Saving Lives or Saving Livelihoods

Friday, September 22, 2023

Mr Lungisani Shange graduated with a Master's in Development Studies. His research entitled: Saving Lives or Saving Livelihoods? Exploring the Impact of South Africa’s Response to the Coronavirus Pandemic on the Informal Sector in the Durban Central Business District dealt with the real and sensitive issue of how the livelihoods of informal traders were affected by COVID-19 restrictions.

Type your Mr Lungisani Shange graduated with a Master's in Development Studies.
His research entitled: Saving Lives or Saving Livelihoods? Exploring the Impact of South Africa’s Response to the Coronavirus Pandemic on the Informal Sector in the Durban Central Business District dealt with the real and sensitive issue of how the livelihoods of informal traders were affected by COVID-19 restrictions.
Said Shange, ‘My research poses the question of whether government considered the livelihood impacts of their COVID-19 related restrictions on informal traders while attempting to save their lives from the pandemic.’
Shange encountered several challenges while conducting his research, such as hostility from traders when asked questions around their livelihoods, the unconducive environmental setting in which informal traders work, and the emotional impact of the lockdown on the traders.
‘Participants became very emotional as this was an experience they wanted to forget. It was hard for them to answer some of my questions without shedding a tear,’ he said.
His research concluded that the lockdown restrictions destroyed the livelihoods of informal traders in the Durban CBD and severely impacted their ability to provide for their families while exacerbating their poverty plight. In addition, the study found that informal traders lack proper documentation and permits/licenses which serve as a barrier to accessing government funding. The evidence also suggested there is a lack of financial education around money management and savings as informal traders had no savings at all.
Despite government having designed several social relief grants to assist informal traders and other small business owners, a significant number did not access them.
The study recommends that efforts must be made from all stakeholders to ensure that informal traders are registered and have all the necessary paperwork to operate in the city and get benefits in times of crisis. It also recommends a holistic consideration of all sectors when government formulates lockdown restrictions in the future, especially for the informal sector considering its vulnerability. ‘There is a need for disaster readiness from government and other stakeholders to safeguard the informal economy in times of crisis similar to COVID-19.’
Shange’s passion of improving people’s lives is what led him to pursue Developmental Studies. ‘I want to be able to constructively help people and communities in need. Furthermore, this degree will open a range of career opportunities, including working for NGOs, international organisations, and government agencies.
‘Achieving my masters is a satisfying feeling, considering the challenges I have endured. At some point, I was financially excluded for two consecutive years, but I never lost hope in my dream and was able to return and complete my degree.’
He is grateful for financial and emotional support from his family and friends. ‘I was unemployed, and they came to my aid. Their support was immense, and I want to express my deepest gratitude for their love and encouragement.’
Shange was supervised and mentored by Professor Shauna Mottiar, Director of the Centre for Civil Society. ‘I couldn’t have asked for a better supervisor. Dr Mottiar helped guide my study, provided constructive criticism and kept me on deadline.’
The graduate is currently awaiting a response on his PhD application, while searching for a job. He plans to complete his PhD and obtain a permanent job in the developmental field to apply his learned knowledge and help South Africa achieve its developmental aspirations.
Advising other postgraduate students, he implored them to pursue studies they are passionate about and to take advantage of all resources available to them. He also urged students to take care of themselves mentally and physically.
Shange chose to study at UKZN because it is a world-class university with a rich history and a strong reputation for academic excellence. He also found the University’s commitment to social responsibility and community engagement appealing. ‘UKZN’s outreach programmes and initiatives are focused on improving the lives of people in surrounding communities, and students are encouraged to participate.’
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