Poverty, Inequality and Access to Land: The Lived Realities of Women in Rural KwaZulu-Natal formed the focus of a thesis which rewarded Ms Sibongile Nhlapho with a Doctorate in Public Policy.
Dr Nhlapho’s novel research critically examined whether implemented legislation had achieved justice for women, particularly rural women regarding access to land.
She expanded: ‘Land is crucial for women. It provides shelter, a means of production and can be used as collateral for loans. My study examines the complex interplay of poverty, gender inequality, and land access difficulties faced by women in rural Kwa-Zulu Natal from the apartheid era to the current democratic dispensation. It explores the impact of historical land dispossession, cultural gender norms, and certain legal practices that contribute to women’s struggles in acquiring land.’
Although the post-apartheid constitution of South Africa and the Bill of Rights, intended to rectify historical injustices, promising socio-political and economic rights to marginalised communities, especially the impoverished and vulnerable, Nhlapho’s findings show otherwise.
‘I found that despite constitutional provisions prohibiting gender-based discrimination and injustice, such discrimination persists, highlighting a gap between policy and practice in South Africa. My study identifies the continued marginalisation of women as a result of colonial and democratic policies, further perpetuated by a high illiteracy rate among rural women, labour tenants, and farm dwellers,’ she said.
There was also a concerning low representation of women in key strategic positions within traditional structures despite legislation mandating a certain percentage of women in tribal councils and ward committees. Rural women often faced challenges in acquiring land due to communal land systems and persistent historical gender biases.
These challenges to rural women’s equality even 30 years into democracy, showed slow constitutional and policy development progress.
Nhlapho shared that listening to the challenges faced by the women she interviewed had been very touching. ‘Their stories were emotionally charged and motivated me to help bring meaningful change to their situations through my research.’
Reflecting on her academic journey, Nhlapho said: ‘UKZN is the best institution with both human and technological resources. My supervisors Dr Fikile Vilakazi and Dr Lungile Zondi were great leaders. Their diligence and dedication are highly commendable. Even during my tough times of stress and wanting to give up, they were pillars of strength. I must also acknowledge the support I received from my family and fellow students.’
Nhlapho plans to continue her quest for lifelong learning as well as publish articles, register for more courses and assist others to reach their study goals.
‘Education is the key,’ she says.
