The Participation of social workers in livelihood programming for women in urban areas

Author

Chiona, Sharon R.

Title

The Participation of social workers in livelihood programming for women in urban areas

Abstract

In the heart of Glenview 1, an urban community in Zimbabwe, a critical exploration unfolded, delving into the pivotal role of social workers in shaping the livelihoods and empowerment of women. This qualitative case study, driven by a triad of objectives, sought to uncover the intricate tapestry of social worker participation in livelihood programming, its impact on women’s well-being, and the strategies needed to optimize this vital collaboration. Through the voices of 9 women participants and 6 key informant social workers, a rich tapestry of insights emerged, revealing a landscape fraught with challenges – inadequate collaboration, unclear roles, capacity constraints, and persistent contextual barriers. These limitations, in turn, cast a shadow over the women’s journeys, dampening their sense of empowerment and self-sufficiency, and undermining the sustainability of the initiatives. Yet, amidst these complexities, the study unearthed a path forward, identifying strategies to enhance social worker participation, from investment in capacity building to fostering multi-stakeholder partnerships and ensuring meaningful community engagement. These recommendations, grounded in the realities of Glenview 1, hold the promise of transforming the landscape of livelihood programming, empowering women and elevating the critical contributions of social workers – a testament to the power of collaboration, resilience, and the relentless pursuit of equitable and sustainable development

Date

June 2024

Publisher

BUSE

Keywords

Social workers

Livelihood programming

Women empowerment

Urban areas

Supervisor

N/A