INTEGRATING WOMEN ACTIVITIES INTO GREEN ECONOMY FOR SUSTAINABLE DEVELOPMENT IN KIBERA INFORMAL SETTLEMENT, NAIROBI COUNTY

Abstract

A casual walk in Nairobi especially in the informal settlements reveal heaps of garbage that end up clogging drainages and polluting the environment. Green economy is holistic sustainable development envisioning the social, economic and environmental factors for future generations. Socially and culturally, women are nurturers in homes. The study sought to establish how the activities women carry out in households and the community, can help protect the environment in sustainable development. The study used a survey research design with a target population of 1200 women in Kibera. Stratified random sampling proportionate to size was used to select 300 respondents. The study adopted Structured questionnaires, and data analysis was the use of descriptive statistics. The simple activities women carry out like shopping, cleaning, and solid waste management in houses contribute to the green economy. Garbage categorization at the household level would help prevent polythene bags and currently, used face masks from ending up clogging drainage systems. The Three R's of Recycle, Reuse and Reduce is significant. Garbage categorization in separate bins, in the residential areas, where the bulk of the garbage originate would fast track clean, green and resilient development. In the wake of the Covid-19 pandemic, the disposal of face masks, gloves, and PPE's must be environmentally friendly. Women participation in the green economy through the domestic activities carried out can never be overlooked.