Thoth distribution@thoth.pub 20260402T064910

urn:uuid:39e741e3-ed78-4102-ac92-8efaa0733054 03 01 01 thoth-work-id urn:uuid:7659d2fe-0e39-4bcf-bc1f-50199dbf6e59 01 thoth-publication-id urn:uuid:39e741e3-ed78-4102-ac92-8efaa0733054 15 9781990982293 03 9781990982293 06 10.4102/aosis.2025.BK565 01 internal-reference BK565 00 BC 10 01 244 mm 01 24.4 cm 01 9.61 in 02 170 mm 02 17 cm 02 6.69 in Creative Commons Attribution-NonCommercial-NoDerivatives 4.0 International license (CC BY-NC-ND 4.0). 02 https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-nc-nd/4.0/ 01 01 Ukonga among women in rural spaces A Nelson Mandela Children’s Fund-inspired community project 1 B01 21 0000000196184956 Joyce Mnesi Mdiniso Joyce Mnesi Mdiniso 40 03v8ter60 University of Zululand 2 B01 21 0000000229281526 Allucia Shokane Allucia Shokane 40 03v8ter60 University of Zululand Faculty of Humanities and Social Sciences, University of Zululand, KwaDlangezwa, South Africa 3 B01 Mapule Cheela Mapule Cheela Sustainable Livelihoods Program Manager, Nelson Mandela Children’s Fund, Johannesburg, South Africa 01 eng 00 108 03 09 24 93 JHB B2 SDG 1 93 JBF B2 SDG 5 93 JKSN B2 SDG 8 01 06 02 00 03 00 Empowering women is at the heart of sustainable development. Ukonga among women in rural spaces: A Nelson Mandela Children's Fund‑inspired community project showcases how women’s self‑help groups in Eshowe within the uMlalazi Local Municipality in KwaZulu‑Natal, South Africa, have risen as driving forces of change, transforming lives, strengthening families, fostering financial independence and building resilience in rural South African communities.<break/>When the Nelson Mandela Children’s Fund was founded in 1995, Nelson Mandela contributed from his own pocket towards establishing an organisation that continues to exist in his honour for nearly 30 years. In the same spirit of self‑reliance and discipline, the Fund introduced the Sustainable Livelihoods Project, implemented in partnership with the KwaZulu‑Natal Christian Council and their community facilitators, supporting these women’s self‑help groups that encourage saving, collective action and sustainable livelihoods. These initiatives enable women to overcome poverty, access education and health care and develop entrepreneurship skills. The project has directly contributed to strengthening families through community‑based initiatives that improve the care and support of infants, children, youth, expectant mothers and caregivers. Despite limited resources, training and logistical challenges, communities have built homes using locally‑produced cement blocks and initiated income‑generating projects, such as poultry farming and vegetable cultivation and trading to sustain their livelihoods.<break/>This book combines rigorous qualitative and quantitative research from scholars at the University of Zululand, telling the stories of the lived experiences of these women in rural KwaZulu‑Natal, offering real-world evidence of the positive socioeconomic impact. It is a vital resource for policymakers, practitioners, researchers and all who are committed to supporting women’s empowerment, sustainable community development and reducing dependency on state grants. Above all, the book tells a story of the power of collaboration between communities, civil society and academia, creating lasting change for women, children and families living in rural South African communities. 30 00 Empowering women is at the heart of sustainable development. Ukonga among women in rural spaces: A Nelson Mandela Children's Fund‑inspired community project showcases how women’s self‑help groups in Eshowe within the uMlalazi Local Municipality in KwaZulu‑Natal, South Africa, have risen as driving forces of change, transforming lives, strengthening families, fostering financial independence and building resilience in rural South African communities.