Informal transport operator perspectives on entrepreneurship, mobility and gendered vulnerability in rural Zimbabwe

Background: In many rural towns, especially in developing countries, the collapse or absence of formal public transport systems has led to the rise in informal mobility services. Informal transport serves as an innovative solution for mobility at the grassroots level and an entrepreneurial avenue that addresses the transport gap whilst providing income opportunities in economically disadvantaged areas. Objectives: This study explores informal transport operators’ perspectives on how the informal transport mode Mushikashika supports local enterprises and provides everyday mobility in rural towns in Zimbabwe, whilst also examining gendered vulnerability. Method: In-depth qualitative interviews were conducted with 21 informal transport operators to explore their experiences, challenges and perspectives within the transport sector. Results: The findings show how informal transport adapts to evolving mobility needs, revealing its potential for grassroots innovation in underserved areas. Informal transport provides livelihoods for operators and sustains informal economies, such as street vending; however, it also exposes vulnerabilities, particularly for women who face safety risks and harassment in unregulated spaces. Conclusion: This study highlights how informal transport systems can adopt local innovation, inclusive mobility and resilient economic activities in underserved areas. This study advocates recognising Mushikashika within the broader transport system in rural towns. Contribution: This study contributes to debates on informal transport and everyday mobility provision in contexts where formal public transport is absent, using evidence from rural Zimbabwe. This study also contributes to the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), particularly SDG 8 (Decent Work and Economic Growth), SDG 9 (Industry, Innovation and Infrastructure), and SDG 11 (Sustainable Cities and Communities).