Youth Perception on Motorcycle Taxi Business Investment and its Effect on their Economic Wellbeing: Experience from Moshi Municipality

Abstract

The study assessed youth perception on motorcycle taxi business investment and its effect on their economic wellbeing. A cross-sectional research design was used whereby data were collected through a structured questionnaire, key informant interview and documentary review. Data were analyzed using quantitative approach with the use of descriptive statistics and qualitative approach using narratives. Youth perception on motorcycle taxi business investment is attributed through self-employment, secondary source of disposable income, lack of formal employment opportunity and the need for entrepreneurship skills development. The study found that, youth motorcycle taxi business investors benefit in the business which enables them to develop economically through improved wellbeing. The key challenges facing the business included poor road infrastructure, susceptibility of some riders being robbers by community members and lack of training on road safety measures. Study concludes that, youth motorcycle taxi business impacts on operators, owners and users’ well-being or quality of life by providing affordable, quick, accessibility to remote places and flexible transport. It is therefore recommended that local authorities and government to improve transport infrastructures like putting street security lights, setting motorcycle parking stations and improving roads, regular training on road safety measures to operators, training on road transport safety and training on entrepreneurship skills to motorcycle taxi operators so as to significantly have positive effect on their economic wellbeing.