Abstract:
Petty trading in urban public spaces seems to be active and popular in income
generation for the urban poor. This results to invasion and misuse of public spaces by
urban poor as their market point. This study was set to investigate the experience of
petty traders regarding urban design factors that influence petty trading in public spaces
and also to comprehend their preferences in terms of types, activities and location of
public spaces. Specifically, it examined the factors that influence petty trading in urban
public spaces as experienced by petty traders; the preference of petty traders in terms of
types, activities and location of urban public spaces; and recommends a possible
approach that can facilitate the integration of petty trading activities in urban public
spaces. Using a case study design, the study was conducted in Dar es Salaam city
whereby public spaces along Uhuru Road were examined. The study revealed that petty
traders have a wide understanding of public space and key elements of urban design that
form urban public spaces that are functional and support urban economy by enhancing
trading activities. Findings revealed that petty traders prefer streets, open spaces,
playfield/stadiums and bus stations to be developed or redeveloped in the city centre to
boost their undertakings. The study recommends that petty traders’ needs and
preferences should be considered during the design and development of public spaces
through collaborative planning and design.”
