Aasai

Irene Nekesa, a mother of two and content creator, shared her difficult experience as a first-time househelp in Nairobi. Coming from a village where food was plentiful, she was unprepared for the harsh realities of city life. Her employer in Eastleigh rationed her food, sometimes giving her only a single spoonful of food, and even hid food from her. This was a stark contrast to her life back home where she could eat her fill. The employer was also verbally abusive and the living conditions were difficult. Despite the hardships, Irene tried to adapt, secretly cooking extra food when her employer was out. Her first job was a shocking and unpleasant introduction to working life in the city.

Irenes first employers home was not only a place of discomfort but also one filled with harshness. She quickly learned that food was scarce, and her employer, who was known to be abusive, made her life even more difficult.

Irenes first job as a househelp in Nairobi was a stark contrast to her life in the village. Used to eating large portions, she was shocked to receive only a single spoonful of food and was forbidden from using the gas. She secretly cooked extra food, like a kilogram of rice, when her employer was out, supplementing her meager daily allowance of two slices of bread and tea. 

 After only two weeks, the insufficient food and harsh environment became too much to bear, and she quit. Though a difficult experience, it ultimately led her to other opportunities, including working for Bahati and Diana Marua, and eventually to a successful career as a content creator. Now, she shares her experiences and offers support to other young women facing similar challenges.