<break/>When the Nelson Mandela Children’s Fund was founded in 1995, Nelson Mandela contributed from his own pocket towards establishing an organisation that continues to exist in his honour for nearly 30 years. In the same spirit of self‑reliance and discipline, the Fund introduced the Sustainable Livelihoods Project, implemented in partnership with the KwaZulu‑Natal Christian Council and their community facilitators, supporting these women’s self‑help groups that encourage saving, collective action and sustainable livelihoods. These initiatives enable women to overcome poverty, access education and health care and develop entrepreneurship skills. The project has directly contributed to strengthening families through community‑based initiatives that improve the care and support of infants, children, youth, expectant mothers and caregivers. Despite limited resources, training and logistical challenges, communities have built homes using locally‑produced cement blocks and initiated income‑generating projects, such as poultry farming and vegetable cultivation and trading to sustain their livelihoods.<break/>This book combines rigorous qualitative and quantitative research from scholars at the University of Zululand, telling the stories of the lived experiences of these women in rural KwaZulu‑Natal, offering real-world evidence of the positive socioeconomic impact. It is a vital resource for policymakers, practitioners, researchers and all who are committed to supporting women’s empowerment, sustainable community development and reducing dependency on state grants. Above all, the book tells a story of the power of collaboration between communities, civil society and academia, creating lasting change for women, children and families living in rural South African communities. 20 00 Open Access 01 00 03 02 Cover image: This cover design was created by Leon Bellingan with the use of an image and corporate identity emblems provided by the Nelson Mandela Children’s Fund. No unauthorised replication allowed. All rights reserved. 02 https://books.aosis.co.za/index.php/ob/$$$call$$$/submission/cover/thumbnail?submissionId=565&random=5656983319888d34 1 03 06 10.4102/aosis.2025.BK565.0f xvii xviii Creative Commons Attribution-NonCommercial-NoDerivatives 4.0 International license (CC BY-NC-ND 4.0). 02 https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-nc-nd/4.0/ Chapter 01 01 Foreword: Nelson Mandela Children’s Fund 1 A23 Linda Ncube-Nkomo Linda Ncube-Nkomo Chief Executive Officer, Nelson Mandela Children’s Fund, Johannesburg, South Africa 01 eng 20 00 Open Access 2 03 06 10.4102/aosis.2025.BK565.0g xix xx Creative Commons Attribution-NonCommercial-NoDerivatives 4.0 International license (CC BY-NC-ND 4.0). 02 https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-nc-nd/4.0/ Chapter 01 01 Foreword: University of Zululand 1 A23 21 000900081256589X Xoliswa Mtose Xoliswa Mtose Vice-Chancellor 40 03v8ter60 University of Zululand Vice-Chancellor, University of Zululand, KwaDlangezwa, Richards Bay, South Africa 20 00 Open Access 3 03 06 10.4102/aosis.2025.BK565.0p xxi xxii Creative Commons Attribution-NonCommercial-NoDerivatives 4.0 International license (CC BY-NC-ND 4.0). 02 https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-nc-nd/4.0/ Chapter 01 01 Preface 1 A15 21 0000000196184956 Joyce Mnesi Mdiniso Joyce Mnesi Mdiniso 40 03v8ter60 University of Zululand Department of Anthropology and Development Studies, Faculty of Humanities and Social Sciences, University of Zululand, KwaDlangezwa, South Africa 2 A15 21 0000000229281526 Allucia Lulu Shokane Allucia Lulu Shokane 40 03v8ter60 University of Zululand Faculty of Humanities and Social Sciences, University of Zululand, KwaDlangezwa, South Africa 3 A15 Mapule Cheela Mapule Cheela Sustainable Livelihoods Programme Manager, Nelson Mandela Children’s Fund, Johannesburg, South Africa 20 00 Open Access 4 03 06 10.4102/aosis.2025.BK565.0i 1 11 Creative Commons Attribution-NonCommercial-NoDerivatives 4.0 International license (CC BY-NC-ND 4.0). 