Silent Struggles: The Impact of Pollution on Women-Led Businesses in Kangemi

Sellers and buyers transact goods in Kangemi market

In the buzzing Kangemi market of Nairobi, Kenya, air and noise pollution have become formidable obstacles for local businesses. This situation is particularly detrimental to women, who comprise the majority of roadside vendors. The intersection of gender and climate change reveals profound disparities, as women bear the brunt of these environmental challenges.

Poor Air Quality

Air pollution in Kangemi market, stems from a combination of factors, including vehicle emissions, rotting garbage due to late collections by county government and both tarmacked and untarmacked dusty roads. The dense smog and smell not only poses severe health risks but also directly impacts business operations. Belinda Nekesa, who sells perishable goods including fruits and vegetables, finds her merchandise compromised by the polluted environment. The accumulation of dust and soot on her products diminishes their appeal and accelerates their spoilage, leading to significant financial losses. 

Additionally, Cynthia Akoth, who sells blended juice in the same market, complains of ailments caused by prolonged exposure to polluted air. She says that these pollutions reduce her ability to work consistently, since customers sometimes evade her goods due rotting garbage nearby, which translates to losses since her products easily get spoilt.

Endless Noise

Noise pollution, predominantly from incessant traffic and loudspeakers, exacerbates the plight of these businesswomen. The relentless noise disrupts transactions and deters potential customers, who prefer quieter, more pleasant shopping environments. Moreover, the high-stress levels induced by continuous noise exposure can lead to chronic health problems, including hypertension and anxiety, which disproportionately affect women, balancing multiple roles as entrepreneurs, caregivers, and household managers.

The impact of air and noise pollution on women in business, is a fragment of the broader issue of gender and climate change. Women, particularly in impoverished areas, are more vulnerable to the adverse effects of environmental degradation due to their socio-economic status and traditional roles. In Kangemi, limited access to healthcare exacerbates the health risks posed by pollution, while financial constraints hinder the ability to adapt or relocate businesses to less polluted areas.

Broad Policies

Addressing these challenges requires a multifaceted approach. Policymakers must prioritize the enforcement of environmental regulations to curb pollution. Urban planning should include designated, pollution-free zones for roadside vendors, ensuring a healthier and more stable business environment. Additionally, empowering women through education and access to resources can enhance their resilience against climate-induced adversities.

Community initiatives, such as tree planting and awareness campaigns about the benefits of clean energy, can also play a pivotal role. These efforts not only improve air quality but also foster a sense of collective responsibility towards environmental stewardship. By tackling the twin menaces of air and noise pollution, Kangemi can become a more conducive environment for its industrious women entrepreneurs, thereby enhancing their economic prospects and overall well-being.