Practical Strategies for Domestic Workers in Kenya to Improve Their Lives

Domestic work is one of the most common yet undervalued professions in Kenya. Many households employ domestic workers, but their salaries often range from KES 5,000 to KES 15,000, with anything above KES 10,000 considered a ‘good wage’—when in reality, it isn’t. Many live with their employers, cutting down on expenses like rent and transport, but that doesn’t mean they have disposable income. Many also face ‘black tax’—having to financially support family members back home.

The Reality of Domestic Work in Kenya

Domestic workers are busy in the mornings and evenings when children are going to school or returning home, but they often have free time in the afternoons. Unfortunately, many spend these hours watching Nigerian movies, TikTok videos, or engaging in gossip with fellow housemaids. While rest is important, this free time could also be used to improve their financial situation and personal growth.

You Are Not Part of the Family – Maintain Professional Boundaries

One of the biggest misconceptions domestic workers fall into is believing they are ‘part of the family.’ While a good working relationship with your employer is important, getting too familiar can lead to exploitation and disrespect. Remember:

You are an employee, not a family member. Employers can be friendly, but at the end of the day, you are on a job. Mixing personal and professional lines can lead to unpaid extra duties, lack of boundaries, and emotional manipulation.
The children are not yours. Many domestic workers get emotionally attached to their employer’s kids while their own children suffer from a lack of attention. Stay professional—take care of them well, but don’t forget to check on your own kids.
You deserve time to check on your family. Even if you live in, you should have scheduled breaks to communicate with your children and family, at least digitally.
Negotiate perks like a phone upgrade. If a salary increment isn’t forthcoming, discuss options like a better phone that allows you to manage your personal life better.

Negotiating Fair Contracts and Understanding Your Rights

Many domestic workers operate without a clear contract, leading to exploitation. Before taking a job, consider:

What does your job description include? Some employers will ask you to tutor their kids, run business errands, or work beyond your agreed hours without extra pay.
Are you expected to be part of family holidays? If so, is there extra compensation or better working conditions during that time?
How will additional tasks be compensated? If a child’s grades improve because of your tutoring, should you get a bonus? If you cook for family gatherings, should you be paid extra?

Better Use of Free Time: Learning and Side Businesses

Instead of wasting hours on entertainment, domestic workers can use their free time to learn new skills or start small businesses.

Investment and Savings That Work

M-Shwari Lock Savings Account: Instead of keeping money where it’s easy to withdraw, lock savings for 3-4 months and invest in something that generates income.
Table Banking or Chamas: Join trusted groups that allow you to save and borrow collectively.
Avoid sending money home aimlessly. Support your family, but ensure your own stability first. Consider boarding school for your kids if black tax is overwhelming.

Small Businesses That Can Work

Hair Plaiting & Beauty Services: If you learn to braid hair well, neighbors and even your employer may become customers.
Chapati & Mandazi Business: Become known in the neighborhood as the best chapati or pilau cook. Charge reasonable rates and offer convenience.
Baking Side Hustle: If your employer allows, you can bake for extra income while also benefiting them.
Online Learning: If your employer has Wi-Fi, use it to improve cooking, budgeting, or financial management skills.

Final Thoughts

Domestic work is hard, but it doesn’t have to be a dead-end job. Understanding your rights, setting clear boundaries, and using your free time wisely can significantly improve your financial stability and personal development. Instead of being overworked and underpaid indefinitely, start positioning yourself for better opportunities. With smart strategies, even domestic workers can take control of their lives and futures.

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