COVER PAGE

WOMEN’S UNIVERSITY IN AFRICA

FACULTY OF SOCIAL SCIENCE AND GENDER DEVELOPMENT

Dissertation title

By

(Jacqueline Masiiwa W191949)

RESEARCH PROJECT SUBMITED TO THE WOMEN’S UNIVERSITY IN AFRICA IN

PARTIAL FULFILMENT OF THE REQUIREMENTS FOR BACHELOR OF

SCIENCE HONOURS DEGREE IN SOCIAL WORK

SUPERVISOR: Mr. Sadomba

Year: 2023

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 RELEASE FORM

NAME OF STUDENT : Jacqueline Masiiwa

STUDENT NUMBER : W191949

TITLE OF RESEARCH : The disengagement from formalized vending. A case

of Mbare Musika

DEGREE TITLE : Bsc Social Work Degree

YEAR OF COMPLETION : 2023

Permission is hereby granted to Women’s University in Africa to produce duplicates of this

dissertation and to lend or sell such copies for private, scholarly or scientific purposes only. The

author does not reserve other publication rights and neither the dissertation nor extensive extracts

from it may be printed or otherwise reproduced without the author’s consent and written

permission.

SIGNED …………………………………………………………….

DATE...........................................................

CONTACT DETAILS:

CELL NUMBER :

DECLARATION FORM

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I Jacqueline Masiiwa hereby declare that this dissertation submitted to Women’s University in

Africa for the research project titled the disengagement from formalized vending has never been

previously submitted by me for a degree at this or any other university, that this is my own work

in design and execution and that all material contained therein has been duly acknowledged.

Signed

…………………………………………………………..

Date

……………………………………………………………

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 ACKNOWLEDGEMENTS

I extend my most heartfelt gratitude to my supervisor for his guidance and support throughout

the course of this dissertation. I would also like to thank Harare City Council for allowing me to

carry out my research. Special thanks to my family and friends (Joyful, Judith, Zvikomborero

and Jillian) for their unwavering support through this journey. Above all glory should be given to

the almighty who began and finished this journey with me.

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 DEDICATION

I dedicate this research to my husband Mr. Delroy Chipamuriwo for his support throughout my

academic journey. My parents Mr and Mrs Masiiwa and my daughter Shanelle for their love and

support as well as their inspiration.

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Contents
COVER PAGE............................................................................................................................................................. i
RELEASE FORM.............................................................................................................................................................ii
DECLARATION FORM....................................................................................................................................................ii
DEDICATION................................................................................................................................................................. v
ACRONYMS..............................................................................................................................................................ix
ABSTRACT.................................................................................................................................................................x
Dissertation marking guide.........................................................................................................................................xii
CHARPTER 1.............................................................................................................................................................. 1
INTRODUCTION AND BACKGROUND......................................................................................................................1
1.1 INTRODUCTION............................................................................................................................................1
1.2 BACKGROUND OF THE STUDY................................................................................................................1
1.3 STATEMENT OF THE PROBLEM..............................................................................................................4
1.4 RESEARCH AIM............................................................................................................................................5
1.5 RESEARCH OBJECTIVES...........................................................................................................................5
1.6 RESEARCH QUESTIONS.............................................................................................................................5
1.7 JUSTIFICATION OF THE STUDY..................................................................................................................5
1.8 DEFINITION OF KEY TERMS....................................................................................................................6
1.8.1 Disengagement............................................................................................................................................6
1.8.2 Formalized.................................................................................................................................................6
1.8.3 Vending.......................................................................................................................................................6
1.9 Delimitations of the study................................................................................................................................6
1.10 CHAPTER SUMMARY................................................................................................................................6
CHAPTER 2................................................................................................................................................................ 7
THEORETICAL FRAMEWORK AND LITERATURE REVIEW.............................................................................7
2.1 INTRODUCTION............................................................................................................................................7
2.2 THEORETICAL FRAMEWORK..................................................................................................................7
2.3 LITERATURE REVIEW................................................................................................................................9
2.3.1 CHALLENGES FACED BY INFORMAL VENDORS IN ACCESSING FORMAL VENDING
LICENSE IN MBARE MUSIKA....................................................................................................................10
2.3.2 Increase in vending license fee................................................................................................................10
2.3.3 Lack of enough business spaces..............................................................................................................10
2.3.4 Lack of involvement of the vendors policy making...............................................................................11

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 2.3.5 Influence from big retail store owners...................................................................................................11
2.4 CHALLENGES EXPERIENCED BY INFORMAL VENDORS...............................................................12
2.4.1 Police brutality and Abuse......................................................................................................................12
2.4.2 Confiscation of goods..............................................................................................................................13
2.4.3 Lack of infrastructure.............................................................................................................................13
2.5.1 Bribery.........................................................................................................................................................14
2.5.2 Mutual savings schemes..........................................................................................................................14
2.5.3 Political bargaining with local authorities or politicians......................................................................15
2.6 CHAPTER SUMMURY................................................................................................................................15
RESEARCH METHODOLOGY...............................................................................................................................16
3.1 INTRODUCTION..........................................................................................................................................16
3.2 Research Approach........................................................................................................................................16
3.3 Research Design.............................................................................................................................................16
3.4 Study setting...................................................................................................................................................17
3.5 Target Population.......................................................................................................................................... 17
3.6 Sampling Procedures.....................................................................................................................................18
3.7 Sample size......................................................................................................................................................18
3.8 Data collection method..................................................................................................................................19
3.8.1. In depth interviews method..................................................................................................................19
3.8.2. Focus groups Discussions Method.........................................................................................................20
3.9 Research Instruments....................................................................................................................................20
3.9.1 Focus group discussion guide.................................................................................................................21
3.9.2 In depth interview guide.........................................................................................................................21
3.10 Data analysis..................................................................................................................................................21
3.11 ENSURING TRUSTWORTHINESS....................................................................................................................23
3.11.1 CREDIBILITY......................................................................................................................................23
3.11.2Transferability........................................................................................................................................24
3.11.3 Conformability........................................................................................................................................24
3.11.4 Dependability.........................................................................................................................................24
3.12 Ethical Considerations...................................................................................................................................25
3.12.1 Informed Consent...................................................................................................................................25
3.12.2 Anonymity and Privacy...........................................................................................................................25
3.12.3. Confidentiality.......................................................................................................................................26
3.13 Limitations of the study................................................................................................................................26
3.14 CHAPTER SUMMARY.....................................................................................................................................26
CHAPTER 4.............................................................................................................................................................. 27
DATA ANALYSIS, PRESENTATION AND DISCUSSION...................................................................................27

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 4.0 INTRODUCTION..........................................................................................................................................27
4.2 CHALLENGES FACED BY INFORMAL VENDORS IN ACCESSING FORMAL VENDING
LICENSES IN MBARE MUSIKA......................................................................................................................28
4.2.1 Expensive vending license fee................................................................................................................28
4.2.2 Poor location of business.........................................................................................................................29
4.2.3 Negative complains from formal traders.................................................................................................31
4.3 CHALLENGES FACED BY INFORMAL VENDORS................................................................................................33
4.3.1 Harassment and Abuse.............................................................................................................................33
4.3.2 Confiscation of goods...............................................................................................................................35
4.3.3 Lake of infrastructure...............................................................................................................................36
4.4 COPING STRATEGIES USED BY INFORMAL VENDORS...................................................................38
4.4.1 Bribery.....................................................................................................................................................38
4.4.2 Involvement of family members..............................................................................................................40
4.4.5 Support from Non-Governmental Organizations.....................................................................................43
4.5 Chapter summary............................................................................................................................................44
CHAPTER FIVE............................................................................................................................................................ 45
SUMMARY OF FINDINGS, CONCLUSION AND RECOMMENDATIONS.........................................................................45
5.0 INTRODUCTION...............................................................................................................................................45
5.1 Summary of findings......................................................................................................................................45
5.1.2 Challenges faced by informal vending in accessing formal vending license............................................46
5.1.2. Challenges faced by informal vendors....................................................................................................46
5.1.3 Coping strategies used by informal vendors............................................................................................47
5.2 Conclusions......................................................................................................................................................47
5.3 Recommendations...........................................................................................................................................48
5.3.1 To the informal vendors...........................................................................................................................48
5.3.2 To the government...................................................................................................................................48
5.3.3 To the City council....................................................................................................................................49
5.3.4 Areas of further study..............................................................................................................................49
5.4 Chapter Summary............................................................................................................................................49
REFERENCE.............................................................................................................................................................50
APPENDIX 1.............................................................................................................................................................53
APPENDIX 1: FOCUS GROUP DISCUSSION GUIDE: PARTICIPANTS.........................................................53
APPENDIX 2: INDEPTH INTERVIEW GUIDE: KEY INFORMANTS...............................................................................55
APPENDIX 1: FOCUS GROUP DISCUSSION GUIDE: PARTICIPANTS.........................................................58
APPENDIX 2: INDEPTH INTERVIEW GUIDE: KEY INFORMANTS...............................................................................60

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ACRONYMS

SLA Sustainable Livelihood Approach

CC City of Harare

HCC Harare City Council

NGO Non Govemental Organisations

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ABSTRACT

This study sought to understand informal vending in Mbare Musika. The specific objective of the
study were to explore the challenges faced by informal vendors in accessing formal vending
licenses, to examine the perceived challenges experienced by informal vendors and to identify
the coping strategies used by informal vendors in selling in the Mbare Musika.it utilized
Sustainable Livelihood theory to understand the challenges faced by informal vendors and how
they sustain their livelihoods. The study adopted qualitative research methodology in order to
enhance the quality of data produced and case study research design to interpret issues in their
context. Convenience sampling was used to sample twelve informal vendors and two key
informants were purposively sampled for the research to obtain data which was thematically
presented. During the study ethical considerations guided the study by employing anonymity and

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confidentiality. The researcher also used in depth interviews and key informants interview It was
noted that, expensive license fee was the major reason informal vendors are not licensed.
However, besides expensive licensing fees other factors such as poor location of business, and
negative influence from formal traders .from the study it was also noted that informal vendors
faces a lot of challenges such as confiscation of goods, harassment from police and abuse .it was
also not that informal vendors came up with coping strategies to help them cope with their
problems such as bribery, involvement in politics and involvement of family members .The
major recommendations to the study were to encourage street vendors to join street vendors
association which will be able to influence policies and regulations guiding street vendors. Also,
to encourage informal vendors to look for more opportunities for formal employment and reduce
the risk to be in conflict with the law.

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Dissertation marking guide

Women’s University in Africa

Department of Social Work
Dissertation marking guide
SW415/DSW218
This section must be completed by the student

STUDENT NAME: Jacqueline Masiiwa

STUDENT REGISTRATION NUMBER: W191949

PROGRAMME: Bachelors Degree in Social Work

MONTH AND YEAR: June 2023

DISSERTATION TITLE : The disengagement from formalized vending. A case of Mbare

Musika

DUE DATE: DATE OF SUBMISSION :02 June 2023

I confirm that I have read and understood the Women’s University in Africa Regulations on
plagiarism.

Student’s signature ______________________ Date_________

............................................................................................................................................

This section is to be completed by the Supervisor.

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I ………………………….confirm that I have supervised………………..during the writing of

his/her dissertation.

Further comments (If any):

Supervisor`s Signature ………………….Date …………………………………….

The following sections to be completed by the examiner

Please note that your recorded marks are in accordance with the criteria given below

1. Abstract: (worth 10%)

Does it give a brief and precise overview (study purpose, setting, objectives, brief methodology,

findings/results, conclusion and recommendations) of the dissertation? Are the items presented
in chronological order?

