SOCIO-ECONOMIC DETERMINANTS OF SUSTAINABLE LIVELIHOODS AMONG SINGLE MOTHERS: A CASE STUDY OF PRO LIFE AND KWPTI, KARIOBANGI NORTH, NAIROBI COUNTY

Abstract

The sustainability of single mothers' livelihoods presents a significant challenge, particularly in informal settlements. This study investigated the influence of socio-economic factors on the sustainability of single mothers' livelihoods in Kariobangi North, Nairobi County, Kenya. Specifically, the study sought to: examine the influence of access to education on the sustainability of single mothers' livelihoods, Assess the role of employment opportunities on livelihood sustainability, evaluate the impact of social support on the sustainability of single mothers' livelihoods and finally measure the influence of income levels on livelihood sustainability in Kariobangi North. The study was anchored on three theoretical perspectives namely Social Capital Theory, Human Capital Theory, and the Sustainable Livelihood Approach. The study employed a qualitative research approach using a case study design focused on the Kariobangi Women Promotion Training Institute and the Pro-Life Organization. It sampled 26 single mothers and 4 key informants, with data collection using interviews, observations and analyzed using thematic analysis. The study revealed that single mothers face limited access to education due to financial constraints, which subsequently restricts their employment opportunities. Employment opportunities remain severely limited, forcing single mothers to depend on informal or casual work that is irregular, poorly remunerated, and lacks social protection. Social support emerged as both a source of sustenance and a challenge. Income level was identified as the most pressing issue, with most mothers struggling to meet basic needs. The study recommended that first that organizations and institutions prioritizing single mothers should strengthen scholarship funds and bursary programs specifically targeting this demographic, enabling access to vocational training programs for employment and selfreliance. It also recommended that small-scale enterprises should be supported through microfinance initiatives and capacity-building programs. Third, it recommended that community leaders and relevant agencies should establish and strengthen social support networks, including self-help groups and savings circles. Finally, it recommended that access to microcredit and affordable loans should be expanded to enable single mothers to start and sustain small businesses.