Comparative analysis of the small scale economic activities in two neighbourhoods of nairobi city: Kariobangi and Makadara

Abstract

This study examines the economic performance of the planned and unplanned small scale economic activities in low income neighbourhoods of the city of Nairobi. Most studies on the subject have tended to raise the need for planning of the economic activities. It is assumed that planning for such activities will enhance their performance. The study adopted three measures of performance; income, output and employment levels. In examining the observation, a comparison case of two areas is done; planned and unplanned small scale manufacturing and repair activities sites both within low income neighbourhoods in Nairobi. The major findings of the study show that planned activities perform better than the unplanned. However, economic performance is influenced by factors such as initial investments, availability of working space, and marketing of the products. access to infrastructural services Planned activities were significantly provided with the above parameters than the unplanned ones. The findings of this study recommends the integration of the above factors in the planning for the location of the manufacturing and repair activities.