Livelihood Change in Rural Zimbabwe over 20 Years

Abstract

This article explores the changing livelihood strategies among a group of rural households in southern Zimbabwe across 20 years. The study uses a combination of a household survey, in-depth biographical interviews and wealth ranking to examine livelihood change. The households studied in 1986–1987 were all traced two decades on, and the pattern of livelihood transitions was analysed. In addition, a set of ‘secondary households’, offshoots of the original ‘primary households’, were also traced, revealing important changes in livelihood opportunity for the next generation. The article reflects on the methodological challenges of exploring longitudinal livelihood change. In conclusion, the key dynamics of livelihood transitions over this period are highlighted, along with the implications these have for rural development and agrarian change.