'Uchuuzi na Umachinga', street business in Dar es Salaam : challenges, problems, and prospects

Abstract

Street vending business plays a significant role in Dar es Salaam City's informal economy, providing livelihoods and local food accessibility. However, the government still views street vendors as a nuisance to the city rather than a contributor to national economic growth. This study aimed to identify the challenges, problems, and prospects of street vending in Dar es Salaam. It applied a qualitative case study method with a descriptive cross-sectional design. The study utilised purposive and snowball sampling methods to collect data from 50 street vendors at Mwenge Coca-Cola and Bunju B markets in Kinondoni Municipality, as well as seven key government and non-government informants. The study findings showed that the challenges and problems of street vending included a lack of access to credit and financial services from relevant institutions, a lack of unity and cooperation among vendors, environmental adversities, and political discord between stakeholders. The study suggests increasing training and education for capacity building and strengthening a participatory approach for street vending businesses in Dar es Salaam.