Sabrina Lee

July 2004

This publication discusses the informal economy, in South Africa and Uganda, and how it represents a growing economic sector and a source of employment for those who are marginalised and excluded from formal work opportunities. It states how street trading in both countries forms one of the largest sectors of informal work. It maintains that women make up the majority of street traders, and are usually concentrated in the so-called ‘survivalist’ sector, occupying the most poorly-paid and insecure forms of employment. It also discusses how the social and economic vulnerability of women is further compounded by oppressive legislation and policy surrounding their economic activities.

Contents covered include:

• The informal economy: A gendered analysis of informal work in Uganda and South Africa
• The context for the gendered impact of HIV/AIDS on the informal economies of South Africa and Uganda
• Working the streets: Women in street trading environments in South Africa and Uganda
• The vulnerability of women street traders to HIV/AIDS
• Local government and HIV/AIDS: Integrating informal economy and HIV/AIDS programmes and policies
• The role of informal workers, unions and NGOs in HIV/AIDS prevention and impact
• Decentralised systems of social protection: Mitigating economic shocks and reducing vulnerability
• Recommendations

"The report gives recommendations based on issues which deserve consideration in evaluation and planning of interventions by local government authorities and civil society organisations. A crucial issue for consideration is why and how local government can create an enabling environment for the successful integration of gender sensitive HIV/AIDS programmes and local economic development policies. Policies which recognise women street traders as economic actors, are supportive of their work and acknowledge the specific needs of, and constraints placed upon, women are required."

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English