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2. Study title, Introduction, statement of the problem, aim, objectives and study
justification (worth 10%)

Is the research title, introduction, statement of the problem aim and objectives clearly defined,
contextualised and scientifically grounded? Does the study justification highlight issues related
to gaps in knowledge, beneficiaries of study results and contribution to policy? Is the research
focus and rationale (scope of the research project and reason for choice) given in a clear,
specific and convincing manner?

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3. Literature review (worth 10%)

Does the candidate display a wide range of reading and relevance to research question: are
sources relevant, up-to-date and cover necessary and sufficient ground? Is there a critical
evaluation or critique of previous work: not just a summary but an objective evaluation? Is there
a positioning of research within conceptual/ theoretical framework of the area/discipline(s): overt
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Does the candidate show an appreciation of methodological issues and rationale for chosen
approach: an explanation of the reasons behind the choice of methods and any problems/
limitations that might arise? Is there a demonstration of skill in the selection and use of research
methods, techniques and strategies? Does the dissertation show progression from research
objectives to research findings? Is there an explanation of steps taken to ensure the method
chosen is appropriate and will yield results that can be suitably analysed (Reliability and validity
of methods)? Is there a well-developed awareness and appreciation of ethical issues/ aspects of
the work as relevant to the study on data collection?

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5. Data Presentation, Interpretation, Analysis and synthesis (worth 30 %)

Did the candidate make sense of data, results, information and/or findings? Is data presented
coherently, logically, clearly & succinctly? Is there a thorough, accurate and rigorous analysis of
data? On evaluation and application of theory, did the candidate link the analysis of the data to
theories and data presented by other researchers and evaluating own and others’ data as well as
the theories backed by them?

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6. Summary, Conclusions, and Recommendations (Worth 10 %)

Does the summary give a brief analysis of the findings? Are the conclusions consistent with
analysis, discussion of the research findings? Do conclusions make reference to statement of the
problem, theoretical framework and objectives of the study? Are recommendations consistent
with the objectives and the study findings?

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7. Academic Conventions and contribution to Social Work practice (worth 10%)

Is the dissertation captivating and well presented? - Structure of material (List of contents,
headings, subheadings, footnotes, appendices). Is there a clear appropriate & logical presentation
of data / findings (e.g., graphs, tables etc.)? [If appropriate] Is referencing (both in-text and in the
reference list, Harvard referencing style) and correctness of spelling & grammar ensured?
Relevance of the findings to social work practice. Do the findings relevant to contemporary
social, economic, political and technological problems in Zimbabwe, Africa or global? Does the
model have inputs, outputs and outcomes?

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8. Mark Awarded: Out of 100%

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MARK OUT OF 100 %

50 – 100 =Pass
0 – 49 =Fail

NB: All grades are subject to amendment following internal/external moderation.

Assessment received by …………………………….. Date stamp………………………

Plagiarism in assessed Coursework

A student is liable to be found guilty of plagiarism if any work presented for individual
assessment is found to contain the unacknowledged work of some other person, persons or
organisation. If this involves deliberate misrepresentation of material as the student’s own
attempt to deceive the examiner, then the offence is very grave indeed.

All sources should be cited and all quotations from the works of other authors clearly identified
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such.

If a student’s work is found to contain verbatim (or near verbatim) quotation from the work of
other authors (including other students past or present) without clear acknowledgement, then
plagiarism has been committed whether or not the student intended to deceive the examiners

xvii
CHARPTER 1

INTRODUCTION AND BACKGROUND

1.1 INTRODUCTION

This chapter reveals the background information of the study. It serves to show the statement of
the problem, justification of the study, the aim as well as the objectives of the study. The chapter
will briefly show the research questions. This will be presented on the study tilted, the
disengagement from formalized vending. A case of Mbare musika

1.2 BACKGROUND OF THE STUDY

Informal vending is widespread in urban areas. Since it has been a profession for many years,
street selling today plays a significant role in the economies of the majority of cities (Bromley,
2000). At every big traffic intersection on the sidewalks, different types of individuals may be
found selling or conducting any amusing activity in exchange for a few cents while also cleaning
windshields. Vendors on the streets selling candy or mobile device calls often do so in the
smallest unit, which can be sold by the minute, outside the storefronts of the legal retail sector. In
exchange for a handful pennies, informal workers will help drivers in parking on jammed streets.
In particular areas of the city, the most upmarket street vending exists. The city's marketplaces
for food downtown, and bus stations are some of the best places for the most expensive street
vending. Considering of the intense heat and humidity in California's outdoor settings, street
vendors there usually utilize a larger building, a stand for displaying goods, and a large umbrella.
Unauthorized workers are not properly recognized by the city administration. The local
administration did, however, geo-localize illegal immigrants across the city at the end of of 2019.
Despite the wide range in their numbers and their transience, the authorities did not count the
informal workers at traffic lights. The official 2019 count revealed 10,280 unlicensed vendors
spread out throughout the city. Santa Helena in downtown is where the largest street vending
settlement in the city happens , covering 13 blocks of formal business. . Despite having lower
educational degrees than the average city dweller, Californians nonetheless make, on average,

1
the same or better salary. However, due to a dearth of loans with low interest rates, informal
workers are unable to capitalize on their comparatively high salaries and escape free from the
cycle of poverty. Their absence from borrowing opportunities from regulated financial markets is
one of the primary factors explaining their inability to rise above poverty and poor accumulation
of durable goods (i.e., a house). Unregulated financial markets are not accessible to informal
workers. In Colombia, customers who want to open a savings account or use credit services .
Users in Colombia must generate evidence of employment or confirmation of a trustworthy
source of income for them to open a savings account or access credit services. Also, borrowers
need to make an initial deposit to open a bank account, which, in the case that customers do not
conduct any activities during the month, is used to pay the monthly maintenance costs for a
savings account.

Zambia provides context on the issue of street vending and the government's current approaches.
Late in the 1990s, Zambia's capital city of Lusaka witnessed creation of a brand-new, ultra-
modern market to accommodate street vendors. Prior to starting construction, all vendors who
had been doing their regular business in the area chosen for the new market infrastructure had to
relocate. When the new market first opened, the sellers competed for enough room, but most of
them ended up selling on the streets since they couldn't afford the high operating costs of the
privately run facility (Hansen and Vaa, 2004). As a result, those who could afford to pay
occupied companies while those who couldn't continued to shop the streets. In 1999 there was a
campaign of removal of street vendors from the central business district of Lusaka to occupy
established formal markets was initiated by the local government. However, it was until 2002
that the local government with the help of law enforcement agents such as the paramilitary and
police personnel managed to eliminate vendors off the streets.

As mentioned by Hasan (2004: 76), law enforcement personnel spent a considerable amount of
time stationed in Lusaka's busiest areas to ensure that street sellers wouldn't reappear. This
initiative was driven by the need to improve the health of the city's residents and vendors while
also fostering a conducive environment (Hansen 2004: 68). However, because they could not
generate enough jobs, the local government was unable to accomplish its goal. Traders returned
to the streets as a result of the existing market places becoming congested and lacking utilities
such water supply and sanitation, electricity, and rubbish removal as promised at the beginning

2
of the removal operation (Hansen and Vaa, 2004).. In Zimbabwe, On May 19, 2005, the
government initiated a massive deconstruction of the infrastructure supporting the unofficial
sector. By May 22, 2005, several street sellers whose market stalls had been demolished had
returned to their selling locations (Musoni 2010). Tens of thousands of street vendors could be
observed in Harare and other Zimbabwean towns four years after this “Operation
Murambatsvina” style cleanup operation. While discussions of the “Murambatsvina” blitz have
centered on the reasons it happened and how it damaged lives reliant on the informal sector, little
is known about the vendors who resumed business after the blitz. The operation only demolished
property but the informal vending resumed as people survive on it.

The main city of Zimbabwe, Harare, is home to an estimated 20,000 street vendors who provide
everything from new and old shoes to pirated CDs to sweet potatoes. The sidewalks are littered
with goods, making it dangerous for people to stroll through bus terminals, markets, and the
central business district. The government chooses to have the merchants pack up their items,
register with the government, and pay rent for one of the 6,000 spaces they have provided in
specified zones. Zimbabwe's government before conducting operations always inform sellers that
they would be transferred without their will if they are not licensed. According to Madziba
(2020), Minister Sthembiso Nyoni declared that anyone seen selling in approved vending places
without the necessary paperwork would be halted. Anybody without a card, phone number, or
website to access after the cutoff date will not be able to trade anyplace. Therefore, the reasons
of refusing to comply with government regulations has motivated this study. The streets of
Harare are now adorned with informal businesses, which have emerged as an evident and
problematic point of tension among the attempts by the government's to uphold public peace and
the security of the populace to earn a living. One of the important informal livelihood strategies
used in urban areas of Zimbabwe after the economic collapse on the turn of the millennium is
vending. According to certain arguments, the macro economy and the current political climate
affect how well small businesses succeed

(Odero 2006). Street vendors frequently fail to comply with state regulations for their
commercial enterprises and are a part of a growing informal economy (Flodman-Becker,

3
2004).There are several factors contributing to the informal economy's explosive growth in
developing nations, including the limited capacity of the agricultural and formal economies to
absorb excess labor, entry barriers into the formal sector like high costs and regulations from the
government, inadequate infrastructure provided by institutions, and job losses during structural
programs. Thus, street vendors and the Mbare City Council are involved in a lengthy dispute
over procedural talks because they are unable to work together to create a solid system of market
regulation. The research considers what the roots of friction between the municipalities and
street-vendors-as well as if formalization may address the apparent problems with street vending.
If not, what issues are preventing the formalization of the street vendors in the industry? Thereby
finding the reasons why vendors disengage from formalized vending is the thrust of this research

1.3 STATEMENT OF THE PROBLEM.

Due to the economic meltdown in which high inflation and unemployment has salvaged the
people of Zimbabwe, informal vending has become the escape route to gain finances for
daily living. Regardless of the absence of alternative vending places, the government
continues to evict street vendors from streets, towns and cities and subject them to arbitrary
arrests, harassment, and the confiscation of their goods. In an attempt to curb the increasing
number of informal vendors, the City Council introduced licenses and market places such
that one can be a recognized vendor by the state. Given the economic and political factors,
obtaining these licenses has been difficult. The informal sellers who are jobless, renters, or
poor are the most vulnerable to the issues of informal vending. The elimination of informal
vending might worsen poverty in the country since there will be no source of revenue for
food, education, health, and housing. Although there have been years since this initiative
there has been no research on why people disengage from formal vending. The study’s
intention will be to address this knowledge gap. There is need to establish why formalized
vending is being abandoned such that informed strategies to address the issue can be
undertaken.

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1.4 RESEARCH AIM

The aim of the study is to explore the reasons why vendors disengage from formalized vending
in Mbare.

