An assessment of multiple survival strategies employed by rural women : the case of Kwa-Sondela community.

Abstract

Poverty has been an issue in South Africa for quite a long time. For as long as the "poor is with us", this issue will need to be addressed. A whole range of issues such as severe unemployment, illiteracy, drought and other natural disasters fuel poverty, gender inequality, unequal distribution of wealth, etcetera. From the very outset, three stages have emerged in relation to dealing with those affected by poverty. 1. What can we do for the poor? 2. What can we do about the poor? 3. What can we do with the poor? The trend is presently at a stage where something is being done together with the poor communities in order to alleviate their poverty condition. The aim of this study is to look at the present stage in the lives of the poor by way of tackling issues from alongside their own perspective. This is done by examining the survival strategies used by poor rural women in order to provide for their families / households. At the end of the day, the findings of this study will suggest means and ways of helping the poor rural women.