Life in Kibera slums need flexibility and positive thinking. Perseverance is another quality you need since life doesn't pamper anybody there. Waking up in the morning to do something is a routine most so to men with wives and children.
Lack of proper jobs is nature of Kenya and has to be accepted since the leaders have failed to create employment opportunities. However, if you are a Kibera resident struggling to make ends meet, try these ways of making money:
1. Supply water
Houses in Kibera slums are not fitted with taps and sinks where water flows day in day out. Residents have to seek for taps or tanks with water to purchase some for their daily survivals. For somebody without a job, supplying water to these families at their doorsteps can be better for them and for you since you will earn some profit. Find 'mkokoteni' owners or purchase yours and get to work.
2. Sell chapattis and mandazis in the morning
During morning hours from 5:30am to 11am, people buy mandazi and chapatti for breakfast for them and even their kids who are preparing for school. Waking up early to prepare these is an added advantage as they will find you ready with your mandazi or chapatti hence you won't lose your customers.
3. Sell beans, dengu, githeri in the evening
Most people prefer buying boiled beans (mboco), dengu, or githeri than cooking them at home. In the evening, women buy these, get home and fry them and eat alongside rise or chapatti with their families. This is therefore a sure bet for whoever may be interested in such.
4. Play pool
Especially men, playing pool table game is very fun and fair way to earn money in the slum. If you are good at this then try it for a week and you will spot the difference. Although you might lose a good number of times, you have to keep your head high as it is normal to lose.
Should you find life unbearable in the great Kibera slum, try the above four tips and you will see change. DO NOT ignore such jobs on the grounds that they are meant for women - not in Kibera. Hustle!