The sustainable livelihoods of informal artisan entrepreneurs in tourism : a case of Kenya

Kiptoo, Maryline Jepkosgei

Thesis

The sustainable livelihoods of informal artisan entrepreneurs in tourism : a case of Kenya

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Creator

Kiptoo, Maryline Jepkosgei

Rights statement

Strathclyde Thesis Copyright

Awarding institution

University of Strathclyde

Date of award

2023

Thesis identifier

T16723

Person Identifier (Local)

201955579

Qualification Level

Doctoral (Postgraduate)

Qualification Name

Doctor of Philosophy (PhD)

Department, School or Faculty

Department of Work, Employment and Organisation

Abstract

The tourism industry is a source of livelihood for many people as it creates employment and business opportunities. Nonetheless, the industry experiences many fluctuations and instabilities that threaten the livelihoods of those who depend on it. These threats are more intense for informal artisan entrepreneurs in tourism, who also grapple with enormous challenges in the informal sector despite their persistent work in the context. Thus, this exploratory research aims to understand how informal artisan entrepreneurs sustain their livelihoods while facing challenges in the informal sector and the tourism industry. The study uses the conceptual lens of the Sustainable Livelihoods Approach (SLA) and framework alongside the concepts of resilience, vulnerability and culture. It incorporates 51 telephone interviews with 32 artisans and 5 institutions in Kenya, conducted over two phases, and includes document analysis, field notes and researcher diaries. In doing so, the study draws key methodological considerations for conducting remote qualitative data collection and engaging with marginalised participants in Sub-Saharan Africa. The findings show that artisans experience constant challenges such as poverty, an indecent work environment, and inadequate institutional support. Nevertheless, their exposure to vulnerable conditions is paradoxically matched with resilience. The artisans’ resilience stems from their agency and socio-cultural structures, which have allowed them to combine different resources to sustain their livelihoods, cope with challenges, and persist in making handicrafts. Theoretically, the study creates a modified framework for sustainable livelihood analysis. It also challenges how resilience is conceptualised in sustainable livelihoods and entrepreneurship and suggests how it should be conceptualised. Relatedly, it draws insights into the paradoxical relationship between resilience and vulnerability. Hence, it contributes to the understanding of resilience in sustainable livelihoods. Notably, the study extends the body of knowledge on informal artisan entrepreneurs in tourism, who have proven unique in their characteristics and how they sustain their livelihoods.

Advisor / supervisor