This archive report was first published on 16 July 2020.
On a typical day in Nairobi, women are increasingly becoming cautious about their safety when moving around the city. In response to this growing concern, a unique taxi service has emerged to cater specifically to the needs of female customers.
Founded by Mehnaz Sarwa, An Nisa Taxi is an all-female cab service that has been making a name for itself in Nairobi and other parts of the country. The service is designed to provide a safe and secure transportation option for women, who often feel vulnerable when traveling alone.
According to Sarwa, the idea behind An Nisa Taxis is to create a safe space for women to travel without worrying about their safety. 'We only employ female drivers,' she explains. 'The idea is to provide a safe space for women when they are going around, whether it's for work, with their kids, or on their own.'
Since 2014, the number of female cab drivers in the country has more than doubled, with many women turning to this profession as a way to feel more secure while on the job. As Sarwa notes, 'A woman is more vulnerable when she is alone, not with a male, with a husband or a brother... Unfortunately for a man, when they enter a taxi, they don't have to think about these things.'
As a Muslim woman, Sarwa has also faced stigma and challenges as a female business owner. However, she remains committed to her vision of providing a safe and secure transportation option for women in Nairobi and beyond.
