‘Michochoro’ (Swahili for alleyways) is a series of mixed media artworks

reflecting on my experience of navigating the city of Nairobi as a pedestrian. This project began as an exploration of how michochoro could be a possible solution to ease congestion in Nairobi’s central business district (CBD). I have often used these alleyways as shortcuts during rush hour when the main streets are congested. However, these alleyways are usually characterised by gloomy and unsanitary conditions that encourage criminal activities. Urban dwellers caught up in the fast-paced rhythm of the city have to take a gamble. They have to decide whether moving from one point to another as fast as possible is worth the risk of taking shortcuts through these michochoro.  For this reason, they are unappealing alternative routes for many pedestrians.