Migrant Traders in South Africa

This edited book examines the social realities of migrant traders in the informal economy in South Africa. It draws on original research conducted with migrant traders in order to understand their lived experiences in light of the COVID-19 pandemic. With chapters on the diverse types of informal trading, urban versus rural settings, migrant women, xenophobia, crime, poverty, well-being and policy responses, the book will be a valuable resource for researchers, scholars, policymakers and development practitioners whose work relates to SDG 8 (Decent Work and Economic Growth).

Chapter 1: Introduction (Pranitha Maharaj).- Chapter 2: Migrants in the Informal Sector: What We Know So Far (Shanaaz Dunn and Pranitha Maharaj).- Chapter 3: Hustling to survice: Livelihood strategies of migrants (Sachin Sewpersad and Pranitha Maharaj).- Chapter 4: Escaping poverty in Zimbabwe: Experiences of informal traders in South Africa (Emma S. Chikovore and Pranitha Maharaj).- Chapter 5: Innovation and flexibility: Nigerian women in Durban’s informal economy (Sunday I. Oyebamiji).- Chapter 6: Remittance flow and familial relations in the face of COVID-19 pandemic: Rethinking social ties during the migration period (Thebeth R. Masunda and Pranitha Maharaj).- Chapter 7: No protection, no support: Older migrants operating in South Africa’s informal economy (Ganzamungu Zihindula, Pranitha Maharaj and Shanaaz Dunn).- Chapter 8: Collaboration or competition? The relationship between locals and migrants in the informal economy (Tronic Sithole and Pranitha Maharaj).- Chapter 9: Changes in public attitudes and behaviour towards international migrants in South Africa during the COVID-19 pandemic (Steven L. Gordon).- Chapter 10: The inclusion of international migrants in the informal economy: From policy to practice (Mamokete Modiba and Thobelani N. Mdluli).