Gender Perspectives of Motorcycle Mode of Transport on Male and Female Users in Kisii County, Kenya
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Date
2018
Authors
Omari, Edna K.
Journal Title
Journal ISSN
Volume Title
Publisher
Kenyatta University
Abstract
Motorcycles have become a popular means of transport in most parts of the world. Indeed, in the
last 10 years the number of motorcycles has doubled in many developing countries. The purpose
of the study was to examine the gender perspectives of motorcycle transport in Keumbu subcounty,
Kisii County. The objectives of the study were to establish the demographic
characteristics of customers of motorcycle mode of transport in terms of gender, examine the
socio-economic effects of motorcycle transport on men and women; explore safety and health
problems that afflict men and women whouse this mode of transport and to identify gender
sensitive strategies to mitigate the negative effects of motorcycle transport in Keumbu Sub-
County, Kisii County.The study employed descriptive survey design. The study utilised
purposive sampling technique to select respondents. The study was guided by A Social Role
Theory. Data collection instruments included, interview schedules and focus group discussions
guide. Data collection techniques included administration of interviews and focus group
discussions to the respondents,secondary data was gathered in the period between 2011 to 2015.
Data was analysed using the Statistical Package for Social Sciences (SPSS) and was presented
in form of frequencies, percentages, tables and figures. The findings indicated that the frequent
users of motorcycle transport in Keumbu Sub-County, Kisii County were school going boys and
girls and male and female adults who engaged in trade and professional duties. The socioeconomic
issues that emanated from motorcycle transport include moral decay, drug abuse and
school drop out. The safety and health problems associated with motorcycle transport included
criminal activities, respiratory diseases and impotence. The gender sensitive strategies to curb
the negative effects of motorcycle transport included sensitization of motorcycle users on health
risks and security measures and institutionalization of gender sensitive policies and regulations to
ensure proper utilization of motorcycles. The conclusions of the study were that motorcycle
transport was a popular mode of transport and had social, economic, safety and health challenges
affecting male and female residents of Keumbu Sub-County, Kisii County. The study
recommended the adoption of the following strategies; promotion of protective clothing,
sensitization on appropriate security measures and timely medical care for motorcycle users.
The areas for futher study include a similar study in other parts of the country to increase
generalizability of the study findings across Kenya and a study aimed at improving the
operations of motorcycles in order to attract more women operators
Description
A Research Thesis Submitted to the School of Humanities and Social Sciences in Partial Fulfilment of the Requirements for the Award of the Degree of Master of Arts in Gender and Development Studies of Kenyatta University. September, 2018