Childcare Challenges Arising from Reliance on Social Networks as a Parental Coping Mechanism Among Women Street Vendors in Nyamagana, Tanzania

Introduction: Street vending is a vital part of the informal economy in Tanzania, with many women balancing income generation and childcare responsibilities. However, women street vendors in urban areas of Tanzania, including Nyamagana District, often rely on social networks such as siblings, neighbors, and daycare centers to supervise and support their young children while they are busy with vending activities. Nevertheless, the specific challenges associated with this reliance remain underexplored, particularly regarding children’s moral guidance, social development, and emotional wellbeing. Understanding these difficulties is essential for informing policies and community interventions to support working mothers. Methodology: Guided by a constructivist paradigm, the study employed a qualitative cross-sectional design. Participants included women street vendors and local government officials. Data were collected through semi-structured interviews and focus group discussions, enabling participants to describe their experiences in detail. Thematic analysis was conducted using NVivo software to identify patterns and key challenges in reliance on social networks for childcare. Findings: The study revealed that dependence on social networks exposes children to inconsistent supervision, negative peer influences, limited moral guidance, and weak parent-child bonds. Older siblings sometimes assume caregiving responsibilities at the expense of their own development, while neighbors and daycare centers provide partial or inadequate guidance. Mothers reported stress, anxiety, and concern for their children’s wellbeing, reflecting the strain of balancing vending and parenting. These findings highlight the practical and emotional challenges of informal childcare arrangements. Conclusion: Reliance on social networks for childcare creates significant challenges for women street vendors in Mkuyuni, affecting children’s social, moral, and emotional development while increasing maternal stress. The study underscores the need for community support, targeted policies, and interventions that enhance safe, consistent, and structured childcare options for women in the informal economy.