1.5 RESEARCH OBJECTIVES

1. To explore the challenges faced by informal vendors in accessing formal vending licenses in
Mbare Musika.

2. To examine the perceived challenges experienced by informal vendors in Mbare Musika.

3. To identify the coping strategies used by informal vendors in selling in the Mbare Musika.

1.6 RESEARCH QUESTIONS

1. What are the challenges faced by informal vendors in accessing formal vending licenses in
Mbare Musika?

2. What are the perceived challenges experienced by informal vendors in Mbare Musika?

3. What are the coping strategies used by informal vendors in selling in the Mbare Musika?

1.7 JUSTIFICATION OF THE STUDY

The research's findings are intended to highlight the perspectives of street vendors so that people
can better understand why they do not conduct business in official, approved markets. This is
going to help in the generation of useful information that will enlighten policymakers so that
they are able to comprehend the dynamics of at least by taking into consideration the merchants'
voices when doing street vending. Since chances for intervention and policy gaps will be
identified, local development practitioners will also get more insight into handling the issue of
street vending. The study's findings will add to the body of information about why market
infrastructure is not utilized by street vendors. The majority of research focuses on the positive
aspects of and advantages of having street vendors.

5
1.8 DEFINITION OF KEY TERMS

1.8.1 Disengagement –according to Landry and Bryson (2004) disengagement refers to the
action or process of withdrawing from involvement in a situation, activity or group.

1.8.2 Formalized – (Mcmiller, 2020) defined formalized as officially sanctioned or recognized

give formal status or approval.

1.8.3 Vending -Elissa et al. (2019) states that vending means the selling of goods either or selling
of things, from stall or from a slot of machine

1.9 Delimitations of the study

The study was carried out in Mbare Musika, Zimbabwe’s busiest market place which is situated
in Mbare, Harare in Zimbabwe. The place is filled with much vending activities of both formal
and informal vendors. Nevertheless, the study was confined to informal vendors.

1.10 CHAPTER SUMMARY

This chapter ascertained the background of the study, the statement of the problem, justification
of the study, its aim, research questions, its objectives as well as definition of key terms.

CHAPTER 2

6
THEORETICAL FRAMEWORK AND LITERATURE REVIEW

2.1 INTRODUCTION

This chapter focuses on reviewing literature on informal vending. A brief history on how
informal vending takes place in different parts of the world is also to be provided in this chapter.
This chapter will look at the theoretical framework relating it to the area under study.

2.2 THEORETICAL FRAMEWORK

Theories are created in order to clarify, forecast, and comprehend a phenomenon. They are also
frequently created in order to push the boundaries of what is currently known while staying
within certain bounds. The structure that a research study's hypothesis can be held or supported
by is known as the theoretical framework. The theory that explains why the research problem
under study arises is introduced and described in the theoretical framework. To understand the
reasons behind disengagement from formalized vending this study adopted the Sustainable
Livelihoods Approach. The Sustainable Livelihoods Approach (SLA) developed by the British
Department for International Development (DFID) in 2000 was adopted as the theoretical
framework informing the study. The approach articulates how the livelihoods of the informal
vendors are affected by shocks, trend, and seasonality in their livelihood context. The central
concept in the SLA is sustainable livelihoods. According to Chambers and Conway (1992:9) “A
livelihood is sustainable when it can cope with and recovers from unexpected events and stresses
and shocks and preserve or enhance its capabilities and resources both now and in the years to
come, while without harming the natural resource base.” Put in other words, livelihoods are
sustainable when people can meet their basic needs to survive. A livelihood is also sustainable if
it can withstand external stresses and strains, and if it is self-sufficient, and if it can preserve
long-term productivity of natural resources and does not jeopardize other people ‘s livelihoods
(GLOPP, 2008). The theory was used to understand why informal vendors choose to be at the
risk of detainment by city council officers rather than be safe as formalized vendors.

7
Humans employ five livelihood elements to maintain their livelihoods namely human capital,
financial capital, social capital, natural capital, and physical capital (DFID, 2000). Human capital
refers to the skills, knowledge, ability to labor, and good health that enable individuals to pursue
different livelihood strategies and achieve their livelihood objectives (DFID, 2000). Therefore,
employment is required for individuals to survive. Social capital is defined as faith, mutual
cooperation, and similar attitudes and actions that unite the members of human networks and
communities and make cooperative action possible (Cohen & Prusak, 2001). Humans can share
ideas and resources to sustain their livelihoods. Physical capital can be referred to basic
infrastructure (DFID, 2000) in the community that is utilized in sustaining livelihoods. Natural
capital is defined as to resources found in the local environment which sustain livelihoods
(DFID, 2000). Finally, financial capital is the cash flows, savings, and investments that support
livelihoods (DFID, 2000). It is very difficult for individuals to sustain their livelihoods without
the five livelihood capitals.

According to DFID (2000), humans reside in a vulnerability context characterized by trends,

shocks and seasonality that can affect their livelihoods. A trend may be seen as a general
tendency to change. Shocks include conflict, illnesses, floods, storms, droughts, and pests among
other natural challenges. Seasonality entails periodic challenges such as high inflation, high
prices, and poor governance. The shocks, trends, and seasonality can impact negatively on the
livelihoods of people. To sustain their livelihoods in a vulnerability context, the poor adopt a
number of livelihood strategies to be understood as means of earning a living. Mbare is regarded
one of Zimbabwe's busiest suburbs with several informal activities taking place there. The SLA
was found proper for this study as it is a important tool for the planning when the local
authorities are working towards bettering informal businesses so as to improve the people’s
socio-economic lives and reduce vulnerability. The livelihoods of the informal vendors are at
risk to arrests and confiscation of goods. Regardless they choose not to be formalized and
continue to work at risk from the city council officers. The SLA served as the framework for
both intervention and the provision of supportive assistance. In order to ensure that appropriate
actions may be designed to have a beneficial impact, it is also employed as a tool to give the
evidence-base (Allison, 2006). This viewpoint was backed up by Mancini, Van Bruggen, and
Jiggins (2007), who added that the SLA can occasionally be utilized as a tool for evaluation.

8
2.3 LITERATURE REVIEW

According to Leedy and Ormond (2014), a literature review is an unbiased, critical overview of
the available research literature pertinent to the study issue under discussion. Its goal is to
familiarize readers with current theories and research on a specific subject and it might also
support further investigation into unexplored or understudied areas. It is very important to know
how informal vending came into being globally as well as different perceptions to informal
vending. According to International Monitory Fund informal vending is globally and pervasive
phenomenon, 60 percent of the world’s population participate in the formal vending. According
to (ILO,2002) India informal vending account up to 14% of the informal employment. The
Indian street vending had been an integral part of Indian trade and shopping since ancient times.
According to Pakistan Institute of Development (Dines 2002), in Pakistan informal vending is a
way of life as such Pakistan has a bill on the protection of street vendors titled Street Vending
Bill and had been planned.. Informal vending is a common feature in cities across Zimbabwe,
where it provides source of income for many people who cannot find formal employment. The
exact number of street vendors in Zimbabwe is unknown as there is no body there are registered
but however according to a paper by (Ishmael Bhila and Edson Chiwenga) informal street
vendors in Harare represents one third of the population and 100 000 of these are to be in Harare.
Harare being the capital city and the largest urban center in country that where most informal
vending is most practiced and it has experienced an unexpected influx of street vendors in recent
years .The central business district of Harare is clogged with masses of street vendors who
occupy public and private spaces creating congestion and disruption for motorist and
pedestrians .Street vending in Harare has become a source of conflict between the vendors and
the authorities who often conduct raids and confiscate of goods . However, informal vending also
faces many challenges such as lack of legal protection, harassment by authorities, poor working
conditions and low profitability.

9
2.3.1 CHALLENGES FACED BY INFORMAL VENDORS IN ACCESSING
FORMAL VENDING LICENSE IN MBARE MUSIKA

2.3.2 Increase in vending license fee

Due to harsh economic environment, Zimbabwe’s economy has seen a drastic collapse since
2000 leading to the scarcity of formal jobs as companies downsize or close shops. Tsuma and
Jari (2013) notes that to most people street vending had became an bad economic strategy and
source of lively hoods for the unstable. Despite Zimbabwean government and City of Harare
persistent focus on informal sector trying to license them a gap has remained between vending
and the policy surrounding them. According to The Citizen Bulletin (2022) In Hwange Rural
District Council vending licenses increased from US$36 to US$114 jeopardizing informal
sectors and it becomes so difficult for vendors to acquire licenses. According to the licensing
division of the Harare City Health Department, a hawker's license application costs $20. If the
application is accepted, the license itself will cost roughly $ 120 and be good for a year. Since
some informal merchants can afford it, it has become increasingly challenging for them to secure
permits.

only receives $2 to $5 per day. Even if the license is good for a year, some vendors claimed that
it is still challenging to generate that much money because the revenues are used to meet the
family's immediate necessities.

2.3.3 Lack of enough business spaces

Horn (2018) indicates that another obstacle in obtaining vending licenses is that the introduction
of vending license permits regulation that indicates -conditions such as entrepreneur registration
necessity or limitations on the types of goods and and services that can be offered such kind of
pre-conditions can be difficult adhere with. Formal vending license has also proved challenging
for other informal vendors as obtain a license limits them to operate unprofitable areas. The
designed areas that the city council deems safe already congested with other traders meaning
profits are low one of the vendors reported on Daily news. The other challenge faced by
informal vendors in accessing license is that, Harare City Council must approve one operating

10
space and most female vendors are at risk because they work with their children and the council
hold that the areas which profitable sites in Mbare Musika are not child friendly. This then
becomes difficult to them to obtain licenses as they do not want to miss the profits.

2.3.4 Lack of involvement of the vendors policy making

The poor or lack of participation of informal and street vendors in preparation of the licensing
and permit issuing has greatly shown a challenge in informal vendors accessing licenses.
According to (Horn, 2018) Street vendors and informal traders’ participation in making licensing
laws is not encouraged and greatly ignored. This then led to the invention of laws which are top
down and thereby making informal vendors feel like there are not part of the policies.
Policymakers in most cases have seen vendors as trouble makers and causes troubles and
confusion such as pedestrian and traffic jams abstraction also littering the city dirty, therefore
harsh registration, and inappropriate licensing systems have been put into action making vendors
vulnerable and becomes difficult for vendors to access licenses. According to Ackson ,T
(2015)illustrates legal hostility towards informal vendors In Tanzania were street vendors are
defined as not recognized but they will have to pay taxes legally.

2.3.5 Influence from big retail store owners

Pressure and influence from the urban rich the wealthy, such as the owners of large retail stores
and real estate developers, constitute another obstacle for unlicensed vendors who want a
vending license. Street sellers and shop-based traders compete for customers, according to Nani,
G. V. (2020). Formal store owners exert pressure on the government to deny licenses and permits
to vendors in metropolitan areas because they are afraid of competition from these unlicensed
traders.

11
2.4 CHALLENGES EXPERIENCED BY INFORMAL VENDORS

2.4.1 Police brutality and Abuse

Another severe example occurred in Masvingo, when a female vendor's infant was hit by a
municipal truck the mother was fleeing council police. Bitter merchants and locals then attacked
a municipal driver, set fire to a municipal car and a commuter omnibus, and pursued a fire
department crew that was attempting to extinguish the fire. (Langa, 2014). The Masvingo
Residents and Ratepayers Association (MURRA) accused the council of acting "barbarically."
Municipal and state police oppressive and feared activities include physiological harassment.
Moving on the view that suffering of female sellers at the risks of both state and local
authorities. The authorities are generally forcing sex in order to release women or taking bribes
in order to release men. Hence those who cannot or refuse to pay become subjects of abuse
(Ncube, 2014). F. These police activities have a damaging influence on female sellers. Hence,
street vendors lose their inventory, capital, income, and dignity, exacerbating poverty and
psychological difficulties.