02 https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-nc-nd/4.0/ Chapter 01 01 Introduction 1 A24 21 0000000229281526 Allucia Lulu Shokane Allucia Shokane 40 03v8ter60 University of Zululand Faculty of Humanities and Social Sciences, University of Zululand, KwaDlangezwa, South Africa 2 A24 21 000000030466494X Stanley Maphosa Stanley Maphosa 40 03v8ter60 University of Zululand 40 02qsf1r97 Academy of Science of South Africa aDepartment of Anthropology and Development Studies, Faculty of Humanities and Social Sciences, University of Zululand, Richards Bay, South Africa bInternational and National Liaison Manager, Academy of Science of South Africa, Pretoria, South Africa 3 A24 Mapule Cheela Mapule Cheela Sustainable Livelihoods Programme Manager, Nelson Mandela Children’s Fund, Johannesburg, South Africa 4 A24 21 0000000307269021 Simangele Constance Cele Simangele Constance Cele 40 03v8ter60 University of Zululand Department of Sociology, Faculty of Humanities and Social Sciences, University of Zululand, Richards Bay, South Africa 5 A24 21 0000000233353633 Mogomme Alpheus Masoga Mogomme Alpheus Masoga 40 009xwd568 University of the Free State Office of the Dean, Faculty of Humanities, University of the Free State, Bloemfontein, South Africa 20 00 Open Access 5 03 06 10.4102/aosis.2025.BK565.01 13 30 Creative Commons Attribution-NonCommercial-NoDerivatives 4.0 International license (CC BY-NC-ND 4.0). 02 https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-nc-nd/4.0/ Chapter 01 01 A historical analysis of the Sustainable Livelihoods Project funded by the Nelson Mandela Children’s Fund 1 A01 21 0000000307269021 Simangele Constance Cele Simangele Constance Cele 40 03v8ter60 University of Zululand Department of Sociology, Faculty of Humanities and Social Sciences, University of Zululand, Richards Bay, South Africa 2 A01 21 0000000196184956 Joyce Mnesi Mdiniso Joyce Mnesi Mdiniso 40 03v8ter60 University of Zululand Department of Anthropology and Development Studies, Faculty of Humanities and Social Sciences, University of Zululand, KwaDlangezwa, South Africa 3 A01 21 0000000242434427 Nolwazi Mabaleka Nolwazi Mabaleka 40 03v8ter60 University of Zululand Department of Recreation and Tourism, Faculty of Humanities and Social Sciences, University of Zululand, Richards Bay, South Africa 4 A01 21 000000030466494X Stanley Maphosa Stanley Maphosa 40 03v8ter60 University of Zululand 40 02qsf1r97 Academy of Science of South Africa aDepartment of Anthropology and Development Studies, Faculty of Humanities and Social Sciences, University of Zululand, Richards Bay, South Africa bInternational and National Liaison Manager, Academy of Science of South Africa, Pretoria, South Africa 5 A01 21 0000000213354532 Simphiwe Nojiyeza Simphiwe Nojiyeza 40 03v8ter60 University of Zululand Department of Anthropology and Development Studies, Faculty of Humanities and Social Sciences, University of Zululand, Richards Bay, South Africa 6 A01 Mapule Cheela Mapule Cheela Sustainable Livelihoods Programme Manager, Nelson Mandela Children’s Fund, Johannesburg, South Africa 01 eng 20 00 Open Access 6 03 06 10.4102/aosis.2025.BK565.02 31 50 Creative Commons Attribution-NonCommercial-NoDerivatives 4.0 International license (CC BY-NC-ND 4.0). 02 https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-nc-nd/4.0/ Chapter 01 01 Community involvement and its impact in self-help groups’ savings mobilisation 1 A01 21 0000000242434427 Nolwazi Mabaleka Nolwazi Mabaleka 40 03v8ter60 University of Zululand Department of Recreation and Tourism, Faculty of Humanities and Social Sciences, University of Zululand, Richards Bay, South Africa 2 A01 21 0000000218848152 Mildred Samukelisiwe Nkwanyana Mildred Samukelisiwe Nkwanyana 40 03v8ter60 University of Zululand Department of Recreation and Tourism, Faculty of Humanities and Social Sciences, University of Zululand, Richards Bay, South Africa 3 A01 21 0000000307269021 Simangele Constance Cele Simangele Constance Cele 40 03v8ter60 University of Zululand Department of Sociology, Faculty of Humanities and Social Sciences, University of Zululand, Richards Bay, South Africa 4 A01 21 0000000160889030 Gugulethu C Nkosi Gugulethu C Nkosi 40 03v8ter60 University of Zululand Department of Recreation and Tourism, Faculty of Humanities and Social Sciences, University of Zululand, KwaDlangezwa, South Africa 5 A01 21 0000000196184956 Joyce Mnesi Mdiniso Joyce Mnesi Mdiniso 40 03v8ter60 University of Zululand Department of Anthropology and Development Studies, Faculty of Humanities and Social Sciences, University of Zululand, KwaDlangezwa, South Africa 01 eng 20 00 Open Access 7 03 06 10.4102/aosis.2025.BK565.03 51 64 Creative Commons Attribution-NonCommercial-NoDerivatives 4.0 International license (CC BY-NC-ND 4.0). 