Findings (Aug 2022)

COVID-19 Impacts on Mobility in Kenyan Informal Settlements: A Case Study from Kibera, Nairobi

  • Carlo Luiu,
  • Amos Wandera,
  • Jonathan Radcliffe,
  • Francis D. Pope,
  • Vera Bukachi,
  • Joe Mulligan

Abstract

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This paper explores the changes in mobility and associated impacts in informal settlements arising from COVID-19 measures implemented in Kenya. Based on data from ten focus group discussions held in Kibera, Nairobi, we find that the dusk-to-dawn curfew and the increased costs of travel reduced the number of journeys and access to transport options, with consequent changes in mobility and increased time spent to travel. Such changes led to significant loss of income and reduced access to opportunities. This increased the already existing high level of poverty in Kibera and exacerbated individuals' economic vulnerability.