Abstract
This investigation examined the significant impact of the COVID-19 pandemic on the livelihood strategies of those engaged in the informal sector in Duncan Village, East London. With the global spread of the virus, the informal sector, pivotal in numerous economies, confronted unparalleled obstacles. Utilising qualitative research methodologies encompassing interviews and participant observations, this analysis illustrated the dynamic changes undertaken by individuals in the informal sector within Duncan Village in response to the numerous challenges caused by the pandemic. The results highlighted the resilience and adaptability of those working in the informal sector as they manoeuvred through economic recessions, constraints on movement, and escalated health risks. Ranging from street vendors to service providers, this study revealed the inventive methods employed by these individuals in diversifying their sources of income, collaborating within their communities, and utilising technology to maintain their economic pursuits. Furthermore, the study clarified the significance of social networks and community support systems in alleviating the detrimental impacts of the pandemic on the livelihoods of those in the informal sector. By exploring the individual experiences in Duncan Village, this research not only enhances the understanding of the localised effects of the pandemic but also offers perspectives on the broader discourse surrounding informal economies, resilience, and sustainable development in the context of global emergencies. The findings hold considerable relevance for policymakers, practitioners, and scholars in devising interventions that bolster the adaptive capabilities of those working in the informal sector following disruptive occurrences.
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