02 https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-nc-nd/4.0/ Chapter 01 01 Evaluating the triumphs and trials of the Ukonga Savings Mobilisation Programme 1 A01 21 0000000289519630 Nompumelelo Linda Nompumelelo Linda 40 03v8ter60 University of Zululand Department of Recreation and Tourism, Faculty of Humanities and Social Sciences, University of Zululand, Richards Bay, South Africa 2 A01 21 0000000242434427 Nolwazi Mabaleka Nolwazi Mabaleka 40 03v8ter60 University of Zululand Department of Recreation and Tourism, Faculty of Humanities and Social Sciences, University of Zululand, Richards Bay, South Africa 3 A01 21 0000000307269021 Simangele Constance Cele Simangele Constance Cele 40 03v8ter60 University of Zululand Department of Sociology, Faculty of Humanities and Social Sciences, University of Zululand, Richards Bay, South Africa 4 A01 21 0000000196184956 Joyce Mnesi Mdiniso Joyce Mnesi Mdiniso 40 03v8ter60 University of Zululand Department of Anthropology and Development Studies, Faculty of Humanities and Social Sciences, University of Zululand, KwaDlangezwa, South Africa 5 A01 21 0000000160889030 Gugulethu Sebenzile Nkosi Gugulethu Sebenzile Nkosi 40 03v8ter60 University of Zululand Department of Recreation and Tourism, Faculty of Humanities and Social Sciences, University of Zululand, KwaDlangezwa, South Africa 20 00 Open Access 8 03 06 10.4102/aosis.2025.BK565.04 65 71 Creative Commons Attribution-NonCommercial-NoDerivatives 4.0 International license (CC BY-NC-ND 4.0). 02 https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-nc-nd/4.0/ Chapter 01 01 Strategic interventions and policy recommendations for enhancing the Project’s impact 1 A01 21 0000000160889030 Gugulethu Sebenzile Nkosi Gugulethu Sebenzile Nkosi 40 03v8ter60 University of Zululand Department of Recreation and Tourism, Faculty of Humanities and Social Sciences, University of Zululand, KwaDlangezwa, South Africa 2 A01 21 0000000289519630 Nompumelelo Linda Nompumelelo Linda 40 03v8ter60 University of Zululand Department of Recreation and Tourism, Faculty of Humanities and Social Sciences, University of Zululand, Richards Bay, South Africa 3 A01 21 0000000307269021 Simangele Constance Cele Simangele Constance Cele 40 03v8ter60 University of Zululand Department of Sociology, Faculty of Humanities and Social Sciences, University of Zululand, Richards Bay, South Africa 4 A01 21 0000000218848152 Mildred Samukelisiwe Nkwanyana Mildred Samukelisiwe Nkwanyana 40 03v8ter60 University of Zululand Department of Recreation and Tourism, Faculty of Humanities and Social Sciences, University of Zululand, Richards Bay, South Africa 5 A01 21 0000000196184956 Joyce Mnesi Mdiniso Joyce Mnesi Mdiniso 40 03v8ter60 University of Zululand Department of Anthropology and Development Studies, Faculty of Humanities and Social Sciences, University of Zululand, KwaDlangezwa, South Africa 6 A01 21 0000000242434427 Nolwazi Mabaleka Nolwazi Mabaleka 40 03v8ter60 University of Zululand Department of Recreation and Tourism, Faculty of Humanities and Social Sciences, University of Zululand, Richards Bay, South Africa 20 00 Open Access ITUTA Books 01 AOSIS 01 Publisher's website: home page https://aosis.co.za/ AOSIS, Durbanville, Cape Town 04 01 20251121 Copyright 2025 © Joyce Mnesi Mdiniso, Allucia Lulu Shokane & Mapule Cheela. Licensee: AOSIS (Pty) Ltd. The moral rights of the editors, authors and participants have been asserted. 02 WORLD 06 15 9781990982309 03 9781990982309 06 15 9781990982323 03 9781990982323 06 15 9781990982316 03 9781990982316 WORLD 11 Unknown 36 Unspecified hosting platform: webpage for this product https://books.aosis.co.za/index.php/ob/catalog/book/565 29 Unspecified hosting platform: download the title https://www.amazon.com/dp/B0GL7ZXCW8 20 08 20251121 01 urn:uuid:78ed7ce0-0507-44c7-9290-0c222a4daf58 03 01 01 thoth-work-id urn:uuid:7659d2fe-0e39-4bcf-bc1f-50199dbf6e59 01 thoth-publication-id urn:uuid:78ed7ce0-0507-44c7-9290-0c222a4daf58 15 9781990982309 03 9781990982309 06 10.4102/aosis.2025.BK565 01 internal-reference BK565 00 BB 10 01 244 mm 01 24.4 cm 01 9.61 in 02 170 mm 02 17 cm 02 6.69 in Creative Commons Attribution-NonCommercial-NoDerivatives 4.0 International license (CC BY-NC-ND 4.0). 