Resettlement and poverty : the plight of vulnerable groups affected by the Lesotho highlands water project : case study of phase 1B communities

Involuntary resettlement due to planned economic interventions for the purpose of economic growth, is a political and socio-economic phenomenon. It is associated with development and poverty, as it affects livelihoods of those involved. This process impacts differently on different individuals, depending on their capability to regain earning and productive bases, to access support systems, as well as to access opportunities and widen choices that sustain their lives. The study investigates the assumption that their vulnerability, ineligibility for compensation provisions and lack of specific programmes to address their needs affect their capability to adjust in new areas. In view of this, the purpose of the study is to explore the impact of resettlement on vulnerable groups (the landless, unemployable aged and disabled). The overall objective is to highlight their situation, because of a concern for their long-term welfare, possible marginalisation from mainstream development and risk of poverty. The coverage involved vulnerable groups in stage one resettlement. A stratified sampling technique was employed to select 31 respondents who represent these groups. In the study, primary and secondary data were collected by making use of In-depth interviews, focus-group discussions and content analysis of related literature. A semi-structured schedule with open-ended questions was employed to gather information that was qualitatively manipulated. The findings suggest that the resettlement process has resulted in the disruption of support systems, limited opportunities in host areas, and inadequate restorative measures to sustain livelihoods of vulnerable groups. As a result, these groups are disempowered, marginalised and excluded from mainstream social and economic development, which compounds their risk of impoverishment.

Grantor dc:publisher.institution

Department of Social Development

Year dc:date.issued

2002

Author dc:creator

• Parrow, Thato Robina

Advisors dc:contributor.advisor

• Marsh, James
• Tshishonga, Ndwakwulu
• Taylor, Viviene
• Conradie, Ina

Language dc:language.iso

eng

Handle dc:identifier.uri

http://hdl.handle.net/11427/14943

OAI identifier oai:identifier

oai:open.uct.ac.za:11427/14943