The impact of remittances on the rural household poverty in Namibia: A case of Ohangwena constituency, Ohangwena region
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Date
2023
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Publisher
University of Namibia
Abstract
Migration is a global concern that impacts the socio-economy of any country. Migration
occurs at international and internal levels. It is known to put pressure on a country's
resource allocation when proper planning has yet to be done; it may affect development.
A large portion of migration involves internal migration from rural to urban areas for
economic reasons. In some countries, migration is also known as a strategy to reduce
poverty in rural areas through remittances. This thesis sought to investigate the impact of
remittances on rural household poverty in Namibia, and a case study in the Ohangwena
constituency, Ohangwena region, was conducted. The study's objectives were to identify
the nature of remittances sent by migrants to the rural household, to explore the uses of
remittances in the rural household, and to investigate the impact of the remittances on the
rural household. The study used a qualitative approach to collect data. A sample of 20
rural households was selected using a snowball sampling procedure. Data was collected
using an interview guide through key informants per rural household. The study revealed
that many rural households receive cash, food, materials, goods, and equipment
remittances. The study also found that remittances are used to improve the living standards
of the rural household, as most participants have mentioned buying food for consumption
in the household as one of the primary uses of remittances. Others were paying bills,
agricultural purposes, improving housing structures, and many more. The findings have
also revealed that remittances positively impact the rural household as they have enhanced
many rural households after migration, such as improved employment rates, food security,
income, health, and education, and the household's general well-being. One of the study
recommendations is for development planners to mainstream migration in development
plans to improve rural poverty and achieve rural development
Description
A thesis submitted in partial fulfilment of the requirements for the degree of master of arts in development studies
Keywords
Remittance, Migration, Poverty, Household