Browsing by Author "Mulugeta Markos"

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    Livelihood Strategies Among Female Informal Vendors: A Case of Wereda 04, Akaki Kality Sub-City, Addis Ababa
    (Addis Ababa University, 2025-09-01) Mulugeta Markos; Tebarek Lika
    Rapid urbanization in Ethiopia, particularly in Addis Ababa, is reshaping cities and creating both opportunities and challenges. One of the most affected groups is unemployed and low-income female informal vendors (FIVs), who rely on street vending as a key livelihood strategy. This study explores the experiences of FIVs in Akaki Kality Sub-City, using the Sustainable Livelihood Framework (SLF) and a mixed-methods approach. Data were collected from 160 vendor surveys, eight key informant interviews, and four focus group discussions. Quantitative data were analyzed using SPSS and Excel, while qualitative insights were thematically assessed. Findings reveal that informal vending is a deliberate income strategy, not merely a fallback. While many vendors report improved incomes, others face stagnation, illustrating the sector's instability. A major challenge is lack of legal recognition, with most vendors operating without permits making them vulnerable to harassment, eviction, and fines. Poor infrastructure also forces many to work in unsafe, unregulated spaces. Gender-based violence, including verbal and physical abuse, is common, especially in poorly lit areas. Financial access remains limited: few women obtain formal loans, relying instead on informal savings and networks due to fear of debt, lack of collateral, and distrust of institutions. Business training is rare but highly desired. While some vendors benefit from social networks, others are excluded due to income instability. Institutional trust is low, with many vendors feeling neglected by authorities. The study concludes that informal vending is a resilient yet constrained livelihood. To support FIVs, integrated interventions are needed legal recognition, financial inclusion, safer infrastructure, and protection from violence, capacity building, and improved institutional engagement to foster sustainable and dignified livelihoods in the urban informal economy Keywords: Female Informal Vendors, Livelihood Strategies, Public Space, Urban Informality, Sustainable Livelihood Framework, Addis Ababa.