Impact of Floods on Street Vendors in eThekwini Municipality: Challenges and Resilience Strategies
DOI:
https://doi.org/10.51137/wrp.ijarbm.485Keywords:
Floods, Resilience, Informal Economy, Street Vendors, LivelihoodsAbstract
Floods have severe effects on informal economies in urban areas. Street vendors in the eThekwini Municipality were heavily impacted by the February–March 2025 floods. This study examines these effects and the strategies vendors used to survive economically. The objective is to understand the challenges caused by climate shocks and the resilience mechanisms adopted by vendors. A qualitative approach was used. Data were collected through interviews with 20 street vendors and five municipal officials. This method provided insights into lived experiences and institutional responses. Results show that floods disrupted income and access to trading spaces. Vendors faced poverty, gender-related challenges, and limited access to information. Despite these barriers, they displayed strong resilience. Strategies included diversifying products, forming informal support networks, and relocating to safer areas. These actions helped sustain livelihoods but did not eliminate long-term vulnerabilities. The findings highlight the need for inclusive policies. Municipal support and collaborative governance can strengthen adaptive capacity. Integrating vendors’ experiences into urban planning and disaster management is essential. Such measures can promote economic stability and resilience in the informal sector. Recognizing the role of street vendors in urban economies is critical for sustainable development in the Global South.
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Copyright (c) 2026 Bongeka Princess Ndaba, Dr Omololu Fagbadebo, Professor Jamila Kathoon Adam (Author)
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