Exploring the Influence of Cultural Practice on Adolescents’ Involvement in Petty Trading: A Case of Songea Municipality.

Ndunguru, Devota Norbeth (2025) Exploring the Influence of Cultural Practice on Adolescents’ Involvement in Petty Trading: A Case of Songea Municipality. Masters thesis, The Open University of Tanzania.

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Abstract

This study explored the cultural factors influencing children’s involvement in petty trading and its implications for educational access in Songea Municipality, Tanzania. Specifically, the study sought to identify the cultural practices surrounding children's participation in petty trading, examine the role of parental cultural beliefs in shaping this participation, and investigate the impact of cultural norms on children's access to education. The research adopted a qualitative approach, utilizing in-depth interviews and focus group discussions with parents, community elders, market vendors, and local leaders. Guided by the Social Norms Theory, the findings revealed that children’s participation in petty trading is widely accepted and encouraged as a culturally meaningful practice. It is viewed not only as an economic necessity but also as a form of moral training and preparation for adult responsibilities. Parental beliefs, often shaped by intergenerational traditions and reinforced by community expectations, significantly influence decisions to involve children in petty trade. Furthermore, cultural norms were found to impact children's educational attendance and performance, with many parents prioritizing trading activities over formal schooling. Girls, in particular, were more likely to be withdrawn from school due to gendered cultural expectations. The study concludes that while petty trading is rooted in cultural values, it poses significant challenges to children’s educational development. The study recommends community-based awareness campaigns, gender-sensitive interventions, economic empowerment programs, and culturally grounded school engagement strategies to reconcile cultural practices with the rights and educational needs of children. Keywords: Parental Beliefs, Petty Trading, Child Participation, Cultural Socialization

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