Gendered analysis of the effect of displacement on labor market outcomes : a focus on Nairobi County, Kenya

This study investigates how socio-economic characteristics, migration status, and country of origin influence labor market outcomes in Nairobi County, Kenya. By estimating logit and Tobit models using data from the Kenya Refugee and Host Household Survey (KRHHS), we find that age is positively associated with the likelihood of being employed and higher incomes, but this relationship diminishes beyond a certain point. Gender disparities are pronounced, with women being less likely to be employed and generally earning less than men. Larger households are associated with lower employment probabilities, reflecting greater domestic responsibilities for household heads. Local community members are more likely to be employed and earn more than refugees, who face substantial labor market barriers such as legal restrictions and lack of social networks. Having a university education is associated with being employed with higher earnings, compared to workers with either primary or secondary education. Having never been married is positively associated with being employed. Employment and income vary significantly by country of origin, highlighting the complex interplay between integration and discrimination factors in local communities. These findings underscore the need to address educational and gender inequalities that prevail between refugees and local communities.