Background of the study
Street vending is a ubiquitous economic activity in urban centers, providing a source of livelihood for many who are excluded from formal employment. In Port Harcourt Local Government Area, Rivers State, street vending has become an essential survival strategy, enabling individuals to generate income despite economic uncertainties. The practice of street vending is characterized by its flexibility and minimal entry barriers, yet it is fraught with challenges such as regulatory constraints, competition, and infrastructural deficits (Ibekwe, 2023). Research indicates that street vending contributes significantly to the urban informal economy, playing a vital role in poverty alleviation and local economic development (Okey, 2024). In Port Harcourt, the dynamics of street vending are influenced by factors such as urban migration, policy environments, and market demand. This study examines how street vending supports urban economic survival by analyzing the socio-economic profiles of vendors, the challenges they face, and the coping strategies they employ. By integrating quantitative data with qualitative narratives, the research provides a comprehensive understanding of the economic and social dimensions of street vending. The insights gained are intended to inform urban policy and support the creation of more inclusive economic strategies that recognize the contributions of the informal sector (Eze, 2025).
Statement of the problem
Street vending in Port Harcourt faces significant challenges that threaten the economic survival of urban dwellers who depend on it. Regulatory restrictions, inadequate infrastructure, and stiff competition hinder vendors’ ability to operate efficiently and sustainably (Okafor, 2023). Moreover, the lack of formal support systems means that street vendors often operate in precarious conditions, with little recourse in times of economic downturn. This vulnerability undermines their potential contribution to urban economic stability and growth. This study seeks to address these issues by identifying the critical challenges faced by street vendors and proposing policy measures to support their livelihoods, thereby enhancing urban economic resilience (Udo, 2024).
Objectives of the study:
To assess the contribution of street vending to urban economic survival.
To identify the challenges faced by street vendors in Port Harcourt.
To propose policy interventions that support sustainable street vending.
Research questions:
How does street vending contribute to urban economic survival in Port Harcourt?
What are the primary challenges faced by street vendors?
What policies can enhance the sustainability of street vending?
Research Hypotheses:
Street vending significantly contributes to urban economic survival.
Regulatory and infrastructural challenges negatively impact vendors.
Targeted policy interventions can improve the conditions of street vending.
Significance of the study
This study is significant as it provides critical insights into the role of street vending in supporting urban livelihoods in Port Harcourt. The findings will inform local policymakers and urban planners in designing supportive measures that enhance the sustainability of street vending. By addressing the challenges faced by vendors, the research contributes to broader strategies for inclusive urban economic development (Ekong, 2023).
Scope and limitations of the study:
The study is limited to assessing street vending and its impact on urban economic survival within Port Harcourt Local Government Area, Rivers State, and does not extend to other urban activities.
Definitions of terms:
Street vending: The informal sale of goods and services in public spaces.
Urban economic survival: The ability of urban residents to sustain their livelihoods.
Informal economy: Economic activities that are not regulated by formal institutions.
Background Of The Study
Higher institution is the institution which one attends to after his secondary...
ABSTRACT
Voting is a very important process in the Nigerian political system. It is one of the means and most effe...
Background of the Study
In oil-dependent communities in Nigeria, the management of royalties and tax revenues has often bee...
BACKGROUND OF THE STUDY
Job satisfaction is an attitude that arises from the balance and summation of n...
ABSTRACT
The study was designed to find out, the relationship between effective educational planning and staff performan...
Background of the Study
Transportation infrastructure is a critical determinant of rural economic develop...
Background of the Study
Antenatal care (ANC) is a crucial component of maternal health services that en...
Background of the Study:
Alcohol consumption is a major lifestyle factor influencing cardiovascular health, with effects th...
Background of the Study
Technological advancements have revolutionized risk management practices across various sectors, pa...
Background of the Study
Fire emergencies pose significant risks in industrial and urban settings, making effective trainin...