02 https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-nc-nd/4.0/ 01 01 Ukonga among women in rural spaces A Nelson Mandela Children’s Fund-inspired community project 1 B01 21 0000000196184956 Joyce Mnesi Mdiniso Joyce Mnesi Mdiniso 40 03v8ter60 University of Zululand 2 B01 21 0000000229281526 Allucia Shokane Allucia Shokane 40 03v8ter60 University of Zululand Faculty of Humanities and Social Sciences, University of Zululand, KwaDlangezwa, South Africa 3 B01 Mapule Cheela Mapule Cheela Sustainable Livelihoods Program Manager, Nelson Mandela Children’s Fund, Johannesburg, South Africa 01 eng 00 108 03 09 24 93 JHB B2 SDG 1 93 JBF B2 SDG 5 93 JKSN B2 SDG 8 01 06 02 00 03 00 Empowering women is at the heart of sustainable development. Ukonga among women in rural spaces: A Nelson Mandela Children's Fund‑inspired community project showcases how women’s self‑help groups in Eshowe within the uMlalazi Local Municipality in KwaZulu‑Natal, South Africa, have risen as driving forces of change, transforming lives, strengthening families, fostering financial independence and building resilience in rural South African communities.<break/>When the Nelson Mandela Children’s Fund was founded in 1995, Nelson Mandela contributed from his own pocket towards establishing an organisation that continues to exist in his honour for nearly 30 years. In the same spirit of self‑reliance and discipline, the Fund introduced the Sustainable Livelihoods Project, implemented in partnership with the KwaZulu‑Natal Christian Council and their community facilitators, supporting these women’s self‑help groups that encourage saving, collective action and sustainable livelihoods. These initiatives enable women to overcome poverty, access education and health care and develop entrepreneurship skills. The project has directly contributed to strengthening families through community‑based initiatives that improve the care and support of infants, children, youth, expectant mothers and caregivers. Despite limited resources, training and logistical challenges, communities have built homes using locally‑produced cement blocks and initiated income‑generating projects, such as poultry farming and vegetable cultivation and trading to sustain their livelihoods.<break/>This book combines rigorous qualitative and quantitative research from scholars at the University of Zululand, telling the stories of the lived experiences of these women in rural KwaZulu‑Natal, offering real-world evidence of the positive socioeconomic impact. It is a vital resource for policymakers, practitioners, researchers and all who are committed to supporting women’s empowerment, sustainable community development and reducing dependency on state grants. Above all, the book tells a story of the power of collaboration between communities, civil society and academia, creating lasting change for women, children and families living in rural South African communities. 30 00 Empowering women is at the heart of sustainable development. Ukonga among women in rural spaces: A Nelson Mandela Children's Fund‑inspired community project showcases how women’s self‑help groups in Eshowe within the uMlalazi Local Municipality in KwaZulu‑Natal, South Africa, have risen as driving forces of change, transforming lives, strengthening families, fostering financial independence and building resilience in rural South African communities.<break/>When the Nelson Mandela Children’s Fund was founded in 1995, Nelson Mandela contributed from his own pocket towards establishing an organisation that continues to exist in his honour for nearly 30 years. In the same spirit of self‑reliance and discipline, the Fund introduced the Sustainable Livelihoods Project, implemented in partnership with the KwaZulu‑Natal Christian Council and their community facilitators, supporting these women’s self‑help groups that encourage saving, collective action and sustainable livelihoods. These initiatives enable women to overcome poverty, access education and health care and develop entrepreneurship skills. The project has directly contributed to strengthening families through community‑based initiatives that improve the care and support of infants, children, youth, expectant mothers and caregivers. Despite limited resources, training and logistical challenges, communities have built homes using locally‑produced cement blocks and initiated income‑generating projects, such as poultry farming and vegetable cultivation and trading to sustain their livelihoods.