Legal Flexibilities in the Informal Sector of Urban Tanzania: A Mixed-Methods Inquiry

The informal sector in urban Tanzania plays a significant role in economic activity despite facing legal constraints and challenges. A mixed-methods study involving both qualitative in-depth interviews (n=30) and quantitative survey data (n=500), conducted among urban women entrepreneurs in Tanzania. Data was analysed using thematic analysis for qualitative insights and descriptive statistics for quantifiable results. Women entrepreneurs reported a high degree of legal flexibility, with 85% indicating that they could operate without formal permits or documentation in their respective sectors. The mixed-methods approach revealed nuanced understandings of legal flexibilities within the informal sector and highlighted the importance of policy interventions to support women entrepreneurs effectively. Policy makers should consider developing tailored policies that acknowledge the realities of the informal sector while ensuring compliance with broader legal frameworks.