Moving towards the social inclusion for street vendors in Tanzania: Current situation and perspectives

Abstract

The street vending business is an ancient type of informal economy found everywhere in the developing world. Street vendors are essential because they create employment, livelihood, income, and distribute low-priced goods. However, despite their importance, street vendors are socially excluded from the mainstream economic structure hence becoming marginalized and victims of the law, policies and regulations. This research explores street vendors' social exclusion domains in Tanzania and investigates strategies for mitigating such exclusion. The study used qualitative data collected from street vendors, policymakers, and non-government organizations in the street vending business. The results show that street vendors are excluded in many domains, including legal, financial, participation in urban planning, taxation, and access to a business location. The study identified different strategies to bring the social inclusion of street vendors. The findings inform the ongoing debate on bringing the inclusion of the informal sector and making it responsive for economic growth and poverty reduction. The findings imply that, unless the root that causes social exclusion and discrimination are addressed, it will challenge to achieve street vendors' growth and poverty reduction.