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- 2025| Adonis & Abbey Publi...Unrestrained capitalism with concomitant racial discrimination and social inequality has become characteristic of South Africa in the post-apartheid period. The July 2021 riots are one of many protests that reflected the need for effective measures towards developing a more equal society. The purpose of this study is to document the varied perceptions of citizens about the contributing factors of the July 2021 riots. This qualitative study, which documents the perceptions of purposively selected community members in KwaZulu-Natal, illustrated that the current socio-economic circumstances and continued racial discrimination can be considered relevant structural concomitants of the riots. Through non-probability sampling, 19 in-depth interviews and 4 focus group discussions were conducted with scholars, journalists, students, community, religious leaders, and activists. The theoretical framework of this study is grounded in critical race theory and racialised capitalism. Data revealed that perceived reasons for the riots were numerous, including economic disparity, social disintegration, and relative deprivation. Racial tensions between Africans and Indians in KwaZulu-Natal have historical antecedents. This study contributes to the documentation of the prevalence of violence in post-conflict societies in the global south and the continued existence of racial capitalism in South Africa. The practical value of these findings is that they may assist in identifying social cohesion policies and programmes to prevent the recurrence of such riots.
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- Informal food vending has grown as a form of employment in South Africa’s cities and rural districts, particularly post 1994. For many, participating in informal food vending is the only option to earn a livelihood. The aim of this study was to describe the conditions of women who live on the margins of society and struggle as informal food vendors. Through purposive sampling, 12 qualitative in-depth interviews were conducted with black African women in the Durban central business district. Findings show the majority of participants lack support from their male spouses despite the labour intensive work that they are forced to do. Unorthodox cooking skills are required to prepare meals for customers and efficiency in production and marketing is required because the sales contribute to family livelihoods. Findings highlight the abuse and exploitation these vendors are exposed to by unscrupulous municipal officials and the lack of municipal and organised labour assistance to address their economic marginalisation and social repression. This study highlights the challenges that these women face in the informal economy and their negative perceptions of civic organisations in Durban, South Africa.
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