Throughout the 21st century, there has been an increase in violence against street vendors as law
enforcement has impacted the fortunes of street sellers by pursuing, arresting, and stealing their
items (Skinner and Balbuena, 2019). Women vendors are more vulnerable to police raids than
men because they react more slowly to police raids, despite the fact that police target both male
and female vendors equally and without discrimination. As a result, female street vendors are
more likely to be detained, harassed, and have their merchandise taken. According to Langa
(2014), women argue that because some of them bring their babies and/or are pregnant when
selling products, they have it harder than men do. Police brutality extends beyond the seizure of
property and the eradication of unlawfully populated regions. Another issue that primarily affects
female merchants is the requirement for sexual favors (Cohen, Bhatt, and Horn, 2000). In
Mutare, police officers ask female street vendors for sexual favors in exchange for their release,
which is against the law and violates their rights (Ncube, 2014). The practice of paying bribes to
public and private interests is so pervasive that words like "cut" have been coined to describe it.
On the streets, however, street merchants are not protected.

12
2.4.2 Confiscation of goods

The vending sector is not only dominated by police as political players and thieves also comes to
cause problems for vendors by raiding them. Street selling is thus a key source of employment
and money for Zimbabwe's urban poor. Conversely, the fortunes of informal vendors who been
impeded by enforcement’s officers and pursue, arrest, and seize their items. In the Kampala,
Uganda State, despite the fact that street trade employs a huge number of city people, its
governmental legitimacy is lacking, and it thus functions in an uncertain and hostile
environment; informal vendors face frequent raids that also comes with many forms of abuse.
(Human Rights, Watch, 2015; Moyo, 2017; Dzirutwe, 2018; US Government, 2018). Street
vendors after they face arbitrary arrests, harassment, and seizure of their items, and the
government continues to force them out of town and city structures despite the lack of alternative
market places that are profitable

2.4.3 Lack of infrastructure

According to Winnie (2003), the majority of street vendors in Africa operate without
authorization, which can result in disputes and violence between them and local authorities.
Housing availability is important for the functioning of informal vendors because it allows them
to sell their wares in a covered area rather than in open spaces where they are exposed to the hot
sun. Accordingly, Marriott (2005) points out that street vendors were exposed to the elements,
including high heat, wind, rain, and sun, insufficient access to clean water and sanitation, filthy
streets, and poor drainage, as well as waste products from other vendors and diseases spread by
rodents. They lacked a stable foundation from which to operate their enterprises. Zimbabwe as
one of the developing countries surely infrastructure it's a gnashing problem in street vending.
Given the physical set-up of the Mbare Musika where there is harsh weather condition as it is
outdoor market on which informal vendors display their goods and sell without minding the
weather conditions therefore Vendors and products they sell are constantly subjected to dust,
cold, sunlight, and rain. The available shields they have in the form of umbrellas are only
appropriate to be used in sunny weather and not for rain days weather, Weather conditions have

13
a number of problems to a number of specific effects on both the women and their commodities
for sale. Most of informal vendors stand to lose their goods especially during excessively hot
days and the rainy season. This will there automatically deem their staff of poor quality and led
to the reduction of selling prices for each ruined item. In times of rains vendors have to run to
nearby cover to avoid damage of their wares. Some vendors have started selling their goods
under cover on pavements outside nearby sshops and (because of this) they are always in
conflict with shop owners.

2.5 COPING STRATEGIES USED BY INFORMAL VENDORS

2.5.1 Bribery

(MacArthur 2008) defines coping strategies to the specific efforts, both behavioral and
psychological , that people employ to reduce , tolerate , master or minimize stressful events . Due
to hardships and challenges faced by informal street vendors so many coping strategies have
been put in action to cope with vending. Her Zimbabwe (2015) states that Informal vendors came
up with unethical measures to secure their space and avoid harassment from police and rowdy
persons such as bribing, paying protection money or even forming gangs. Payment of bribes,
eviction and confiscating of goods are critical issues faced by the city vendors in Indian Cities.
Makuwere ax P moyo (2008) argued that informal vendors with higher business are more likely
to pay higher amount of bribe compared to the small business size.

2.5.2 Mutual savings schemes

In order to cope with their financial crisis informal vendors engaged into mutual savings schemes
, where vendors pool their money and take turns receiving the lump sum to have access to capital
.According to (Rogerson2016)despite the harassment and evictions of informal vending
operation , informal vendors remained adamant and use many survival strategies to survive in
the streets and illegal areas .To surmount cash and financial crisis that hamper operations in

14
street vending , informal vendors in Mbare musika have engaged in rotational savings, they do
partake in rotational savings by parceling out money to each other on rotational bases .It is
through those rotational savings that informal vending form on the bases of familiarity , trust and
social association will help them to raise huge amount of money so as to boost their bulky
orders .Chingono( 2016) in women in informal vending dates that some would even engage
themselves into multi -rotational groups in order to raise enough money . Joining social media
groups on the WhatsApp platform for those who buy and sell similar products has been helpful
to informal vendors as they would meet with potential buyers who would be interested in their
goods.

2.5.3 Political bargaining with local authorities or politicians

Raham(2020) laments that although the informal sector has a huge labor force government seems
to ignore them and any policies guiding them .Musoni (2010) laments on how political parties
have sought to abuse to gain political parties .Magure (2015) Political bargain with local
authorities or politicians has proven to be a great coping strategy to many informal vendors as
they want leverage to gain recognition, protection or concession to their trade.Owen T (2003)
Vendors participate in politics for various reason such as promoting their interest, protecting
their rights and influencing policies that affect businesses. Chinozica (2020) have also
highlighted how In Harare Mbare musika vendors are being issued tables on which the sell their
goods free of charge and for them to gain access to those tables thy are supposed to be
supporting a certain party, so as a result they will end up supporting that party since no policy or
council authorities are allowed to disturb them or ask them for licenses. Informal vendors also
participate in politics to gain access to government contracts and funding opportunities. Political
parties do issues out projects and loans as a way of empowering their supporters and this will
make vendors participate in politics.

15
2.6 CHAPTER SUMMURY

The chapter revealed the theoretical framework prior to the study. It also revealed literature
globally, regionally as well as locally on informal vending.

CHAPTER 3

RESEARCH METHODOLOGY

3.1 INTRODUCTION

This chapter is going to focus on revealing the method used by the researcher in data gathering,
the research design, sampling methods, study area, delimitation, limitation, ethical issues and
data collection technique as well as data analysis plan.

3.2 Research Approach

This study used qualitative research methodology. The primary objective of qualitative research
according to Gibson and Brown (2009), is to comprehend, experience, interpret, and to formulate
he social reality from the perspective of others. The focus of qualitative approach is on
comprehending the numerous facets of the subject under inquiry and providing a deep analysis of
complicated issues. The qualitative research methodology enables the researcher to explore the
subject issue in more depth. (Merriam, 2014). In order to better understand how much the
challenges of not being a formal vendor have affected them, the researcher interviewed the
informal vendors.

16
3.3 Research Design

Research design is a framework or structure of research methods and techniques that a

researcher chooses or uses to conduct a study. The research design that was used in his study is
case study. Case study research is used to generate an in-depth, multi-faced understanding of a
complex issue in its real-life context. The used case study because it allows the researcher to
collect a great deal of information, giving the researcher the chance to collect information on rare
or unusual cases. The researcher is going to learn as much as possible about a group of vendors
in Mbare Musika so as to generalize to many others .and this type of design aim to describe a
population, phenomenon or a situation

3.4 Study setting

The study was carried out at Mbare Musika, the busiest market in Zimbabwe, which is a high-
density neighborhood of Harare. The area is bustling with both formal and ad hoc vendors selling
their wares. Because there are more vendors there and the research was limited to informal
vendors, Mbare musika was the area of choice.

3.5 Target Population

According to Mugenda (2019), the target population is the which the population a researcher
generalize the results of the study. In this research the target population of the study was male
and female informal vendors that are operating in the Mbare Musika between the age of 22 years
and 55 years and are working on a daily basis. They were preferred since it can be assumed that
they have been through the ups and downs of the vending system in Mbare. This study used
informal vendors both male and females and the respondents were picked from different spots
around Mbare Musika including the outside the bus terminus and Rufaro Stadium. The key
informants of the study were workers from the Harare City Council who helped in providing
knowledge on the vending system and practice in Mbare Musika.

17
3.6 Sampling Procedures

This study used non-probability sampling technique to select the secondary participants of this
research. The study then used Purposive sampling technique to select the key informants.
According to (Goulding 2005) key informants are those individuals who trust researchers and
help them to get entry into the field.. Purposive sampling is a selection method that draws
participant samples based on participant availability (Miles & Huberman, 1994). This component
is employed when a researcher suspects that certain respondents may be more informed than
others, and it calls for a specialist to exercise judgment in choosing instances with that objective
in mind. The researcher also used convenience sampling technique to select formal vending
participants. Convenience sampling is where the sample is going to be taken from a group of
individuals is easy to contact or reach and this will allow the researcher to collect data faster and
easier (Creswell 2012). The researchers used convenience sampling because it’s not costly and
not as time consuming and it enabled the researcher to choose participants who were convenient
and easily accessible.

3.7 Sample size

The researcher purposively sampled 12vendors from the Mbare Musika and they acted as
informants to the research study. The researcher by employing purposive sampling in choosing
participants helped to save time than and it also helped to provide expert people who had more
information on the topic under investigation. The vendors assisted the researcher with in-depth
knowledge on their experiences of seeking for SRH services. The 2 key informants of the study

18
were workers from the Harare City Council who are involved in the detainment of vendors in
Harare.

3.8 Data collection method

According to Creswell (2014), data collection is the process of gathering and analyzing
information on relevant variables in a planned, methodical manner so that one may reply to
queries, test hypotheses, and evaluate outcomes. Focus group discussions (FGDs) and semi-
structured interviews were the approaches the researcher utilized to gather qualitative primary
data from a range of respondents. The importance of each strategy to the researcher and the
research project is discussed in the part that follows an analysis of the two approaches.

3.8.1. In depth interviews method

In-depth interview method involves one on one direct engagement with participants face to face.
The researcher used in-depth interview method to interview six informal vendors in Mbare
Musika. According to Showkat and Parveen (2017), in-depth interviews is one of the most
efficient methods of gathering primary data. Using in-depth interviews helps the interviewer to
have a greater opportunity to question, update questions, provide additional information and
circulate back to key questions in the interviews so as to get rich understanding of perception,
attitude and motivation. This is supported by Showkat and Parveen (2017) who states that,
during a research or study, in-depth interviews enable the researcher to understand a concept
(Showkat and Parveen, 2017), this is because the key informants of the research are expected to
provide detailed data on the research problem.

The interviews were done with a fairer opening framework which enables a focused
conversation between with two -way communication. All the interviews were carried out using

19
an interview schedule containing open-ended questions. The function of the researcher in-depth
interview was to offer and guide rather than to decide exactly what should occur during the
encounter. An interview schedule was used to indicate the overall area of interest and to gather
data from participants.

3.8.2. Focus groups Discussions Method

The researcher held two focus groups with a total of six participants. Participants in the in-depth
interviews are not authorized to participate in the focus groups. Focus group discussions (FDGs)
are meetings of people who discuss a certain topic in order to do research. The researcher
facilitates, observes, and records focus group discussions. (Taylor, Bogdan and DeVault 2016).
FGDs were chosen as a supplement to in-depth interviews because they provide participants with
a place to express themselves. The researcher then learns the capacity to consider different points
of view and common experiences from the groups. Individual interviews differ from FDGs in
that they allow for far greater anonymity and open disclosure. (Beck, Trombetta, & Share, 1986).
Focus groups assisted in reducing the bias of one-on-one interviews since participants may try to
impress the interviewer or reply in a way, they believe others would accept. Focus groups
provide for direct, intense interaction with individuals, the collection of rich, in-depth data, the
validation and clarification of actions and beliefs during the conversation, and the participation
of illiterate or blind members. These were only a few of the benefits that the researcher obtained
from carrying out these FDGs.

