Multidimensional Poverty in Informal Settlements in Windhoek, Namibia, and Orange Farm, South Africa

Abstract

The goal of the study was to explore and compare the multidimensional nature of poverty in informal settlements in Windhoek, Namibia, and Orange Farm, South Africa. The study employed a mixed methods research design that used a collective case study and a cross-sectional survey for the qualitative and quantitative study phases. Findings indicate that poverty in informal settlements is a multilayered phenomenon that has interrelated social, economic, and environmental dimensions. What differs across countries is the level of government commitment through constitutional mandates and policies to mitigate the impact of poverty by rendering basic services and implementing housing schemes and anti-poverty programs such as social grants. Political will is key to finding people-centered solutions. Social and environmental justice campaigns that advocate and lobby governments for accountability in implementing national development plans and social welfare policy commitments are needed.

Socio-Economic Inequalities in Namibia: A Qualitative Social Work Study

“…Neoliberal capitalism therefore reduces finances for social welfare services and the ways in which services are delivered (Strydom et al 2017). Cutbacks in public expenditure on health, welfare, education and housing affects vulnerable people (Sewpaul 2016) and shows the interrelatedness of poverty and inequalities (Chiwara and Lombard 2020).…”

Structural Inequalities in Namibia and South Africa: A Critical Social Work Perspective

“…It also aligns with libertarian notions of justice that valorise individual rights and liberties (DuBois and Miley 2019). It is furthermore associated with the normalisation of greed, overconsumption and the pursuit of financial profits at the expense of the wellbeing of people and the planet (Chiwara 2019). The widely publicised Fishrot and State Capture scandals in Namibia and South Africa, respectively, which involved massive bribery, tax evasion and the plundering of state resources by high-ranking ruling party officials and those connected to them are testimony to the pervasive forms of corruption associated with greed driven development (Coetzee 2021;Hartwig 2023).…”

“…The rationale for this article is linked to the historic call for social work to intensify efforts in promoting social and economic equality against a backdrop of widening structural inequalities (IFSW, IASSW and ICSW 2012). The article is informed by my doctoral study (Chiwara 2019). My position is that of a Zimbabwean citizen whose longterm studying and dual residence in Namibia and South Africa have exposed me to the social welfare policy, social work education, and practice contexts in the countries under study.…”