An intersectionality-based policy analysis of COVID-19 measures and women informal food vendors in Kisumu, Kenya

Introduction: Women working as informal food vendors in Kisumu faced precarious work conditions that worsened during the COVID-19 pandemic. Despite playing a vital role in urban household food security, they were excluded from policy decisions, which were largely confined to technical experts and national government officials. Methods: Using the Intersectionality-Based Policy Analysis (IBPA) framework, this study examined the engagement of women informal food vendors and the disparities in COVID-19 control policies. Between July 10, 2024, and October 15, 2024, we conducted a qualitative study using key informant interviews (n = 20), in-depth interviews (n = 20), four focus group discussions (n = 40; 10 participants each), and a purposive review of four policy documents. Participants were recruited via purposive sampling in collaboration with Pamoja Community Based Organisation, and data were analyzed thematically guided by the IBPA principles. Results: The findings indicate that excluding women vendors from decision-making led to gender-insensitive policies that worsened existing inequalities by overlooking the vendors’ diverse social identities. Furthermore, inconsistent policy implementation increased gender-based vulnerabilities, leaving these women exposed to harassment, extortion, and physical assault. Discussion: To prepare for future emergencies, governments must establish inclusive, gender-responsive policy frameworks that prioritize the perspectives of informal food vendors, thereby safeguarding sustainable urban food systems. Specifically, municipal, county, and national authorities should create consultative mechanisms to ensure women informal food vendors actively participate in decision-making processes. Such integration will foster gender-sensitive policy development and keep vendors’ lived experiences central to urban food governance. Ultimately, this research demonstrates the value of applying an intersectional policy analysis framework to health research, advancing equity and social justice by strengthening the participation of marginalized groups in emergency response and regulatory planning.