A female conductor. [photo/kenyafreepress.com]
The matatu sector, responsible for keeping the country moving, literally, is a multi-million dollar industry. Yet, for many years, did not employ women, owing to its hostility towards the gender. It is a rough industry that has been seen as a preserve of the aggressive, uneducated and uncivilized, traits that kept women at bay.
But, a lot has changed over the years, and with the ever-shifting outlook of society, seeing a female matatu crew-member is no longer a sight to behold. Furthermore, with increasing economic challenges and rising unemployment rates, there are many strong-minded women who have embraced the job, if only to keep their families financially afloat.
If it is hard for male crews to be recognized by society as legitimate workers, you can imagine how much a difficult choice it is for a woman to go down that road, so, what drives them, and what are their experiences like?
Passion for the job and tough living standards are among many factors that have forced women to this sector. As the general rule still withstands what a man can do, a woman can do better.