Women in contemporary society are at times forced to do what is traditionally entitled to men due to economic constraints and scarcity of employment opportunities.
In Uasin Gishu's capital, Eldoret, a number of young female locals have resorted to engaging in competition with the male in the transport sector.
Caroline Kikwai, operating at Mosline Sacco serves as a tout opposed to the initial notion that such kind of occupation was reserved to men.
“What forced me into this occupation is the responsibilities that I have; to educate my child and pay rent. I never like being a burden to parents since I am a grown-up," said Kikwai, 28.
The mother of one further revealed that the relationship with her siblings was not good having that she is not married.
Another lady who identified herself as Grace, a resident of Uasin Gishu, said that her being a tout is like any other job and women should embrace all kind of jobs.
She pointed out that traditional norms that forbade women from competing with men are foregone.
“I began working in 2015 though I spend much time away from my family, it is paying,” Grace, 32 said while pointing out challenges she encounters including stigmatization and rough working environment.
Christine Chumba who earns a living from guiding and organizing matatus in Eldoret confessed to having opted to such kind of business than indulging in illegal business.
“I used to brew chang’aa until I was caught up with the law when the crackdown was done. I was arrested and later fined heavily,” said Chumba.
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