Microlevel analysis of how itinerant immigrant entrepreneurs underwrite local economic development in an African city

Microlevel analysis of how itinerant immigrant entrepreneurs underwrite local economic development in an African city

Author: 
Abdulai, Ibrahim Abu
Place: 
Oxon
Publisher: 
Taylor and Francis
Date published: 
2024
Record type: 
Responsibility: 
Fuseini, Moses Naiim, jt. author
Yendaw, Elijah, jt. author
Journal Title: 
Development Southern Africa
Source: 
Development Southern Africa, Vol. 41 No. 6, 2024 pp. 1230-1251
ISSN: 
Print: 0376-835X; Online: 1470-3637
Abstract: 

Itinerant merchants are actively involved in various economic activities within and around African cities, albeit on a small scale. However, there remains a gap in understanding their contribution to host cities' local economic development (LED). This research aims to fill this gap by examining how itinerant immigrant retailers support LED in host cities, using Wa in Ghana. Recognising their role is essential for informing location-specific development plans to boost local economies. Employing a qualitative research approach, we interviewed 52 participants, including itinerant immigrants, city residents, and officials from relevant state agencies. Thematic analysis using NVivo version 11 was employed to analyse the responses. Itinerant merchants play a crucial role in local economies by creating employment opportunities, providing income sources for residents, ensuring convenient access to goods and services, and contributing to market diversification. We discuss how these insights could inform LED policies and planning in sub-Saharan Africa.

Language: 
Country focus: 

CITATION: Abdulai, Ibrahim Abu. Microlevel analysis of how itinerant immigrant entrepreneurs underwrite local economic development in an African city . Oxon : Taylor and Francis , 2024. Development Southern Africa, Vol. 41 No. 6, 2024 pp. 1230-1251 - Available at: https://library.au.int/frmicrolevel-analysis-how-itinerant-immigrant-entrepreneurs-underwrite-local-economic-development