Overview
This project, conducted as part of my master’s thesis, examines the critical role of the informal economy in ensuring urban food security in Nairobi, Kenya. Specifically, it focuses on the spatial distribution, socioeconomic profile, and contribution of Mama Mbogas (small-scale informal female vegetable vendors) in Roysambu Ward.
As Africa urbanizes rapidly, the informal sector, which provides an estimated 70% of urban food consumption, becomes a central pillar of food accessibility in urban areas. My research addresses the limited data on these vendors to provide data-driven insights for policymakers and development organizations
Project Objectives
- To map and analyze the spatial distribution and clustering patterns of Mama Mbogas in Roysambu Ward.
- To establish the socioeconomic profile of these vendors to better understand their daily operations and challenges.
- To quantify the contribution of Mama Mbogas to the urban food security of the ward’s residents.
methodology
The research utilized a descriptive design, combining quantitative data collection through spatial mapping and structured questionnaires. Spatial analysis techniques used included: kernel density estimation, spatial auto correlation, network analysis, and buffer spatial analysis which were conducted using QGIS and R . This comprehensive approach allowed for a detailed examination of the spatial distribution and patterns of Mama Mbogas within Roysambu Ward.
- Kernel Density Estimation (KDE): Used to identify high-concentration “hotspots” of Mama Mboga activity, revealing that vendors cluster in densely populated areas and along major roads like Lumumba Drive and Mirema Road.
- Spatial Autocorrelation (Moran’s I): The Moran’s I statistic of 0.8193 indicated a strong, statistically significant positive spatial autocorrelation, confirming that the vendors’ distribution is not random but highly clustered. This confirmed the strategic choice of locations based on customer foot traffic and accessibility.
- Network and Buffer Spatial Analysis: This analysis revealed that all Mama Mbogas are situated along the road network, which provides crucial visibility and access to pedestrians. Buffer analysis further showed that most residents live within a short walking distance (under 1 meter) of a vendor, highlighting the vendors’ role in ensuring convenient access to fresh produce for the community.
Key FINDINGS
The research yielded a comprehensive profile of the Mama Mbogas and their critical function in the food system.
- Demographics: The vendors are predominantly women (1:12 ratio), aged 18-40, and their vending is their primary source of income.
- Operations: They work an average of 13 hours a day, with peak business hours in the evenings. They predominantly source their produce from Githurai Market and their main cost is the purchase of fresh produce.
- Spatial Patterns: The vendors are not randomly distributed but form strategic clusters along road networks to capture customer demand. The proximity of their stalls to residential buildings ensures easy access for a majority of the population.
- Products: The most commonly sold products are staple leafy greens, tomatoes, and onions, which are essential components of local diets.
This work can be leveraged by local governments to design more inclusive urban planning policies and by non-profits to create targeted support programs for informal vendors. For detailed analysis check out the full theses here