3.9 Research Instruments

Research instruments refers to any device that may be used to gather or obtain data, measure data
and evaluate data that is relevant to the subject of research (Kumar 2011). This study used semi -
structured interview guide and focus group discussion guide. These research instruments are

20
crucial as they can be used to gather information from a large number of people and they can be
used to collect data that is challenging to observe physically , also data that is difficult to access..

3.9.1 Focus group discussion guide

A focus group discussion guide is a written lists of topics or questions that helps to run a focus
group discussion with a specific demographic of participants (CJ Derek 2018). The guide aim to
find out the perceptions, behaviours, needs and knowledge of the participants related to a certain
topic. Focus group discussion guide helped the researcher to conduct effective and relevant focus
group discussions which helped in the study.

3.9.2 In depth interview guide

An in-depth interview guide offers a clear set of directions for interview and can provide
trustworthy comparable qualitative data. The interviewer develops and utilises an interview
guide, this is a list of open-ended questions and topics that needs to be covered during the
conservation usually in a specific order. (Gillham 2000)

21
3.10 Data analysis

The study used Braun and Clarke (2006) Thematic Analysis during data analysis. To code data
segments with the same topic, the researcher uses codes in the form of numbers, characters,
words, or phrases. It has six steps that are used to find themes from the data to be collected.

Step 1 Identify the main themes

The researcher looked through each respondents carefully to understand the message they were
trying to express. The researcher created broad themes that reflect the meanings from these
responses. The researcher then observes how people express themselves using a variety of
words and linguistic constructions. The developed themes served as the foundation for
examining the unstructured interview material.

Step 2 Assign codes to the main theme

Whether or not the researcher intended to keep track of how frequently a theme came up in an
interview, she had to give the major theme a code. The researcher chose a few responses at
random to an open-ended question or from your observational or discussion notes when
deciding whether to count these themes, and then you should identify the key themes. To easily
identify the primary themes, the researcher wrote down the themes and give each one a code
using numbers or keywords.

Step 3 Classify responses under the main themes.

The next stage was to categories the responses or contents of the notes under the various
themes after going over the transcripts of every interview and note. For this thematic analysis,
the researcher can alternatively utilize a computer tool like Ethnography, (Conor 2016). If your
data is appropriate for such analysis, you will gain from learning one of these applications, he
added.

Step 4 Integrate the themes and responses into the text of your report.

22
Upon identifying responses which falls within different themes, the researcher’s next step will
be to integrate them into her report. How you integrate them into your report is mainly your
decision (Conor 2016). Some people, during discussing the main themes emerged from their
study, use verbatim responses to keep the ‘feel’ of the responses (Conor 2016). adds on that
there are others who count how frequently a theme has occurred, and then provide a sample of
the responses therefore it entirely depended upon the way the researcher wanted to
communicate the findings to the readers.

Step 5 Defining and naming themes

The fifth stage of the Thematic Analysis is to define and name themes. This entails further
reviewing the themes and sub-themes and assigning them titles (Braun & Clarke (2006). The
final themes and sub-themes of the study will be presented in data presentation chapter.

Step 6 Producing the report

Having completed all the steps, final stage of the Thematic Analysis procedure is to produce a
research report in the form of a thesis, journal article or dissertation. According to Braun and
Clarke (2006), producing a research report entail synthesizing the research findings into a
research report. For this study the researcher will be expected to produce a dissertation report.

3.11 ENSURING TRUSTWORTHINESS

The term trustworthiness refers to the degree to which the research findings provide a true
reflection of the phenomenon under study (Denzin & Lincoln, 2012). The researcher utilized the
strategies outlined below for enhancing the genuineness of this study.

23
3.11.1 CREDIBILITY

Credibility is the assessment of the truthfulness, accuracy and importance of findings (Korsten’s
and Moser). In this study the researcher ensured credibility through member checks. Member
checking is presenting findings of the study to the research participants for verification (Stake,
2010) The researcher presented the data to the participants which are the informal vendors at
Mbare Musika and Harare City council workers such that they will approve that it was a true
reflection of what they would have said during the interviews.

3.11.2Transferability

Transferability is used to measure whether, or to what an extent the study’s results are applicable
within other contexts, the circumstances and settings (Devault 2019) The researcher enhanced
trustworthiness of this study by providing adequate details on the site and in-depth interview
with several primary participants and important informants.

3.11.3 Conformability

Conformability is the degree to which findings are impartial and c repeated and enables other
researchers to verify them (Korsten’s and Moser 2018). Confirmability is concerned on the
degree to which the findings could be verified, authenticated or validated by others in the future.
This research data was centered on the data and information provided by participants in the study
rather than researchers own thoughts thereby conformability is ensured.

24
3.11.4 Dependability

Dependability refers to how the stability of the data over time and over the conditions of the
study (Pilot and Beck). Dependability also refers to the extend to which the same study may be
conducted with the same participants and produce the same outcome. This research
dependability was ensured by reporting each process in the study in detail so as to enable
external to repeat the inquiry, and achieve similar results. The researcher was also honest
throughout the data collection and findings.

3.12 Ethical Considerations

The social work profession is a regulated discipline with a set of ethics, values and standards in
which social work practitioners are expected to adhere to. During research in social work, the
researcher is obliged to promote ethics when collecting and gathering data. The researcher must
not violate or compromise the ethics of the profession during the study.

3.12.1 Informed Consent

Therefore, during data collection, the researcher used pseudo names in the form of numeric
numbers for confidentiality purposes and anonymity was guaranteed to the participants. The
researcher first asked for consent from all of the participants before they were interviewed. The
participants were briefed about the research topic and were advised that they were not obliged in
any way to answer any questions they were not comfortable with. The participants were
informed prior to the interview that they are frее to withdraw from the interviews at any time of
the research as indicated by Moyo and Rusinga (2017). Participants were allowed to leave the

25
study at any time, the researcher ensure. Because the research is conducted for academic
purposes and participants' real names were not be used in the study, participants were assured
anonymity.

3.12.2 Anonymity and Privacy

The researcher manages to discuss to the respondents without victimizing them during sessions
and guarantee them that the study would use pseudonyms and anonymize the information.
According to De Vos (1998), one of the conditions on which informed consent rests on is that
participants’ privacy is respected. The researcher not publish enough information that the
participant can be identified. Leedy and Ormrod (2012:102) highlight that any study involving
people should respect respondents right to privacy. Under no circumstances should a research
report study, either oral or written, be delivered in such a way that others become aware of how a
particular respondent answers have responded or behaved. Generally, a researcher must keep the
nature and quality of participants’ performance strictly private.

3.12.3. Confidentiality

Confidentiality is commonly referred to how information about specific subjects is handled. The
researcher is bound by a strict obligation to protect against data that is disclosed to the
respondents (Strydom, 2003). The researcher made sure that confidentiality in all interviews
conducted were private. The researcher was sure that confidentiality is explained to the
respondents prior to the interview. Pseudonyms were used in data collection and in data analysis
to ensure confidentiality. Actions and skills of the researcher were also taken into context. The
was carried out in a morally correct manner with no obligation against subjects and respect of
any answer’s respondents gave. The researcher can use professional stylist to ensure that the
respondents developed trust.

26
3.13 Limitations of the study

Limitation of the study refers to the challenges or constrains that affects the validity or
generalizability of a research on informal vending. This study is only focuses on one place which
is Mbare Musika therefore cannot be generalized to other areas. The study lacked reliable
updated data on informal vending as it is often underreported or excluded from official statistics.
More-so another limitation was limited scope or applicability of findings, as they did not reflect
the diversity and complexity of different informal vending in different settings or times.

3.14 CHAPTER SUMMARY

The chapter focused on revealing the method used by the researcher in data gathering, the
research design, sampling methods, and data collection technique as well as data analysis plan. It
also revealed the ethics that were considered by the researcher

CHAPTER 4

DATA ANALYSIS, PRESENTATION AND DISCUSSION

4.0 INTRODUCTION

In this chapter, the researcher paid attention to presenting data obtained as well discussing the
findings from the research. The research findings have been presented in a narrative form and
ideas obtained were grouped into themes. Data which was obtained from the research was
therefore analysed and presented prior to research objectives which were to explore the
challenges faced by informal vendors in accessing formal vending licenses in Mbare Musika., to
examine the perceived challenges experienced by informal vendors in Mbare Musika and to
identify the coping strategies used by informal vendors in selling in the Mbare Musika.

27
4.1 This study had 12 participants. These were selected around Mbare Musika area. The sample
consisted of 5 females and 7 males and their age ranges from 28 to 53 years. The study used 2
key informants who were drawn from Remembrance city of Harare department of housing and
these key informants are the council police officers. To observe confidentiality, the names of the
participants were kept anonymous and the researcher used pseudo names to identify the
participants. The key informants were also kept anonymous and were named A and B.

4.2 CHALLENGES FACED BY INFORMAL VENDORS IN ACCESSING

FORMAL VENDING LICENSES IN MBARE MUSIKA.

As has been noted above, the researcher made use of different themes which came out from the
findings of the research. Hence the first theme that was raised by the researcher was that of the
challenges faced by informal vendors in accessing formal trading licenses basing on objective
one of the research. In an effort to get more information, the theme was divided into different
sub-themes which are expensive vending licenses fee, influence from big shop owners, lack of
enough business space and poor location for business. It was very crucial then to know whether
the respondents were quite aware of what informal vending was all about for that is the bed rock
of knowing how effective the concept is.

4.2.1 Expensive vending license fee

The participants of the study noted that they are experiencing expensive vending licenses
fee and it has been so difficult for them to access these licenses due to the instability rate of
Rtgs. As a first step towards recognition in the streets, vendors need to constitute themselves
and get themselves licensed. One of the participants argued that because the council has
announced largely unchanged business and small to medium licenses and registration costfor the

28
year 2023 and formal vending licenses remained at USD 120 for initial registration and USD 100
for re-registration and these is for the year and it still expensive for vendors. Dispute the attempts
from city council to reduce the fees it has still proven difficult for some vendors to accuser
licenses as they claim to be too expensive for the and that they can not afford it. This is
evidenced by the following participants:

“The money that is being charged by the city council is too much for us and we can’t afford it,
for us to get that $120 for registration talk more of getting $100 to renew our licenses, we will
have to work for a whole year without eating and our children will not attend school. The rate of
the Rtgs is forever increasing and its never fixed and it becomes a problem” (Chipo)

Another participant of the study had this to say:

“We usually sell $1 to $2 per day and if that day is profitable, it will be $5, so there is no way
we are going to get money for licenses therefore we will continue to do what we are doing”
(Jabu)

Similarly, the key informant of the study had this to say:

“Its very unfortunate that the economy is not stable at the moment but amount that thy are being
charged is very fair considering that it’s for a whole year and they have been efforts from the
city council to reduce those fees, but rather these these vendors they don’t seem to care about it
or to review the policies and make their life easier”. (Key informant A)

From the above participants account they indicated that expensive license fee seldom them from
accessing the licenses. Similarly, Bandara (2020) argues that one of the challenges faced by
informal vendors to access the licenses is due to expensive license fee. This also corroborated
with Pileri (2021) who posited that informal vending is spouting due to difficulties of formal
licenses for their business. This challenge may be viewed using Sustainable Livelihood
Approach as the sustainable livelihood of informal informal vendors is being affected by the
increased vending license fee since most of the informal vendors rely on vending as a source of

29
income and without these vending licenses it is very difficult for them to fend for themselves.
Therefore, it could be argued that due to expensive license fee vendors may end up bribing the
police or end up having fake licenses.

