Socio-Economic Effects of Forceful Evictions of Street Vendors on Livelihood in Tanzania:

Abstract

Street vendors in Tanga City Tanzania have been experienced prolonged challenge of forceful eviction and marginalization from local government authorities. In the light of the problem, the study assessed socio-economic effects of forceful evictions of street vendors operating in Tanga City. The study was based on a mixed method approach through a combination of survey and focus group discussions in data collection. The study was based on the population of 900 street vendors that conduct their businesses in Tangamano Market in Tanga City. A sample of 221 street vendors were involved in the study. The study found that men and women street vendors in Tanga City are characterized by low education, low capital, low-income levels, lack of business registration and prolonged business experience. The study found seven socio economic effects of eviction of street vendors. They included inability to meet basic needs, tensions within households, fear of conducting business, loss of customers, loss of income, confiscation of products, and inability of paying business loans. The study identified five challenges affecting by street vendors in demanding their rights during forceful evictions. The challenges included lack of vibrant street vendors’ association, lack of legal assistance, limited negotiation skills, poor support from political leaders, and lack of laws to protect rights of street vendors. The study identified five interventions for mitigating negative effects of forceful evictions of street vendors. They included formulation of vibrant vendors’ associations, provision of negotiation training to street vendors, formulation of laws for protecting rights of vendors, establishment of vending areas that are aligned with business needs, and provision of political support. The study concludes that eviction of street vendors has adverse socio-economic effects which undermine livelihoods of street vendors. The study recommends formulation of laws for protection of rights of street vendors.