Sierra Leonian women turn to rickshaw driving to survive

The Informal Sector as a Crucial Economic Buffer

Sierra Leone faces a daunting economic landscape, particularly for its youth, with unemployment and underemployment rates estimated to be between 60% and 70%. This severe lack of formal job opportunities forces a significant portion of the population to rely on the informal economy for survival. For many, including college graduates like Alimatu Kamara, traditional career paths are simply unavailable, making alternative income streams not just an option but a necessity. The rise of women in kekeh (rickshaw) driving exemplifies this trend, showcasing how individuals adapt to systemic economic challenges by creating their own livelihoods.

This reliance on the informal sector is a common narrative across many developing economies, where formal structures cannot absorb the burgeoning workforce. The kekeh industry, in particular, has emerged as a viable alternative, not only providing employment but also addressing critical public transport needs. It represents a dynamic, albeit often unregulated, segment of the economy that plays an indispensable role in sustaining households and facilitating urban mobility, especially in congested cities like Freetown.

Addressing Gender Disparities Through Entrepreneurship

Women's participation in Sierra Leone's formal labor market is notably low, standing at less than 30%, and those who are employed often earn significantly less than their male counterparts. This disparity pushes many women into informal roles, which traditionally offer very limited earning potential. However, the shift towards kekeh driving presents a unique opportunity for women to potentially earn more than they would in other informal market activities.

This move into a traditionally male-dominated field signifies a form of economic empowerment, allowing women to gain greater financial independence and contribute more substantially to their households. Organizations like Plan International, through advocates like Marfoh Mariama Samai, recognize women's active role in the labor market and the need to support their ventures, even in non-traditional sectors. The increasing visibility of women kekeh drivers challenges existing gender norms and highlights their resilience and determination to overcome economic barriers.

Kekehs: Bridging Transport Gaps and Empowering Drivers

Beyond individual economic empowerment, the kekeh industry serves a vital function in Sierra Leone's urban infrastructure. These rickshaws have become the most feasible alternative for public transport, effectively bridging the gap between densely populated city centers and underserved neighborhoods that might lack adequate bus or taxi services. This dual benefit means that kekehs not only provide a source of income for drivers but also enhance accessibility and mobility for the wider population.

The growth of this sector, driven in part by women seeking employment, illustrates a grassroots solution to both unemployment and urban planning challenges. While the informal nature of the work presents its own set of challenges, such as lack of benefits or regulatory oversight, it undeniably offers a flexible and immediate pathway to earning a living. The phenomenon of women turning to kekeh driving is a testament to their entrepreneurial spirit and their crucial contribution to both the economy and the social fabric of Sierra Leone.