Informal Crossboarder Trade and Poverty reduction in Southern Africa

There is still debate with regard to the contribution of Informal Cross Border Trading (ICBT) activities to development.The policy dialogue in many developing countries continues to be driven by the perception that this trade in economically non-viable and socially undesirable. On the other hand, speculations are abounding that ICBT has the potential of pushing backwards the frontiers of poverty, an assertion supported by the findings of this research. The study investigated the extent of ICBT in the Southern Africa region and its impact on poverty reduction. By designing and implementing a sound research technique, the researcher investigated the extent of ICBT between Zimbabwe and its neighbouring countries, and its impact on poverty reduction, amongst others.The work established that ICBT reduces and alleviates the prevalence, depth and severity of poverty. The book advocates for governments and regional blocks to incorporate informal cross border concerns in regional trade policies in order to broaden the concerted efforts aimed at alleviating economic hardships, reducing poverty and enhancing welfare, as well as empowering women in particular.

Autorentext

Wadzanai Kachere, PhD;Studied Economics, Policy Studies and Development Studies with Universities of Zimbabwe and Fort Hare.Worked as Economist to Deputy Director in ministries of the Government of Zimbabwe. Worked as Researcher with the United Nations Population Fund South Africa, during PhD Studies. Researcher, Facilitator,at Africa University.