Social protection ‘from below’: micro traders and their collective associations in Tanzania

Abstract

ABSTRACT This article explores the social protection coverage, needs, and preferences of informal micro traders in Tanzania. In particular, it examines the social protection models implemented ‘from below’ by traders’ own collective associations. Using original survey and interview data, the paper shows how social protection offered by public channels often suffers from a narrow scope and fails to correspond with the key challenges experienced by informal traders. In contrast, social protection models ‘from below’ implemented by the traders’ own associations, are directed towards timely, flexible, but also limited cushioning against multiple relevant needs. While they help manage the implications of precariousness rather than challenging their causes, they nonetheless illustrate a format closer attuned to the needs and realities of informal micro traders. Hence, this paper calls for a broadening of both academic and policy discussions in the field of social protection from the current narrow focus on formal schemes only.