Petty Trading in Urban Public Spaces: Experience and Preferences of Petty Traders in Dar es Salaam city, Tanzania

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.”