4.2.2 Poor location of business

Another challenge faced by informal vendors in accessing vending licenses is poor location of
business. During the interview most of the participants noted that it very difficult to get licenses
as the council are the one to choose for you the areas, they want you to sell from also they will
even

tell you what to sell and the areas then choose for them are not child friendly so it becomes
difficult to sell from such places. Another participant argued that those places the council want
us to sell from are not profitable and costumers can not easily get there so they end up selling
from where they want and get reluctant. This was further supported by the below participants:

“It is very difficult for us to go and obtain licenses since the City Council will automatically
select a place for you to sell from which we do it want and sometimes they will even tell you on
what to sell, so we will end up shying away from going to get licenses and sell whatever we want
wherever we want too”. (Rhoda)

Another participant had this to say:

“The places that are designated by the City Council for us to sell from are not profitable and
accessible for people, they will tell us to go and sell from the inside of industry and we want to
be where people are so it’s very difficult to be told where to sell from therefore, we end up
selling without licenses “. (Prince)

30
Another participant also supported this saying:

“l am a mother with my kids and due to the hardships l don’t have anyone to remain my child
with as everyone at home is out there trying to make a living, and the places that the council
deem fit are not child friendly and this becomes so difficult for us to get licenses as we do do not
know what to do with our children”. (Rudo)

Similarly key informants said:

“The places that we give them are not child friendly and taking into consideration Mbare being
a busy, noise and overcrowded environment a lot of things happen there and therefore some

policies do not allow children to be present on such places also WHO does not allow us to do so
“. (Key informant B)

The above participants narratives expresses that another challenge faced by informal vendors in
accessing formal vending license is poor location of business .Correspondingly to the case study
conducted in Ghana on (2021) on poor location of business on vendor’s it stated that poor
location for vendors attracts low purchasing power amongst customers and it brought about
unreliability of customers who might have taken goods on credit and it affects the market .This
also consort with Roderick (2021) who commented on the recent changes in Kenya where
vendors were being allocated spaces on back street lanes outside the Central business district
and most of them have no service and difficult for customers to reach . This challenge can also
be viewed using Sustainable Livelihood Approach in such a way that, poor location of business
has a great impact to the sustainable livelihood of informal street vendors as the location of a
business can greatly affect them and may struggle to attract customers and generate revenue.
This can lead to job loses and reduced income thereby affecting people who depend on that
income for livelihoods. That being the case it could be argued that due to poor location of
business informal vendors will end up selling their goods at any available space they deem
necessary without even taking any necessary precautions needed.

31
4.2.3 Negative complains from formal traders.

Another challenge affecting informal vendors that was raised was negative complains from
formal traders. During interviews participants commented on how formal traders influence
negatively to their access of licenses and how they do make life hard for informal vendors.
Another participant also complained about the way they influence the municipal police to raid
and constificate as these formal traders claim that their customers are being taken by informal
vendor. The wars between formal traders and informal vendors have been an ongoing and a
pressing issue as formal traders

claim that they are being disadvantaged by the vendors as they take all the customers yet they
don’t pay rentals nor taxes. this was supported by:

“The formal traders are the ones who make things difficult for us to get licensed also they use
power and money to get us harassed and there are also the ones who are spying on us to the
council police for them to take away our staff and blocks us from selling”. (Takudzwa)

Another study participant had this to say:

“As for me what l know is that l am in the streets because l wants to make a living and the issues
of these shop owners is so troubling as they don’t even want to see us. I do not know why they
make such a fuss towards us because the types of customers we attract are totally different and
those who usually buy from vendors will never go and buy from their shops”. (Chipo)

Similarly, the key informant of the study said:

“We often get complaints from those people who are licensed that it’s not fair for them to pay for
licenses and get nothing from it yet someone who is not licensed is making money from it so it

32
becomes difficult for us to sleep on those complaints therefore we act accordingly “. (Key
informant B)

From the above participants account it can be arguing that negative influence from formal
traders’ vendors and shop owners do sometimes conflict with each other. Informal sectors may
some sell similar products as shop owners but on lower prices and this automatically led to
competition between the two groups. This can be argued that negative influence from formal
trader informal vendors will end up selling their goods from on open spaces exposed to harsh
conditions and sometimes selling close to dump sites thereby endangering their health.

4.3 CHALLENGES FACED BY INFORMAL VENDORS

Informal vendors in Mbare Musika are experiencing quite a number of challenges on a daily
basis while selling their goods. During the in-depth interviews different participants manage to
raise different challenges which includes harassment and abuse, confiscation of goods, negative
influence from formal traders and lack of infrastructure.

4.3.1 Harassment and Abuse

As been noted from the above participants one of the challenges affecting informal vendors in
Mbare Musika is harassment and abuse. Police and street vendors have been on an ongoing war
ever since and they act like cats and mouse due to these informal vendors have been left
vulnerable to arrest, harassment and abuse on a daily basis. For the police it has now became an
everyday thing to hunt down those unlicensed vendors and the vendors also are aware of it and
they plan ahead. One female participant also explained on how female vendors are being
disadvantaged mostly. During the focus groups discussions, the interview managed to note down
so many challenges faced by the informal vendors which included the and continuously

33
harassment by the police. One of the female participants Chipo also supported that sayin it is
difficult to be on the street with children at the same time running from the police. This was
backed by the following participants:

“We already know that we get arrested everyday and we always plan ahead, there police harass
us every day claiming that we don’t listen to them. Sometimes you will just batter on the back
with a button stick without you knowing”. (Goddy)

Another participant of the study had this to say

“As women we are greatly disadvantaged when the police come, we find it difficult to run just
like men and also because we will be having our kids with us, we will not be able to run with
them. Another huge challenge we are facing is that our rights as women are being violated when
we get arrested by the police that they do not care whether it’s a male or female they just arrest
and these women vendors end up being touched on their private parts by male police man “.
(Esnath)

Similarly, the key informant had this to say:

“We as City council workers we do beat r trouble people it’s just that we just do our job which is
to chase away those people who sell their goods where there are not permitted to sell and as for
women there is no women abuse that is happening at our part , women are a being arrested by
female officers and man with men that’s how we work .its their aggressive behavior towards
arrest that makes it looks like harassment only if they would comply with us we would not be
having all these problems”.(key informant A)

One of the challenges informal vendors are facing is harassment and abuse from the authorities.
This corroborates with Dua Arjun and Phunonggy Phan (2022) on the study about Santa Monica
Street vendors rally against harassment by police, claiming that they are increasingly facing
harassment from the police and it has affected them. Harassment and abuse from the police have

34
a great significance on the sustainable livelihoods. Police brutality can lead to physical injuries
which can prevent individuals from working or engaging into activities that are necessary for
their livelihoods. Harassment also can lead to psychological trauma that can affect individuals’
strength and ability to work. However, from the above findings one can argue that due to
continuous harassment and abuse from the police and the municipal police, informal vendors will
end up retaliating thereby causing conflict between the two parties and loss of respect for the
police.

4.3.2 Confiscation of goods

Informal vendors in Mbare Musika are also experiencing a challenge of confiscation of goods. If
there are found guilty of selling without a license, they will be at a risk of their good being taken
away by the police and they are asked to pay fines for them to recover those goods. The
participants complained so bitterly about the way they are being raided by the police and they are
left with nothing to sell and it will be very difficult to raise funds to get a license. They also
complained about the way the council take their goods for their own personal use. This was
supported by following participants:

“Another problem we are facing is that our goods are being taken away by the council and it
has crippled our business. Sometimes they will even take all our staff away and we will be left
with nothing to sell and it becomes so challenging as that’s where the whole family fed from. I
am a father to 4 children and these children will be waiting for me to come back home with food
in the evening but l will not be able to provide them with food since all the staff will become”.
(Richard)

Another participant of the study had this to say:

35
“l sells groceries and whenever the police come by, we are the most targeted as we sell
groceries like rice, cooking oil and sugar. What l know is they do take out staff and share
amongst themselves and the staff will never reach the council offices as they will not take us
along with them “. (Maita)

Likewise, the key informant of the study said:

“When we raid goods from the unlicensed vendors, we usually held them in a storage for a
period time and the duration usually depends on the type of goods and the council policy. If the
person fails to claim their goods by paying fines they will be sold at auction and the sales will
then be used to cover storage cost and other expenses “. (Key informants A)

From the above participants brief they indicated that one of the challenges they are facing from
selling as informal vendors is confiscation of goods by the police and council officers. Similar to
S Bowmick (2010) who argued that municipal police will just confiscate street vendors goods
without issuing them a receipt or list of confiscated items. Confiscation of goods by the police or
municipal police have a impact on the Sustainable livelihood of street vendors as by confiscating
of goods informal street vendors are left vulnerable as they rely on their goods as income to fend
for themselves and to looks after their children . Therefore, it could be argued that due to
confiscation of goods, informal street vendors may end up hiding their good on places which are
not safe to human health such as drains, sewage pipes or dumping site in the fear of losing their
precious goods to police.

36
4.3.3 Lake of infrastructure

Another challenge faced by informal vendors is unavailability of housing infrastructure for

informal vendors operation. The availability of housing infrastructure will help vendors as they

will be able to sell their goods on a shade rather than being exposed on open spaces and can not
be protected from the burning sun and harsh environment. Inform street vendors complained
about the way they spend the whole day sitting under the sun or even during the rainy season
they would get soaked because they do not have a roof over their head. These following
participants supported it:

“We usually spend the whole day sitting here exposed to the sun no matter how hot the sun is we
will have to stay there. During rain season we usually cover our staff with plastics to prevent
them from being drenched since we don’t have stalls to keep our goods and we are forced to
endure hot or freezing conditions “. (Ngoni)

Another participant said:

“Another problem we are having is lack of buildings to store our staff so we end up putting it at
any corner and there is danger of stealing from each other, you will have to be very alert and
your eyes always on the stock because if you blink your eye for a moment, you will risk your staff
to other competitors. At the end of the day, we are forced to carry our staff back home since we
don’t have anywhere to keep them safe “. (Tanaka)

Correspondingly the key informant of the study said:

“Informal street vendors usually build small shacks(zvimisika) to sell from and to put their
goods from. At times we do there and fine them but upon seeing their conditions we end up
taking little money from them as bribe just for them to continue selling. However, whenever the

37
bulldozer is available their shacks will be destroyed without any negotiations with them”. (Key
informant B)

From the above participants account one of the challenges they are facing is lack of
infrastructure. Uniformly to Saseen (2018) argues that some vendors have been residing on
pavement without shelters or even to assist them to operate their informal businesses. This also
collaborates with Gamielden and Niekek (2017) argued that many vendors are vulnerable to ill-
health due to absence of shelter and exposure to weather elements. This challenge can be viewed
using Sustainable livelihood approach in the sense that, due to the fact that street vendors in
Mbare Musika are not licensed they do face a lot of hardships which affect their livelihoods.
Informal street vendors have no access to toilets , storage spaces as well as access to water and
electricity and it affect s their sustainable livelihood as access to clean water and sanitation is a
essential for human health and well being and people are also likely to suffer from diseases. This
can be argued that due to lack of infrastructure informal vendors will end up selling from
established shops such as Ok , TM and other shops verandas just for them to prevent themselves
from harsh conditions. Informal vendors especially those that sell food will end up selling food
from home risking their family safety.

