSWERS) Semester 1 2025 - DUE 23
July 2025; 100% correct solutions and explanations.
Find five (5) women working in the informal sector. Ask them to share the
major challenges and obstacles they encounter in their work environment.
Present and analyse your findings according to the main themes identified.
Propose policy guidelines and solutions to address the plight of women
working in the informal sector to increase their empowerment.
Title: Challenges and Empowerment Strategies for Women
in the Informal Sector
1. Introduction
The informal sector is a significant source of employment, especially for women in developing
countries such as Kenya. Women working informally often do so out of necessity, balancing
caregiving roles with economic responsibilities. Yet, their contribution to the economy remains
undervalued and unsupported by state institutions.
This study investigates the challenges faced by five women in Nairobi’s informal sector. It
analyzes their experiences using thematic analysis and proposes evidence-based policy
guidelines to enhance their empowerment and inclusion in national development.
2. Methodology
Five women from different informal occupations were selected using purposive sampling. Data
was collected through one-on-one, semi-structured interviews conducted in Swahili and English.
Profiles of Participants:
1. Mary (47) – Street food vendor in Gikomba Market for 11 years.
2. Aisha (32) – Mitumba trader (second-hand clothing) operating near a bus terminus.
3. Jane (40) – Domestic worker for different households, paid weekly.
4. Faith (26) – Hair braider running a roadside makeshift salon.
5. Ruth (35) – Tailor working from a rented wooden stall near a school.