Life across borders : Coping strategies of vulnerable young Zimbabwean female immigrants in Johannesburg, South Africa

Abstract

The migration of women is continuing to gain attention on different platforms and scholarly works. Women make up almost half of all the migrants globally. However, they are met with a number of challenges in the destination country as a result of intersectional factors that continue to make them vulnerable. There are limited studies that show how immigrants in the African context, specifically young female immigrants, cope with the challenges that they face. This qualitative study explored the coping strategies used by young Zimbabwean female immigrants in Johannesburg to deal with their vulnerability. Data were collected through in-depth individual interviews and focus group discussions with young Zimbabwean female immigrants and migration experts. Data were analysed thematically using the Atlas.ti software for qualitative data analysis. The study found that female immigrants use individual and communal coping strategies to deal with vulnerability which did not, however, provide them with permanent solutions to their challenges. The strategies only helped them to stay strong during their time in Johannesburg. The findings of this study emphasise the need to strengthen individual and communal strategies, and advocate for collaboration with other stakeholders to help these immigrants to cope with their vulnerability.