Commercialising traditional market shares: A qualitative study of impacted peasant livelihoods in Copperbelt province, Zambia

Abstract

ABSTRACT The perceived impact of commercialisation on peasant livelihoods was examined in this qualitative study. To understand the scope of commercialisation for open-air goods, an inventory of large grocery retailers and open-air markets (OAMs) in Zambia’s Copperbelt Province was completed. Interviews were conducted with sellers (n = 100) and urban consumers (n = 40). More than 80% of market sellers reported a reduction in sales and more than 80% of households indicated they shopped less often at OAMs because they could buy similar items cheaper at large retailers. Findings suggest targeted investment in seller cooperatives and small retailers would improve livelihoods and urban food security.