Workplace Violence among Domestic Workers in Urban Households in Kenya: A Case of Nairobi City

Abstract

This paper discusses findings of a study conducted in 2004/2005 on the prevalence and impact of domestic labour migration in Nairobi. Specifically, the paper examines the profile of domestic workers and extent of their vulnerability and exposure to different forms of abuse. The study integrated both qualitative and quantitative research techniques to attain its objectives. The qualitative approach included key informant survey and in-depth interviews. The quantitative approach on the other hand involved a cross-sectional household stratified sample survey in urban residential areas in Nairobi. The results reveal that overall, children account for a higher proportion of domestic workers, most of them girls from poor family backgrounds. Child domestic workers in Nairobi face many workplace social hazards that include injury, verbal harassment and sexual abuse. Based on these findings, the study makes appropriate policy recommendations.

Eastern African Social Sciences Review Vol. 23 (1) 2007: pp. 37-60