The contribution of rural non-farm economic activities to the livelihoods of women in the Eastern Cape: The case of Keiskamahoek and Alice town in the Amathole District
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Date
2025-07
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University of Fort Hare
Abstract
Women have often been left behind with limited to non-participation in development. These women are exposed to many injustices, and with limited security, many of them are reliant on their male counterparts for survival and security. Women are vulnerable more especially in marginalised communities where there’s limited to non-education about women’s rights. The study therefore seeks to assess the contribution of rural non-farm economic activities in the on the livelihoods of rural women of Keiskammahoek and Alice. Rural Non- Farm Economy has been practiced widely in the past decades as it came into prominence in the 1970s. developing economies are actively present in this sector but little attention and support have shown to women. The intention of the study is to examine the contributions of the rural non-farm economy as a sustainable tool for their livelihoods in Alice and Keiskammahoek under the Amathole District. The study opted for a snowball sampling as women who are in this sector know one another, and it was convenient enough for the researcher. A sample of 40 participants was selected from both towns and divided in half, 20 in Alice and 20 in Keiskammahoek. The study used the mixed methods approach as the researcher felt that one method won’t do justice to the topic. The study used SPSS version 20 and Excel for the numeric data. For the qualitative data the used thematic analysis and created themes from the research objectives. The sector has indeed proven that with support and monitoring it is a viable opportunity for these women. Even though faced with serious challenges these women are not fazed out by any. More dedication and visits from the office of the rural development and from local municipalities are needed, to educate about possible options to grow in this sector, introduce them to funding initiatives, monitor and advise in ways to grow in this while ensuring sustainability. It is imperative that will not gain formal employment; therefore, the Rural Non-Farm Economy must be adopted as means to address the past and continuous injustices amongst women and ensure development. Even though this research was limited, it still offers valuable information, fresh perspectives, increased understanding, helpful ideas, and encourages positive conversations. All of this is meant to help create and put in place better plans and actions to support the Rural Non-Farm sector. This sector is important for Amathole, as it can help reduce poverty, improve access to food, and boost growth in other parts of the economy. While this study only looked closely at Alice and Keiskammahoek, the results could serve as a useful model for other countries in Sub-Saharan Africa looking for ways to better support the progress of women in rural areas.
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Keywords
Women in rural development, Rural development -- South Africa, South Africa -- Economic conditions