Livelihood Strategies of the Aged people in Mubaira Community,Zimbabwe

In today s changing demographic, economic, political and environmental context the livelihood strategies developed by the rapidly growing older population deserve particular attention. Lack of support by the state coupled with economic crises and decreasing family availability has meant that older people are increasingly expected to find their own means of support into old age, develop their own strategies and rely on their own resources. This study uses an explorative approach in its quest to understand the various livelihood strategies of the elderly. In-depth interviews and life histories have been utilized as data collection instruments.Agriculture is the dominant activity the aged people engage in as they try to avert food insecurity. Besides agriculture, aged people diversify their livelihoods through self-employments that add income value to their households. Although the state has been dysfunctional, civil society has stepped in to address the livelihood challenges faced by the aged population.

Autorentext

Addmore Tapfuma Muruviwa is currently doing his PhD in Sociology at the University of Fort Hare,South Africa which focuses on Stakeholder Reciprocity and Corporate Social Responsibility in the Zimbabwean Mining industry.He is also interested in areas such as social gerontology, rural livelihoods and sustainable development.