Downsizing to Uphold Livelihoods: The Plight of Mama Mboga Amid Harsh Economic Times

In Kenya's bustling urban and peri-urban areas, the familiar sight of the "Mama Mbogas" has become an integral part of the local landscape. These resilient traders, who set up their grocery stalls near residential neighbourhoods, have become residents' go-to source for fresh produce and essential household items.

However, the harsh economic realities that have gripped the country recently have not spared these small-scale entrepreneurs. Faced with skyrocketing living costs and dwindling consumer purchasing power, the Mama Mbogas have had to adjust their business plans to stay afloat.

One of the most common tactics employed by these resourceful women is the reduction of product sizes while maintaining the same price points.

Christine Bundi, a Mama Mboga in the Kiamunyi area of Nakuru, explained, "For any business to be profitable, you have to calculate your expenses and the cost of preparing your goods. The businessperson has to reduce the quantity to cover the expenses and still make a profit. The prices of commodities are so high that we have to offer a size that is affordable for the customer while also ensuring we can recoup our costs and make a profit."

The ripple effects of this approach, however, have not gone unnoticed. Customers accustomed to buying a certain quantity for a fixed price have expressed disappointment, with some opting to take their business elsewhere.

Janet Otieno, another Mama Mboga, lamented, "Since some of my customers were used to buying a certain size of produce at a fixed price, reducing the size eventually discourages them from buying from my stall."

The Mama Mbogas' plight is further compounded by the challenges of sourcing their goods from wholesalers. Factors such as transportation costs and the divide-and-sell tactics some wholesalers employ have added to the burdens they face.

"We understand our customers. But we have no choice since we also want to gain profits out of this business,” Janet added.

Like any other Kenyan, Mama Mbogas also feel the pain of buying expensive goods. “Just yesterday, I bought rice, and when you look at it, you will realize it has reduced significantly; it is almost half of what it used to be,” she added.