4.4 COPING STRATEGIES USED BY INFORMAL VENDORS

In Mbare Musika informal vendors are experiencing so many challenges in their businesses and
they suffer greatly but nevertheless during the focus group discussion interviews, participants
were able to points out so many ways in which they cope from these challenges. In-line with the
researcher’s themes which are bribery, Rotation credit schemes and political bargaining with
local authorities and politicians these were some of the coping strategies they commented on.

38
4.4.1 Bribery

One of the coping strategies that is used by informal vendors in Mbare Musika . Due to the fear
of harassment and confiscation of goods informal vendors will end up bribing the police. During
the interviews the participants explained on how the bribes the police on a daily basis and how
they save money to give to them about $2 to $5 a day, failure to cooperate with the police by
paying bribes will automatically lead to confiscation of good and selling will be miserable in
Mbare Musika. One of the participants also supported that saying sometimes they bribe them
using groceries if the do not have money and they will accept it. This was supported by the
following participants:

One participant Tinashe alluded that

“Bribery is our daily order and we have come in acceptance with it since. We know that without
bribe we cannot sell for that day; we usually pay these officers $2 to $5 as bribe depending on
the goods that’s we are selling and sometimes if they come and you do not have money at that
time it will be only proper for you to give them from your staff. As for me l sells food staff and if
they came and l haven’t made any sales that day l will then give them 2 liters of cooking oil,
sometimes sugar or whatever that is available. That’s the only way we can survive them for
without any bribes you automatically know that your life will be very miserable in the streets “.
(Tinashe)

Another participant had this to say; “As for me l already knows that each and every day the the
money that l make from my first sales will automatically go the council official and police and l
will put it aside waiting for them to come waiting for them to come and l will just give them. It’s
even better for us to give them the bribe money that they want than to risk your goods being
confiscated “. (Chipo)

Similarly, the key informant of the sturdy said:

39
“Sometimes the street vendors cooperate with us when we tell them in a nice way to vacate the
areas they will be selling from and that’s when they will just give us money for drinks, we do not
call it bribe. We have always heard about street vendors paying bribes to the authorities but we
would like to exclude ourselves from that as what we want and yearn for is change and everyone
to get licenses and uphold the vision of the city council which is Harare to became first class city
by 2023”. (Key informant A)

From the above statements one can see that bribery has been the order of the day in Mbare
Musika and one of the main copying strategy of informal street vendors for them to sell their
goods in peace without fear of harassment and confiscation of goods by the officials .This goes
against the Prevention of Corruption Act ( chapter 9:16) which states that taking bribes is a
punishable offense which can result in imprisonment .This is also similarly to the study carried
out in Ghana which states that women vendors suffers in the hands of authorities in order for
them to sell at the poorly coordinated environment without being harassed they end up paying
bribes and in some cases they are being pushed to offer sexual favors to enforcement officers.
This can be argued that due to the challenges informal vendors are facing they do come up with
coping strategies such as bribery and the female vendors will end up offering sexual favors to the
authorities in exchange with free trading rights.

4.4.2 Involvement of family members

Another coping strategy used in Mbare Musika is involvement of family members to the
business. During the Interview at least three participants talked about involving family members
in the business as a way of maximizing profits and how their children will sell from different

40
places Chipo talked about how she and her children will help each other to sell their goods at
different places has helped them from confiscation of goods by the police as they will divide the
stock and if it happened that the goods are being taken it will only be one person. This was
supported by the following participants:

“In order to support our livelihoods as a family everyone must be out and about selling. My
children know that after school they have to come and collect things to sell so as to earn more
also it helps us to preserve our goods in case the police comes for their raids; we know that we
still have things to sell as there is nowhere, they are going to raid us all “. (Ngoni)

Another participant of the study said:

“They are so many vendors around Mbare Musika and it’s very difficult for us to sell on a daily
basis, due to that me and my wife we usually share staff and sell from different locations that
way we are guaranteed that we will make sales “. (Tapiwa)

Uniformly the key informant also said:

“The reason why they are so many informal vendors in Mbare Musika is that for most of them
everyone from the family is involved, you will find a child as old as nine years selling in the
streets and if it happens you confiscate their goods you will see that the child was selling for
their parents who also happen to be vendors too”. (Key informant B)

Involvement of family members to the business is also another coping strategy used by informal
vendors in Mbare Musika as way for overcoming their challenges. This coping strategy can be
viewed using Sustainable Livelihood Approach. Informal street vendors in Mbare, rely mostly on
family members involvement in their business so as to increase their income. Selling as a family
can have a positive influence on sustainable livelihood of informal street vendors. When
informal street vendors work together it help them to share work load and increase income
thereby reducing vulnerability to economic shocks and it will also help them serve their goods.
Therefor it can be argued that with the involvement of family members in the business have a

41
negative impact especially to the young chi as they will dedicate the time, they are supposed to
use studying to selling therefore affecting their education in a way.

4.4.4 Involvement in politics

One of the coping strategies used in Mbare Musika is involvement in politics. In Mbare Musika
many of the street vendors are into politics as a way of survival. During the interviews
participants argued that they are into politics so as to gain political favor and to get recognition
and avoid harassment from police. They also talked about tables which are owned by the police
and how will automatically get immunity from the police or councils if they have a table which
belongs to Zanu pf as the council is not allow to harass vendors owning those tables. Another
participant also said one of the reasons they join these political parties is to get money from the
politicians as people are being given money for supporting them. This was supported by the
following participants:

“In Mbare Musika we tables that are used by informal vendors are owned by Zanu Pf, so in
order to gain favor we end up joining in politics so as to get recognition also to save yourself
from harassment from the council”. (Tinashe)

Another participant said

“We join these political parties so as to get money that’s is being given to people by these
politicians. We know that whenever there is a political gathering food staffs are being given so
we end up joining these parties”. (John)

Similarly, the informant of the study had this to say:

42
“It is true that in Mbare Musika there is a area where there is so much of informal activities
being done there but we as city council officers we are not allowed to go there since politics is
involved and they collect money from it. It becomes very difficult for us now to maintain order as
we are supposed to since they are political parties ruling there”. (Key informant B)

From the above participants account they indicated that another coping strategy they use to
overcome the challenges of harassment and abuse from the police. Similarly, to Lindell (2009)
argued that vendors and other groups from informal operations benefits from time to time from
the grace shown by friends in politics. This coping strategy can be viewed using sustainable
livelihood approach in the sense that if informal vendors join or support politicians their lives
will be sustainable as they will automatically have someone to advocate for their policies that
promote social justice and environmental protection. Therefore, it can be argued that
involvement in politics as a coping strategy used by informal vendors can be of great help to
them as they benefit from them however some of informal vendors will end up joining different
parties just for them to benefit themselves, one can easily not that informal street vendors end up
finding themselves supporting certain parties which they do not want but because they want to
sustain their livelihoods. However, in as much as involving themselves in politics is of help to
them informal vendor will end up fighting amongst themselves as joining different political
parties brings division among them.

4.4.5 Support from Non-Governmental Organizations

Another coping strategy used by informal vendors in Mbare Musika registering to clubs formed
by City council. During the study the researchers managed to understand that so many non-
governmental organizations are interested in Mbare and they help as much as they can through
city council. One of the NG O that the participants benefit from is GOAL and it help informal
street vendors with money to boost their businesses and to those who have already exist business

43
and to those who wish to start their businesses will be given capital. The participants confirmed
on how the organize themselves into groups of 5 to 10 and will then be given money to start
projects also to boost their business. This was evidenced by the account of the following
participants:

“Another thing that helps improves our livelihood is Goal Zimbabwe. As Mbare residents we
greatly appreciate the Town council for this goal program the brought to us. Every month we
are given money to support and grow our businesses also to buy new stocks and this helps our
livelihoods”. (Panganai)

Another participant said:

“We organize ourselves as vendors into groups of 5 or 10 depending on our mutual

understanding and we are given money to start our business such as peanut butter making or
making detergent. Officials from Goal will also come and inspect our projects and if we used the
money effectively, they will then add more”. (Chiedza)

Similarly, the key informant of the study ad this to say:

“We do try our best to make sure that the livelihood of the street vendors is sustainable and city
council have come up with so many programs through donor fund that try to make sure that they
are no informal vendors in the streets but rather they have projects that can help them sustain

themselves. Dispute all these efforts by the council the street vendors remain adamant and they
continue selling from the streets”. (Key informant B)

From the above participants account non-governmental organizations play a very crucial roles in
Mbare as they aim to reduce poverty and end suffering among less privileged people. With their
introduction of so many programs street vendors are able to cope from the hardship of the
country. Similarly, to Waldman (2021) argued that vendors depend on NGO to help them

44
reestablish their business. This coping strategy can be viewed using Sustainable livelihood
approach as NGÔ helps in the sustainable livelihood of street vendors by providing them with
micro credit to help them boost their business and it them to generate more income thereby
making their livelihood sustainable. Therefore, this can be argued that with the continuous
assistance from NGOs informal vendors will be able to generate more income and do more
projects which will help them raise money for licensing and sustain their livelihoods

4.5 Chapter summary

The chapter above paid attention on presenting data that was obtained from the field as well as to
discuss the findings from the study.

CHAPTER FIVE

SUMMARY OF FINDINGS, CONCLUSION AND RECOMMENDATIONS

45
5.0 INTRODUCTION

On this chapter, there is summary of findings, conclusion as well as recommendation to the

findings which was obtained by the researcher on the topic the disengagement from formalized
vending in Mbare Musika. The research findings will also be summarized based on the findings
of the study research objectives and questions.

5.1 Summary of findings

The topic of the study was the disengagement from formalized vending. Indeed, the research
managed to outline the challenges faced by informal vendors in accessing vending licenses in
Mbare Musika. The first chapter gave a detailed account and narration of the problem and the
research setting, background of the study, statement of the problem and the research objectives.
Its objectives were to explore the challenges faced by informal vendors in accessing formal
vending licenses in Mbare Musika, to examine the perceived challenges experienced by informal
vendors in Mbare Musika and to identify the coping strategies used by informal vendors in
Mbare Musika. This chapter also justified the research and definitions of key terms were also
provided. Chapter two managed to explain the sustainable livelihood approach as the theoretical
framework that was to guide the study. It reviewed the literature answering all the research
questions. Thus, indeed theoretical framework managed to expose how licensing fee affect the
livelihood of informal vendors. This study also used qualitative research approach and it also
used case study research design and its target populations were the male and female informal
vendors in Mbare Musika aged 22 to 55 years. The study utilized non-probability sampling
techniques and convince sampling techniques. The sample size used in this research was 12
vendors who were picked from different spots around Mbare Musika and 2 key informants from
Harare city council.

46
5.1.2 Challenges faced by informal vending in accessing formal vending license

The findings from the study managed to pick out some of the challenges which are faced by
informal vendors in accessing formal vending licenses in Mbare Musika. Due to the economic
hardships in Zimbabwe many informal vendors are left vulnerable to the police and the council
officials due to the expensive licensing fee and from the findings informal vendors are not able to
access licenses due to the ever increase rates and sometimes they won’t be allowed to pay using
Rtg so as a result they end up selling without licenses .Poor location for business was also
another challenge in accessing formal vending license which was noted by the researcher during
the study as informal vendors will be allocated business which are not profitable to them and it
became so difficult for them to go and get licenses . From the findings informal vendors in
Mbare Musika shy away from being formal due to the fact that the places the council chooses for
the vendors to sell from are not favorable for them.

