Livelihood patterns and dynamics among low-income households in the Eastern Cape province. (2017)

• Record Type: Journal Article
• Authors: Simatele, Munacinga; Kapingura, Forget M.
• Is Part Of: International journal of education economics and development. Volume 8:Number 4(2017)
• Page Start: 205
• Page End: 227
• Publication Date: 2017
• Subjects: livelihoods -- sustainability -- Eastern Cape -- poverty; Education -- Economic aspects -- Periodicals; 338.473705
• Languages: English
• ISSNs: 1759-5673

Abstract

This paper discusses the nature of livelihood strategies within the Eastern Cape province of South Africa. The analysis is based on a survey conducted among 2000 households throughout the province. Content and statistical analysis is used to summarise the results. The role played by government structures in the process of livelihood implementation is discussed. Links are drawn between local community resources and the diverse livelihood strategies that households engage in. The results show that there is a very weak link between resources in communities and associated livelihood strategies. Moreover, institutional structures tend to inhibit successful exploitation of such resources in some cases. Regulatory compliance and attendant costs also constrain participation in sustainable resource use.