Market shocks, climate vulnerability, and income loss in informal indigenous food systems: evidence from street vendors in Durban, South Africa
Xolile Mkhize, Thobani Cele
Abstract
Indigenous food crops are vital for nutrition security, climate resilience, and inclusive livelihoods, aligning with Sustainable Development Goals 2 (Zero Hunger), 8 (Decent Work and Economic Growth), and 13 (Climate Action). Yet, the street vendors who distribute these crops remain highly vulnerable to overlapping socio-environmental disruptions. This study investigates how compound shocks (the 2022 Durban floods, the COVID-19 pandemic, and the 2021 civil unrest) affect the economic sustainability of indigenous food crop vendors in South Africa. A cross-sectional survey of 34 vendors at Durban’s Warwick Early Morning Market was conducted, with data analyzed using descriptive statistics, and robust regression modeling. Results show that 88% of vendors experienced income loss due to flooding, 71% due to COVID-19, and 68% due to unrest. The regression model identified lack of cold storage ( β = 1.53, p < 0.01), crop perishability ( β = 1.10, p < 0.05), and exposure to these shocks as statistically significant predictors of income reduction. These findings highlight the urgent need for inclusive urban food governance, investment in post-harvest infrastructure, and support for informal vendors as key actors in achieving SDG-aligned, climate-resilient food systems.