5.1.2. Challenges faced by informal vendors

The study above managed to pick out some of the challenges faced by informal vendors in
Mbare Musika and these includes confiscation of goods, in Mbare Musika informal vendors
reports that one of the biggest challenge thy are have is their goods being taken by the authorities
and they will be left without anything to sell-and they will not be able to raise money to get
licenses. Another

challenge faced by informal vendors is harassment and abuse from the police , the participants
from the study alluded that harassment and abuse is challenge they are facing in selling from
Mbare Musika and women are at risk from being abused during the raids and that’s a major
barrier to their major barrier to their business. The other challenge that was noted during the
study was lack of infrastructure for vendors to sell their goods from and it’s a challenge to them
since they will be exposed to harsh environment which are hot and even in rain season they will

47
be expo with nowhere to hide , they also complained about lack of storage to store their goods
and that they will be forced to carry their stuff back home during the evening and it’s a burden to
them.

5.1.3 Coping strategies used by informal vendors

As a result of the challenges faced by the informal vendors in Mbare Musika, vendors have come
up with strategies to copy from these challenges. The coping strategies which are used by
informal vendors in Mbare Musika are bribery, informal vendors in Mbare Musika resort to
bribing the council officers and the police for them to be able to sell and it has proven to be a
strategy to them since it will save them from abuse and harassment. Another coping strategy
used by informal vendors is involvement in politics, vendors in Mbare Musika resort to politics
as a coping strategy in a bid to gain political favors in form of money or other political benefits.
Informal vendors in Mbare Musika also involve family members in their business as a coping
strategy. By involving their family members, they will reduce chances of losing all their goods to
the police incase of raids. Support from the NGO is also another coping strategy used by
informal vendors as they will join clubs through city council, they get help to start businesses
and also to restock their businesses.

5.2 Conclusions

Conclusively, the study managed to reflect the challenges faced by informal vendors in accessing
formal vending licenses. Informal vendors are truly a subject of abuse especially women as they

are exposed to more violence and abuse than men vendors as they lose their dignity. From the
research it can be argued that most of the informal vendors are not licensed because they are not
able raise the money needed to acquire a formal license even though there are efforts from the
City Council to reduce and review the cost of acquiring a license its still a barrier to the vendors

48
to access the licenses and the economy is not stable. This also show that policies pertaining
informal vendors in Zimbabwe are not paid much attention to and they are being disadvantaged.
This study also revealed the importance of street vending especially in Mbare as it helps them in
generating income thereby sustaining their income.

5.3 Recommendations

Based on the conclusion drawn from the study findings, the researcher recommends that

5.3.1 To the informal vendors

 Street vendors should be encouraged to join street vendors association which will be able
to influence and regulations guiding street vending.

 They should look out for more opportunities for formal employment and reduce the risk
of conflict with the law.

5.3.2 To the government

 Government should ensure the survival of small business in the informal sector by
giving them access to training, finance and business development service.

 Government should try to engage into dialogue with informal street vendors to
understand their concerns, needs and aspirations so as to know what they need and how
best they can be helped.

49
5.3.3 To the City council

 The city council should ensure the survival of the small business in the informal sector by
adjusting the license fees. Also, the Council should always protect the rights of street
vendors from harassment and eviction by law enforcement.

 The city council should provide space and stalls which informal vendors will be able to
access and also convenient to customers.

5.3.4 Areas of further study

The study recommends further research on the disengagement from formalized vending in Mbare
Musika.

5.4 Chapter Summary

The above chapter gave the summary to the findings of the study, conclusion as well as
recommendation.

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50
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Hansen and Vaa (2004) infrastructure for informal vendors

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ILO-WIEGO (2013). Women and men in the informal economy 2013. A statistical picture 2nd
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APPENDIX 1

APPENDIX 1: FOCUS GROUP DISCUSSION GUIDE: PARTICIPANTS

My name is Jacqueline Masiiwa(W191949) studying towards a degree in Social Work at

Women’s University in Africa. I am conducting research on the disengagement from formalized
vending. A case study of Mbare Musika. I am therefore appealing for your assistance to take
part in this study by engaging in an in-depth discussion, answering the following questions. May
you be honest to answer my questions so that my study will get in-depth information and well
informed.

This study is guide by the following ethical consideration

The researcher upholds the ethical principle of confidentiality. It is an important aspect of

research ethics. It is the researcher’s responsibility to ensure that the information they collect
from participants is kept confidential and is not disclosed to unauthorized individuals.
Participants will obtain informed consent letters on which they will sign their names and
signatures. The researcher would also like to obtain permission to use voice recorder as a way of
collecting data.

The participants are not going to receive any harm from this study and the information collected
will also not provide harm to the respondents in the future.

I would like to seek your consent to participate

54
I have read and I understand the provided information and have had the opportunity to ask
questions. I understand that my participation is voluntary and that I am free to withdraw at any
given time without giving a reason and without cost. I understand that I will be given a copy of
this consent form. I voluntarily agree to take part in this study.

Name of Research Participant………………………………….………Date……………..

Signature……………………..

Name of Researcher……………………………………………………. Date………………

Signature……………………

The interview will take 30 minutes depending on what we would have discussed. Before we start
the interview, do u have any question or an area you feel like you need clarity from the things I
have said above? If there is no question we may proceed.

Biographical information of the study

a) Age
b) sex
Section A: What are the challenges faced by informal vendors in Mbare Musika

1. Do you have enough funds to buy enough inventory?

2. Do you enough space and storage for your inventory?

3 What other economic challenges are you facing?

55
 4 Are the police and council officials affecting your business?

Section B : What are the challenges faced by informal vending in accessing vending licenses ?
5 Have you tried applying for formal vending licenses?

6 Are the police, soldiers and council affecting your operation and how?

Section C: What are the coping strategies used by informal vendors in Mbare Musika?

7 How often do you get arrested by the police and how do you deal with it ?

9 Are you a victims of any sickness due to your working circumstances and how do you
cope ?

10 From your point of view what are your coping strategies to the economic challenges?

56
APPENDIX 2: INDEPTH INTERVIEW GUIDE: KEY INFORMANTS
My name is Jacqueline Masiiwa (W191949) studying towards a degree in Social Work at
Women’s University in Africa. I am conducting research on the disengagement from formalized
vending. A case study of Mbare Musika. May you be honest to answer my questions so that my
study will get in-depth information and well informed. This study is guide by the following
ethical consideration.

All participants are to be issued both a written and a verbal consent to be interviewed and also
asked their permission to participate in this research. I am also seeking your permission to record
interviews

Respondent’s identity is going to be well protected and pseudo names are going to be used when
necessary. There is assurance that the information will remain private and confidential and that
the data collected will only be used in line with the study.

The participants are not going to receive any harm from this study and the information collected
will also not provide harm to the respondents in the future.

The interview will take 30 minutes depending on what we would have discussed. The
information that i am going to collect during this interview will remain confidential and only be
used for academic purposes by the researcher.

I would like to seek your consent to participate?

Name of Research Participant………………………………….………Date…………….

Signature…………………….

Name of Researcher……………………………………………………. Date………………

Signature……………………

57
Biographical information of the study

a) Age
b) Sex

1. What, is your view, on informal vending?

2. What could be the reason informal vendors are not licensed?

3. How much is the registration process ofr accessing vending licenses?

4. What policies are in place on informal vending?

5. How do informal vendors cope to the challenges they are facing?

6. What measures are to be put in place on Street vending?

58
APPENDIX 1: FOCUS GROUP DISCUSSION GUIDE: PARTICIPANTS

My name is Jacqueline Masiiwa(W191949) studying towards a degree in Social Work at

Women’s University in Africa. I am conducting research on the disengagement from formalized
vending. A case study of Mbare Musika. I am therefore appealing for your assistance to take
part in this study by engaging in an in-depth discussion, answering the following questions. May
you be honest to answer my questions so that my study will get in-depth information and well
informed.

This study is guide by the following ethical consideration

The researcher upholds the ethical principle of confidentiality. It is an important aspect of

research ethics. It is the researcher’s responsibility to ensure that the information they collect
from participants is kept confidential and is not disclosed to unauthorized individuals.
Participants will obtain informed consent letters on which they will sign their names and
signatures. The researcher would also like to obtain permission to use voice recorder as a way of
collecting data.

The participants are not going to receive any harm from this study and the information collected
will also not provide harm to the respondents in the future.

I would like to seek your consent to participate

59
I have read and I understand the provided information and have had the opportunity to ask
questions. I understand that my participation is voluntary and that I am free to withdraw at any
given time without giving a reason and without cost. I understand that I will be given a copy of
this consent form. I voluntarily agree to take part in this study.

Name of Research Participant………………………………….………Date……………..

Signature……………………..

Name of Researcher……………………………………………………. Date………………

Signature……………………

The interview will take 30 minutes depending on what we would have discussed. Before we start
the interview, do u have any question or an area you feel like you need clarity from the things I
have said above? If there is no question we may proceed.

Biographical information of the study

c) Age
d) sex
Section A: What are the challenges faced by informal vendors in Mbare Musika

3. Do you have enough funds to buy enough inventory?

4. Do you enough space and storage for your inventory?

4 What other economic challenges are you facing?

60
 4 Are the police and council officials affecting your business?

Section B : What are the challenges faced by informal vending in accessing vending licenses ?
8 Have you tried applying for formal vending licenses?

9 Are the police, soldiers and council affecting your operation and how?

Section C: What are the coping strategies used by informal vendors in Mbare Musika?

10 How often do you get arrested by the police and how do you deal with it ?

9 Are you a victims of any sickness due to your working circumstances and how do you
cope ?

10 From your point of view what are your coping strategies to the economic challenges?

61
APPENDIX 2: INDEPTH INTERVIEW GUIDE: KEY INFORMANTS
My name is Jacqueline Masiiwa (W191949) studying towards a degree in Social Work at
Women’s University in Africa. I am conducting research on the disengagement from formalized
vending. A case study of Mbare Musika. May you be honest to answer my questions so that my
study will get in-depth information and well informed. This study is guide by the following
ethical consideration.

All participants are to be issued both a written and a verbal consent to be interviewed and also
asked their permission to participate in this research. I am also seeking your permission to record
interviews

Respondent’s identity is going to be well protected and pseudo names are going to be used when
necessary. There is assurance that the information will remain private and confidential and that
the data collected will only be used in line with the study.

The participants are not going to receive any harm from this study and the information collected
will also not provide harm to the respondents in the future.

The interview will take 30 minutes depending on what we would have discussed. The
information that i am going to collect during this interview will remain confidential and only be
used for academic purposes by the researcher.

I would like to seek your consent to participate?

Name of Research Participant………………………………….………Date…………….

Signature…………………….

Name of Researcher……………………………………………………. Date………………

Signature……………………

62
Biographical information of the study

c) Age
d) Sex

7. What, is your view, on informal vending?

8. What could be the reason informal vendors are not licensed?

9. How much is the registration process ofr accessing vending licenses?

10. What policies are in place on informal vending?

11. How do informal vendors cope to the challenges they are facing?

12. What measures are to be put in place on Street vending?

63
64