Abstract

Daily wage labourers often face a variety of challenges in their occupational environments that significantly impact their working conditions, health, and overall well-being. Addressing these challenges requires systemic changes. Daily wage labourers, making up 37.4% of Tanzania’s workforce, are vital to sectors such as construction and agriculture. However, they face numerous challenges, including low wages, income instability, and the lack of formal contracts. This study examines these challenges in Dodoma City, focusing on income stability, workplace treatment, and safety conditions. A mixed-methods approach was employed, combining both qualitative and quantitative techniques. Stratified sampling selected 151 daily wage workers and 12 key informants from various industries. Data were collected using structured questionnaires and semi-structured interviews, which were analysed through SPSS for statistical trends and thematic analysis for qualitative insights. The study found that the majority of daily wage labourers in Dodoma City are male (64%) and have diverse educational backgrounds. They primarily work in construction and industrial sectors, where income instability is a significant issue. Notably, 50.7% of workers experience occasional wage delays, and 31.8% report consistent delays (p < 0.05), which affects their perception of wage sufficiency. Workplace treatment varied: 49.0% of workers considered their workload fair, 28.0% felt respected, and 22.5% reported ethnic or tribal discrimination (p < 0.05). Safety concerns were prevalent, especially in construction and industrial sectors, where inadequate protective measures and hazardous conditions were common. These findings underscore the urgent need for improved safety protocols (p < 0.01). The study highlights that addressing income instability, unfair workplace practices, and safety hazards through financial stability measures, fair labour practices, educational initiatives, and enhanced safety standards is crucial for improving working conditions and fostering economic resilience among daily wage labourers in Dodoma City.