<break/>This book combines rigorous qualitative and quantitative research from scholars at the University of Zululand, telling the stories of the lived experiences of these women in rural KwaZulu‑Natal, offering real-world evidence of the positive socioeconomic impact. It is a vital resource for policymakers, practitioners, researchers and all who are committed to supporting women’s empowerment, sustainable community development and reducing dependency on state grants. Above all, the book tells a story of the power of collaboration between communities, civil society and academia, creating lasting change for women, children and families living in rural South African communities. 20 00 Open Access 01 00 03 02 Cover image: This cover design was created by Leon Bellingan with the use of an image and corporate identity emblems provided by the Nelson Mandela Children’s Fund. No unauthorised replication allowed. All rights reserved. 02 https://books.aosis.co.za/index.php/ob/$$$call$$$/submission/cover/thumbnail?submissionId=565&random=5656983319888d34 1 03 06 10.4102/aosis.2025.BK565.0f xvii xviii Creative Commons Attribution-NonCommercial-NoDerivatives 4.0 International license (CC BY-NC-ND 4.0). 02 https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-nc-nd/4.0/ Chapter 01 01 Foreword: Nelson Mandela Children’s Fund 1 A23 Linda Ncube-Nkomo Linda Ncube-Nkomo Chief Executive Officer, Nelson Mandela Children’s Fund, Johannesburg, South Africa 01 eng 20 00 Open Access 2 03 06 10.4102/aosis.2025.BK565.0g xix xx Creative Commons Attribution-NonCommercial-NoDerivatives 4.0 International license (CC BY-NC-ND 4.0). 02 https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-nc-nd/4.0/ Chapter 01 01 Foreword: University of Zululand 1 A23 21 000900081256589X Xoliswa Mtose Xoliswa Mtose Vice-Chancellor 40 03v8ter60 University of Zululand Vice-Chancellor, University of Zululand, KwaDlangezwa, Richards Bay, South Africa 20 00 Open Access 3 03 06 10.4102/aosis.2025.BK565.0p xxi xxii Creative Commons Attribution-NonCommercial-NoDerivatives 4.0 International license (CC BY-NC-ND 4.0). 02 https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-nc-nd/4.0/ Chapter 01 01 Preface 1 A15 21 0000000196184956 Joyce Mnesi Mdiniso Joyce Mnesi Mdiniso 40 03v8ter60 University of Zululand Department of Anthropology and Development Studies, Faculty of Humanities and Social Sciences, University of Zululand, KwaDlangezwa, South Africa 2 A15 21 0000000229281526 Allucia Lulu Shokane Allucia Lulu Shokane 40 03v8ter60 University of Zululand Faculty of Humanities and Social Sciences, University of Zululand, KwaDlangezwa, South Africa 3 A15 Mapule Cheela Mapule Cheela Sustainable Livelihoods Programme Manager, Nelson Mandela Children’s Fund, Johannesburg, South Africa 20 00 Open Access 4 03 06 10.4102/aosis.2025.BK565.0i 1 11 Creative Commons Attribution-NonCommercial-NoDerivatives 4.0 International license (CC BY-NC-ND 4.0). 02 https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-nc-nd/4.0/ Chapter 01 01 Introduction 1 A24 21 0000000229281526 Allucia Lulu Shokane Allucia Shokane 40 03v8ter60 University of Zululand Faculty of Humanities and Social Sciences, University of Zululand, KwaDlangezwa, South Africa 2 A24 21 000000030466494X Stanley Maphosa Stanley Maphosa 40 03v8ter60 University of Zululand 40 02qsf1r97 Academy of Science of South Africa aDepartment of Anthropology and Development Studies, Faculty of Humanities and Social Sciences, University of Zululand, Richards Bay, South Africa bInternational and National Liaison Manager, Academy of Science of South Africa, Pretoria, South Africa 3 A24 