Experiences of women street vendors: case of Harare Central Business District, Zimbabwe

Abstract

Women street vendors in Harare CBD face many challenges, but strive to improve their livelihoods through vending initiatives. The study explored the opportunities and challenges experienced by women street vendors in the Harare Central Business District (CBD). The study found that women street vendors in Harare CBD encounter challenges, such as emotional and physical harassment, lack of designated areas to conduct business, confiscation of goods, heavy fines, bribery and knowledge of vending by-laws. All these affect the income they get, thereby impacting sustainable livelihoods. The study also analysed the consequences of the bylaws under which women vendors operate. The findings revealed that the bylaws implemented, resemble colonial bylaws and are not gender responsive, given the socioeconomic challenges faced by women vendors. Recommendations include a collaborative review and development of gender-responsive vendor bylaws and protocols, education and training programs for women vendors, and law enforcement agents to sensitise them on the developed bylaws, the establishment and engagement of women vendors’ associations, and institutionalisation of strong and effective monitoring systems to foster good working relationships between women vendors and municipal law enforcement agents.