Background of the study:
Street hawking has emerged as a prevalent economic survival strategy among urban youth in Warri North. Amid high unemployment rates and limited formal job opportunities, street hawking offers a readily accessible means of income generation (Ifeanyi, 2023; Ejumudo, 2024). Youth engaged in street vending play a significant role in the local economy by providing affordable goods and services, fostering entrepreneurship, and stimulating informal trade networks. Recent studies indicate that while street hawking contributes to economic resilience, it is also associated with challenges such as harassment by authorities, competition, and poor working conditions (Obiageli, 2024). The activity reflects broader socio-economic issues including urban poverty and the need for alternative livelihood strategies. This research examines the extent to which street hawking serves as an economic lifeline for urban youth, exploring its benefits and constraints. The study integrates qualitative and quantitative insights to assess how street hawking influences income generation, social empowerment, and economic sustainability, while proposing measures to improve the overall conditions under which urban youth operate.
Statement of the problem:
Although street hawking is a common survival strategy among urban youth in Warri North, it is fraught with challenges such as inconsistent income, exposure to legal and social risks, and inadequate infrastructural support. These issues often limit the long-term viability of hawking as a sustainable economic activity. The lack of formal support and policy intervention exacerbates these challenges, necessitating a comprehensive investigation into the socio-economic impacts of street hawking on youth livelihoods.
Objectives of the study:
1. To assess the economic significance of street hawking for urban youth.
2. To identify the challenges faced by street hawkers in Warri North.
3. To recommend strategies for improving the sustainability and profitability of street hawking.
Research questions:
1. How does street hawking contribute to the income of urban youth?
2. What challenges hinder the effectiveness of street hawking as a livelihood strategy?
3. What policy measures can support the sustainable development of street hawking?
Research Hypotheses:
1. Street hawking significantly contributes to the economic survival of urban youth.
2. Operational and regulatory challenges negatively affect the profitability of street hawking.
3. Targeted policy interventions can enhance the sustainability of street hawking.
Significance of the study:
This study is significant as it sheds light on street hawking as a vital economic activity among urban youth, offering insights that can help shape supportive policies and interventions. The findings aim to improve the livelihoods and working conditions of young street vendors.
Scope and limitations of the study:
The study is limited to assessing street hawking as an economic survival strategy among urban youth in Warri North Local Government Area, Delta State and does not cover other informal economic activities or regions.
Definitions of terms:
• Street hawking: The practice of selling goods and services on the streets, typically by individuals operating informally.
• Economic survival strategy: Methods adopted by individuals to generate income in the absence of formal employment.
• Urban youth: Young people living in urban areas who engage in informal economic activities.
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