Contribution of Air Transport on Improving the Livelihood of the small-scale business A Case of Fish Market in Mwanza city, Tanzania
Purpose: This study examined the contribution of the transport sector pecifically air transport toward improving the livelihoods of small-scale fish business operators. It focused on assessing the influence of airport infrastructure on market access, evaluating the effect of airport accessibility on income levels, and determining the role of airport operations in generating employment opportunities.
Design/Methodology/Approach: A cross-sectional research design was employed. A total of 167 fish processors were selected using purposive and simple random sampling techniques. Data were analyzed using descriptive statistics and logistic regression to explore the relationship between airport infrastructure, accessibility, and livelihood outcomes.
Findings: The results indicated that 65.3% of fish processors had access to cold storage facilities, improving product preservation and quality, while 71.3% reported that cold-chain services facilitated access to new markets. Additionally, 73.1% stated that airport-linked buyers offered higher prices than local markets. Logistic regression findings revealed that fishing experience exceeding five years (p = 0.002; OR = 22.261), airport accessibility (p < 0.001; OR = 0.03), government or NGO support (p = 0.029; OR = 0.25), and increased job opportunities arising from airport operations (p < 0.001; OR = 0.10) significantly influenced improved livelihoods. Gender, age, and education were not significant predictors.
Originality/Value: This study provides empirical evidence on how air transport infrastructure and operations an understudied area in fisheries livelihood research directly enhance market expansion, income opportunities, and employment among small-scale fish processors.
Practical Implications: The study highlights the need to strengthen airport infrastructure, improve accessibility, and enhance financial and technical support systems for small-scale fish processors. These efforts can boost income stability, market competitiveness, and value-chain efficiency within the fisheries sector.
Social Implications: Improved airport operations and accessibility can reduce poverty, promote equitable market participation, and create more employment opportunities, thus contributing to sustainable community development in fishing areas.
Keywords: Airport infrastructure; Market access; Fisheries livelihoods; Air transport; Small-scale fish processors; Logistic regression; Income improvement; Employment opportunities.
