Informal traders in an uncertain economy in Mutare flea market, Zimbabwe

These informal business activities include informal trading which is becoming popular as a result of the push for entrepreneurial hubs, discounted products and gathering space for various activities. However, in Zimbabwe, informal traders are hit by cash shortages due to economic challenges facing the country.This study aims to analyse their cash flow management, drawing with reference to Mutare Flea Market. The study synthesizes the findings from the secondary data reviewed from prevailing bodies/sources of literature and the primary data gathered using a quantitative approach where data were collected using 82 survey questionnaires. The informal traders are encountered by challenges such as site of operation and rights to trading space complexities, transportation of products to trading places and homes, negative trade policy processes, lack of capital or survival funding and seasonal changes. The cash flow management was analysed, drawing inferences from the Mutare flea market in Zimbabwe. From the sample which was taken, the researcher finds out that the majority of the informal traders in Mutare Flea markets evade payment of taxes, do not bank their money and use mobile money services.