“When in Joburg Relatives Show their True Colours”: 'The changing role of the family as a source of social capital among Zimbabwean migrants in Johannesburg'

Abstract

This study analyses the changing role of the family as a source of social capital in aiding migration, settlement and social integration of Zimbabwean migrants. The study is based on qualitative interviews with 58 Zimbabwean migrants in Tembisa and Kempton Park in Johannesburg metropolitan city. The article makes an important contribution to literature revealing how as a result of decreased chances to get a good job, pressure to remit back home and expectations to look after newcomers, Zimbabwean migrant families are experiencing economic strain resulting in tense and hostile relations and rejection of new migrants.

Keywords

• family
• hostility
• migrants
• opportunity structure
• social capital