Case studies on street vending in six African countries (Kenya, Uganda, Zimbabwe, Ghana, Cote d'Ivoire and South Africa) assess the business/environment constraints for street vendors. Those working in the informal economy work in unregulated and unprotected environments that are not conducive to business growth. Street vending is primarily viewed as an economic activity for those with a low level of education and employs many women, for whom it is considered an extension of their reproductive and domestic role. The South African case provides a lesson on what constitutional and policy response can do to support informal economic activities and give every stakeholder a chance to make contribution to economic development.