This policy brief explores the working conditions of transporters, truck drivers in particular in the development mineral value chain. It uses data collected through questionnaires and Focus Group Discussions (FGDs) conducted in nine districts of Dar es Salaam and Coastal regions in September 2020. Truck drivers in the development minerals sub-sector play a key role in establishing a network to facilitate the supply of materials from the sources to consumers. The majority of truck drivers do not possess written employment contracts to give them employment security which makes their jobs vulnerable, at the discretion of owners. Oral agreements between truck owners and drivers make the latter work beyond formal working hours to meet given targets. Truck drivers carry a burden of emerging costs including breakdowns, bribes to unscrupulous authorities and time wasted due to road challenges. Some community members associate truck drivers with adverse consequences of the sub-sector including environmental pollution, soil erosion and noise pollution. Read more…!
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