Mapule Cheela Mapule Cheela Sustainable Livelihoods Programme Manager, Nelson Mandela Children’s Fund, Johannesburg, South Africa 4 A24 21 0000000307269021 Simangele Constance Cele Simangele Constance Cele 40 03v8ter60 University of Zululand Department of Sociology, Faculty of Humanities and Social Sciences, University of Zululand, Richards Bay, South Africa 5 A24 21 0000000233353633 Mogomme Alpheus Masoga Mogomme Alpheus Masoga 40 009xwd568 University of the Free State Office of the Dean, Faculty of Humanities, University of the Free State, Bloemfontein, South Africa 20 00 Open Access 5 03 06 10.4102/aosis.2025.BK565.01 13 30 Creative Commons Attribution-NonCommercial-NoDerivatives 4.0 International license (CC BY-NC-ND 4.0). 02 https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-nc-nd/4.0/ Chapter 01 01 A historical analysis of the Sustainable Livelihoods Project funded by the Nelson Mandela Children’s Fund 1 A01 21 0000000307269021 Simangele Constance Cele Simangele Constance Cele 40 03v8ter60 University of Zululand Department of Sociology, Faculty of Humanities and Social Sciences, University of Zululand, Richards Bay, South Africa 2 A01 21 0000000196184956 Joyce Mnesi Mdiniso Joyce Mnesi Mdiniso 40 03v8ter60 University of Zululand Department of Anthropology and Development Studies, Faculty of Humanities and Social Sciences, University of Zululand, KwaDlangezwa, South Africa 3 A01 21 0000000242434427 Nolwazi Mabaleka Nolwazi Mabaleka 40 03v8ter60 University of Zululand Department of Recreation and Tourism, Faculty of Humanities and Social Sciences, University of Zululand, Richards Bay, South Africa 4 A01 21 000000030466494X Stanley Maphosa Stanley Maphosa 40 03v8ter60 University of Zululand 40 02qsf1r97 Academy of Science of South Africa aDepartment of Anthropology and Development Studies, Faculty of Humanities and Social Sciences, University of Zululand, Richards Bay, South Africa bInternational and National Liaison Manager, Academy of Science of South Africa, Pretoria, South Africa 5 A01 21 0000000213354532 Simphiwe Nojiyeza Simphiwe Nojiyeza 40 03v8ter60 University of Zululand Department of Anthropology and Development Studies, Faculty of Humanities and Social Sciences, University of Zululand, Richards Bay, South Africa 6 A01 Mapule Cheela Mapule Cheela Sustainable Livelihoods Programme Manager, Nelson Mandela Children’s Fund, Johannesburg, South Africa 01 eng 20 00 Open Access 6 03 06 10.4102/aosis.2025.BK565.02 31 50 Creative Commons Attribution-NonCommercial-NoDerivatives 4.0 International license (CC BY-NC-ND 4.0). 02 https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-nc-nd/4.0/ Chapter 01 01 Community involvement and its impact in self-help groups’ savings mobilisation 1 A01 21 0000000242434427 Nolwazi Mabaleka Nolwazi Mabaleka 40 03v8ter60 University of Zululand Department of Recreation and Tourism, Faculty of Humanities and Social Sciences, University of Zululand, Richards Bay, South Africa 2 A01 21 0000000218848152 Mildred Samukelisiwe Nkwanyana Mildred Samukelisiwe Nkwanyana 40 03v8ter60 University of Zululand Department of Recreation and Tourism, Faculty of Humanities and Social Sciences, University of Zululand, Richards Bay, South Africa 3 A01 21 0000000307269021 Simangele Constance Cele Simangele Constance Cele 40 03v8ter60 University of Zululand Department of Sociology, Faculty of Humanities and Social Sciences, University of Zululand, Richards Bay, South Africa 4 A01 21 0000000160889030 Gugulethu C Nkosi Gugulethu C Nkosi 40 03v8ter60 University of Zululand Department of Recreation and Tourism, Faculty of Humanities and Social Sciences, University of Zululand, KwaDlangezwa, South Africa 5 A01 21 0000000196184956 Joyce Mnesi Mdiniso Joyce Mnesi Mdiniso 40 03v8ter60 University of Zululand Department of Anthropology and Development Studies, Faculty of Humanities and Social Sciences, University of Zululand, KwaDlangezwa, South Africa 01 eng 20 00 Open Access 7 03 06 10.4102/aosis.2025.BK565.03 51 64 Creative Commons Attribution-NonCommercial-NoDerivatives 4.0 International license (CC BY-NC-ND 4.0). 