Socioeconomic Challenges and Coping Strategies of Youth-Headed Households in Mamotintane Village, in Limpopo Province, South Africa

Abstract

The study looks at the socioeconomic challenges of youth-headed households in Mamotintane village, Limpopo Province. It examines how they deal with such challenges, which may include being unable to continue their studies and a lack of parental support after their parents have passed away. The capital social theory and African-centred philosophy were used in this study to better understand the experiences of youth-led families in Mamotintane. The study used a qualitative research approach and a phenomenological design to investigate the socioeconomic issues of these families. Eight youth-headed households were purposefully sampled. The participants’ ages ranged from 18 to 35 and they all did not live with their parents, who died of natural causes. They have assumed the responsibility of caring for their siblings. Semi-structured interviews were used to collect data, with each lasting about 45 minutes. The data was analysed using qualitative thematic analysis, and four themes were discovered. According to the findings, after their parents died, individuals became the heads of their households. They took on parental responsibilities, which was difficult for some of them because they did not have formal employment; instead, they run small businesses to support themselves and their siblings. As a result, it is advised that financial assistance be made available to help youth-headed households improve their businesses, as some rely on these businesses to support themselves and feed their families. Also, Financial National Student Aid (NSFAS) gives priority to youth-headed households, as some could not continue their studies due to parental loss. In conclusion, these young people belong to the community, and it is the village’s responsibility to help them in the absence of their parents.