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Technology for street traders in Tanzania: A design science research approach

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  • Nasibu Mramba
  • Mikko Apiola
  • Emmanuel Awuni Kolog
  • Erkki Sutinen

Abstract

The informal sector employs the major part of workers in developing countries. Street trading is a common form of informal work. Despite its huge economic value in developing countries, little research is being done to improve street traders’ empowerment and entrepreneurship. Also, development informatics is over-focused on social development and under-focused on economic development. This study takes a design science research (DSR) approach in order to identify barriers for street traders in Dar es Salaam, Tanzania, that can be addressed with technology. As a follow-up to our previous qualitative study, a questionnaire was administered to a sample of (N = 285) street traders. The data was analysed using mixed methods. The results show that street traders operate in a challenging environment, and make most of their decisions based on tacit knowledge. Traders are restrained by unreliable business information, weak business strategies, and access to capital. A variety of technology innovations, such as customer-client matchmaking, and record keeping are proposed to directly address the daily challenges of street traders. Future technology projects form exciting possibilities for technology experts, students, and scholars globally. The expected future implications of this project are increased STI capacities, economic growth, and human development.

Suggested Citation

  • Nasibu Mramba & Mikko Apiola & Emmanuel Awuni Kolog & Erkki Sutinen, 2016. "Technology for street traders in Tanzania: A design science research approach," African Journal of Science, Technology, Innovation and Development, Taylor & Francis Journals, vol. 8(1), pages 121-133, March.
    • Handle: RePEc:taf:rajsxx:v:8:y:2016:i:1:p:121-133
    DOI: 10.1080/20421338.2016.1147208
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    Cited by:

    1. Felix Joseph Chille, 2020. "The Influence of Street Vending Business on Household Characteristics in Dar es Salaam and Coast Region in Tanzania," International Journal of Research and Innovation in Social Science, International Journal of Research and Innovation in Social Science (IJRISS), vol. 4(10), pages 481-486, October.
    2. Atupakisye KALINGA, 2023. "Adaptation Strategies Among Petty Traders In Securing Livelihoods During Covid-19 High Tension Period In Ubungo Municipality, Tanzania," Business Excellence and Management, Faculty of Management, Academy of Economic Studies, Bucharest, Romania, vol. 13(1), pages 77-95, March.
    3. Sharma, Gautam & Dahlstrand, Åsa Lindholm, 2023. "Innovations, informality, and the global south: A thematic analysis of past research and future directions," Technology in Society, Elsevier, vol. 75(C).

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