1.6 Structure of this Report

Emerging evidence on the impact of COVID-19 suggests that women’s economic and productive lives have been affected disproportionately in comparison with men. This is because women earn less, save less, and are more likely to be employed in the informal sector. Their capacity to absorb economic shocks is therefore less than that of men. Women are also the majority of front-line health workforce and caregivers and therefore at higher risk. Cultural factors may restrict women’s access to information and services, and some women may be particularly affected, e.g. Older women living alone, and isolation may lead to an increased risk of violence in the home.

Young people are already among the most affected by the socio-economic impacts of COVID-19. In addition to losing employment, the closure of businesses, and the need to keep away from schools and universities, the youth are also at high risk of increased anxiety and mental health problems. Additionally, the youth make up more than 30% of the migrants and refugees’ population who are likely disproportionately affected due to limited movement and fewer employment opportunities caused by the pandemic. Young women and girls are also at high risk of many forms of domestic and gender-based violence during the pandemic. Persons with disability have been left without vital support and advocacy due to social distancing. The majority of PWD in SUED Municipalities operate small businesses in market centres, which have been adversely affected therefore they have experienced loss of livelihood. For PWD that rely on their hands for walking and are sole breadwinners, the question of not touching surfaces is not applicable and they therefore are at high risk of being infected with COVID-19.

Street families are also highly exposed to the danger of the virus because they lack shelter. Many of them rely on market centres where they ferry goods for a wage, and with the closure of markets they have lost livelihoods.

COVID-19 Impacts in KKM

A business survey and engagement with local stakeholders has revealed that COVID-19 has had an impact on the entire economy. Trade on the markets have been reported to have significantly declined. One trader indicated a 90% drop in revenues, and a restock every 1 or 2 months instead of every 3 weeks before the pandemic. Another trader said they went from selling 8 to 10 bags of cereals per day to just 1 to 2 on market days. The closure of schools and universities has led many young people to try to work on the market, despite the lack of demand.

Lack of demand for agricultural products has created an overproduction of most products, leading to price drops and considerable wastage. Farmers and traders have had difficulties repaying loans, leading to financial instability at the macroeconomic level.