Labor Hiring Practices and Produce Supply Chains in Rural Kenya: the Case for WishVast Networking

Abstract

Currently, the ability for individuals in rural communities such as western Kenya to connect and access the resources they need in order to improve their economic and/or social situation is largely limited to the size of their social network. Due to the importance of trust to this society, it can be very difficult to increase the size of one’s network for making transactions and doing business. This paper describes several possible applications of a working concept called WishVast that will help people expand their social networks, explore more opportunities, and share more information. WishVast is a social networking platform that leverages the power of cellphones and SMS messaging for the goals of helping individuals to increase social capital and build trust, ultimately helping to alleviate poverty. Cellphones are an appropriate technology because of the rapid rate of adoption and widespread availability of handsets and service throughout Kenya. The applications outlined are the labor hiring process and produce supply chain integration and how WishVast can promote inclusion and reduce inefficiencies. The information presented is the result of a semester-long project and three weeks of travel to Nyeri, Kenya.