What comes to your mind whenever the word Kibera is mentioned? To most people, the response would be; it is a slum.
Others will associate it with crime, poverty, unemployment, poor housing and sanitation and with little or no space for children’s playgrounds.
Yes, it is referred to as the largest slum in Africa and the third largest in the world.
However, all is not gloomy for this biggest slum in Kenya.There are many positive points about living in Kibera.
Even though unemployment is rife among youth, those in Kibera have devised ways of making themselves self reliant.
They own businesses such as movie shops and charcoal and water kiosks among other activities that helps them make ends meet.
Kibera residents run their businesses such as boda bodas, shops and dress-making.
Indeed, the slum is likely to be a thriving economy in a few years to come.
As it regards sanitation, the Nairobi City County, the Devolution ministry and the National Youth Service projects deserve the thumbs up for cleaning up the area.
The ongoing NYS projects also include building of fish ponds for residents to earn a living and improve their living standards.
Life is cheap. While other people buy a 20-litre jerrican of water at Sh20, residents in Kibera get the same quantity at Sh3!
Education in the area has greatly improved in a way that even those who did not manage getting education in their youthful age can attend adult classes.
“Kibera is a good place to live,” said Alphas Motali who was born and brought up in the slum.
When asked about his future plans, he said on Monday that he is working hard to better his life.