Factors contributing to domestic trafficking of women and children in Mukuru slums in Nairobi

Abstract

This study discusses factors contributing to domestic trafficking of women and children in mukuru slums in Nairobi. The main objective of the study was to investigate factors contributing to domestic trafficking of women and children in Mukuru slum in Nairobi. The specific objective of the study was to identify the socio economic factors contributing to domestic trafficking of women and children in Mukuru slum in Nairobi; investigate the cultural factors that contributes to domestic trafficking of women and children in Mukuru slum; and, to establish knowledge and perceptions of the people living in Mukuru slum in relation to domestic trafficking of women and children.

The research used both probability and non probability sampling method. Relevant data was collected using questionnaire, key informant interviews and in-depth interviews. Descriptive statics was used to summarize the quantitative data into frequencies and percentages with the help of SPSS (Stastical Package for Social Science) while Qualitative data was analyzed manually, a coding system was developed and the data categorized into the emerging themes. An analysis of the findings indicate that poverty, low level of education and un-employment amongst people are the major socio-economic factors that contribute to domestic human trafficking in Mukuru slum. Gender inequalities and low status of women and girl child are some of the major culturally inclined factors that contribute to domestic trafficking of women and children in the urban informal settlement.

Gender based violation such as domestic violence; sexual violence and genital mutilation are some cultural aspects that contribute to women being vulnerable to traffickers The main conclusion of this study is that women and children are the main the victims of human trafficking because of their vulnerability and susceptibility to such gender based violence and violations. This explains why there is need to have proper checks and balances put in place to help stop these categories of persons from being victims of human trafficking.