Implications of e-Ticketing Systems on the Financial Status of Bus Terminal Touts in Tanzania: A Systematic Literature Review

Abstract: The public transport in Tanzania has undergone a quick adoption of electronic systems which has completely changed the operational landscape of intercity and intracity travel. This study draws results from a systematic literature review for the inferences of e-ticketing regarding financial positions of bus terminal touts’ informal workers who have historically made income through ticket hawking, passenger solicitation, and commission-based activities with bus companies. The review engaged on peer-reviewed articles, government policy documents, grey literature, and empirical reports from Tanzania and similar Sub-Saharan African countries, the review examined the economic displacement effects of digital ticketing, the coping strategies adopted by affected touts, and the broader socioeconomic consequences of transport digitization. Findings indicated that e-ticketing systems greatly decrease informal income streams for touts by eliminating commission-based sales channels, restricting physical ticket access points, and increasing transparency in fare collection. The study also identifies a digital divide as a key vulnerability factor among affected touts. It is recommended that, policies should include financial inclusion programs, digital literacy training, and transitional social protection frameworks to cushion the financial shocks borne by this group of workers.