Abstract

MSABAH, Barnabé Anzuruni. Horizons in transformational development and transnational migration: Does hope matter?. Scriptura [online]. 2018, vol.117, pp.1-14. ISSN 2305-445X.  https://doi.org/10.7833/117-1-1369.

There is growing interest in the wellbeing of refugees and particularly the strategies they employ in their quest for improved livelihoods. This article reports on a recent study on the dynamics of the refugee phenomenon. It focuses largely on the long-term livelihood strategies that refugee migrants bring into play so as to earn their living and improve their wellbeing amid sheer vulnerability. The study reveals that the majority of African refugees in Cape Town have shifted from short-term survival mechanisms such as the dependence on relief from churches, faith-based organisations, mosques, etc., to long-term strategies. The article concludes by exploring the concept of development as hope in action. Here, it is established that although a considerable number of refugees leave their home countries with a certain level of uncertainty concerning their survival in the hosting country, they use their hope as a resource to improve their livelihoods.

Keywords : Transformational Development; Practical Theology; Hope in Action; Refugee Phenomenon; Survival Mechanism.

        · text in English     · English ( pdf )