Surviving in Nairobi when you’re broke and jobless can be tough, but with the right mindset and strategies, it’s possible to navigate through difficult times. Here are 15 practical ways to survive and even thrive in Nairobi under such circumstances:
1. Look for Temporary Jobs (Kazi ya Mkono)
- What: Engage in casual work like construction, cleaning, or manual labor (mjengo). Temporary jobs may not be glamorous, but they can provide essential income.
- How: Check out sites like Jiji, social media, or visit construction sites for opportunities.
2. Freelancing or Online Gigs
- What: Tap into freelancing platforms or social media to offer services such as writing, graphic design, or virtual assistance. Websites like Upwork, Fiverr, and even social media platforms can help you find gigs.
- How: Use your skills to offer services like transcription, content writing, or online tutoring.
3. Tight Budgeting
- What: Create a strict budget for food, transport, and essentials. Focus on necessities and cut back on luxuries.
- How: Track every shilling you spend, plan your meals, and avoid unnecessary expenses like eating out.
4. Take Advantage of Social Connections
- What: Lean on your friends and family for support. Nairobi thrives on networks, and someone you know might know of an opportunity.
- How: Let your circle know you’re looking for work or side gigs. You may get recommendations or even financial assistance.
5. Use Public Resources
- What: Nairobi has several public resources like free internet access at community centers and libraries. Use these to look for job opportunities.
- How: Visit community libraries, public cyber cafés, or social halls for free or affordable internet access to search for jobs.
6. Sell Unwanted Items
- What: Sell items you no longer need, such as old clothes, electronics, or furniture.
- How: Use platforms like Jiji, PigiaMe, or Facebook Marketplace to sell your items. You can also sell them in second-hand markets like Gikomba.
7. Do Small Business
- What: Engage in small business ventures like selling snacks, mitumba (second-hand clothes), or fruit in your neighborhood.
- How: Start with minimal capital to sell easily accessible items such as smokies, boiled eggs, or groundnuts.
8. Crowdfunding or Peer Support
- What: Seek financial support from friends, family, or through crowdfunding platforms like M-Changa.
- How: Be transparent about your situation and offer a plan for how you’ll utilize the support, even if it’s just to get through tough times.
9. Barter Trade
- What: If you have skills or items, consider trading them for things you need. Bartering is a good way to get by without spending money.
- How: Offer services like cleaning, tutoring, or mending in exchange for food or shelter.
10. Join SACCOs or Chamas
- What: SACCOs (Savings and Credit Cooperatives) or chamas (informal saving groups) can be a lifeline during tough times.
- How: If you are part of one, you may be able to access a small loan or financial help. Many communities or neighborhoods have such groups.
11. Take Advantage of Free Food Programs
- What: Some religious institutions, churches, or charitable organizations offer free meals to people in need.
- How: Find out which churches or community centers offer meals. Participate respectfully and when absolutely necessary.
12. Share Accommodation
- What: If rent is your major issue, consider moving in with friends or family temporarily to save on rent.
- How: Share living space with someone to cut down on costs. This can help you pool resources and save on expenses.
13. Walk or Use Cheaper Transport
- What: Minimize transportation costs by walking short distances or using cheaper alternatives like boda bodas (motorbike taxis).
- How: Plan your errands around areas you can walk to, or use apps like SafeBoda for more affordable rides.
14. Offer Local Services
- What: Consider offering small services within your estate, such as washing clothes, running errands, or car washing.
- How: Approach neighbors or post in local WhatsApp groups to let people know about your services.
15. Hustle in Local Markets
- What: Gikomba, Toi, or Kangemi markets are great places to start small hustles like buying and reselling items, especially clothing.
- How: Purchase affordable second-hand items and resell them at a small profit margin. Build relationships with suppliers for better prices.
Tips for Surviving When Broke:
- Stay Positive: The job market can be tough, but keep a positive mindset and stay persistent in seeking opportunities.
- Keep Networking: Nairobi operates on networks—continue meeting new people, attending community events, and sharing your availability.
- Learn New Skills: Use your free time to take free or cheap online courses to improve your qualifications. Websites like Coursera and edX often have free options.
