This archive report was first published on 11 December 2019.
Published on December 11, 2019, a day when the harsh realities of being a hustler in Kenya were laid bare by the rain and sunshine.
As people waited for buses in the rain, walked in the downpour, and had dirty water splashed on them by careless motorists, it was clear that the weather was taking a toll on the country's hustlers.
High-rise buildings, often the residences of hustlers, were more prone to collapse during heavy rainfall, leaving many without a roof over their heads.
On the other hand, the sunshine brought its own set of challenges, including the struggle to pay for power and the difficulty of harvesting water in apartments or slums.
However, the sunshine also presented an opportunity for hustlers to tap into solar power, which was cheaper and more accessible than traditional electricity.
Furthermore, the weather allowed for cheaper clothing, as people wore less in the heat.
Despite the challenges posed by the weather, Kenya's hustlers continued to drive the economy, often without recognition or support.
It was time for the country to address the needs of its hustlers, both in good and bad weather, and to close the fissures in its socio-economic systems.
As the author noted, 'We can never be the same. Even our IQ are different and not for the fault of our own.'
It was a call to action, one that would require a deliberate effort to mitigate the suffering of Kenya's hustlers and to recognize their importance in the country's economy.