02 https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-nc-nd/4.0/ Chapter 01 01 Evaluating the triumphs and trials of the Ukonga Savings Mobilisation Programme 1 A01 21 0000000289519630 Nompumelelo Linda Nompumelelo Linda 40 03v8ter60 University of Zululand Department of Recreation and Tourism, Faculty of Humanities and Social Sciences, University of Zululand, Richards Bay, South Africa 2 A01 21 0000000242434427 Nolwazi Mabaleka Nolwazi Mabaleka 40 03v8ter60 University of Zululand Department of Recreation and Tourism, Faculty of Humanities and Social Sciences, University of Zululand, Richards Bay, South Africa 3 A01 21 0000000307269021 Simangele Constance Cele Simangele Constance Cele 40 03v8ter60 University of Zululand Department of Sociology, Faculty of Humanities and Social Sciences, University of Zululand, Richards Bay, South Africa 4 A01 21 0000000196184956 Joyce Mnesi Mdiniso Joyce Mnesi Mdiniso 40 03v8ter60 University of Zululand Department of Anthropology and Development Studies, Faculty of Humanities and Social Sciences, University of Zululand, KwaDlangezwa, South Africa 5 A01 21 0000000160889030 Gugulethu Sebenzile Nkosi Gugulethu Sebenzile Nkosi 40 03v8ter60 University of Zululand Department of Recreation and Tourism, Faculty of Humanities and Social Sciences, University of Zululand, KwaDlangezwa, South Africa 20 00 Open Access 8 03 06 10.4102/aosis.2025.BK565.04 65 71 Creative Commons Attribution-NonCommercial-NoDerivatives 4.0 International license (CC BY-NC-ND 4.0). 02 https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-nc-nd/4.0/ Chapter 01 01 Strategic interventions and policy recommendations for enhancing the Project’s impact 1 A01 21 0000000160889030 Gugulethu Sebenzile Nkosi Gugulethu Sebenzile Nkosi 40 03v8ter60 University of Zululand Department of Recreation and Tourism, Faculty of Humanities and Social Sciences, University of Zululand, KwaDlangezwa, South Africa 2 A01 21 0000000289519630 Nompumelelo Linda Nompumelelo Linda 40 03v8ter60 University of Zululand Department of Recreation and Tourism, Faculty of Humanities and Social Sciences, University of Zululand, Richards Bay, South Africa 3 A01 21 0000000307269021 Simangele Constance Cele Simangele Constance Cele 40 03v8ter60 University of Zululand Department of Sociology, Faculty of Humanities and Social Sciences, University of Zululand, Richards Bay, South Africa 4 A01 21 0000000218848152 Mildred Samukelisiwe Nkwanyana Mildred Samukelisiwe Nkwanyana 40 03v8ter60 University of Zululand Department of Recreation and Tourism, Faculty of Humanities and Social Sciences, University of Zululand, Richards Bay, South Africa 5 A01 21 0000000196184956 Joyce Mnesi Mdiniso Joyce Mnesi Mdiniso 40 03v8ter60 University of Zululand Department of Anthropology and Development Studies, Faculty of Humanities and Social Sciences, University of Zululand, KwaDlangezwa, South Africa 6 A01 21 0000000242434427 Nolwazi Mabaleka Nolwazi Mabaleka 40 03v8ter60 University of Zululand Department of Recreation and Tourism, Faculty of Humanities and Social Sciences, University of Zululand, Richards Bay, South Africa 20 00 Open Access ITUTA Books 01 AOSIS 01 Publisher's website: home page https://aosis.co.za/ AOSIS, Durbanville, Cape Town 04 01 20251121 Copyright 2025 © Joyce Mnesi Mdiniso, Allucia Lulu Shokane & Mapule Cheela. Licensee: AOSIS (Pty) Ltd. The moral rights of the editors, authors and participants have been asserted. 02 WORLD 06 15 9781990982293 03 9781990982293 06 15 9781990982323 03 9781990982323 06 15 9781990982316 03 9781990982316 WORLD 09 AOSIS 20 08 20251121 01 urn:uuid:2f5b99ca-8be2-4394-8a27-92acd3bda7cd 03 01 01 thoth-work-id urn:uuid:7659d2fe-0e39-4bcf-bc1f-50199dbf6e59 01 thoth-publication-id urn:uuid:2f5b99ca-8be2-4394-8a27-92acd3bda7cd 15 9781990982323 03 9781990982323 06 10.4102/aosis.2025.BK565 01 internal-reference BK565 00 EB E107 10 Creative Commons Attribution-NonCommercial-NoDerivatives 4.0 International license (CC BY-NC-ND 4.0). 02 https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-nc-nd/4.0/ 01 01 Ukonga among women in rural spaces A Nelson Mandela Children’s Fund-inspired community project 1 B01 21 0000000196184956 Joyce Mnesi Mdiniso Joyce Mnesi Mdiniso 40 03v8ter60 University of Zululand 2 B01 21 0000000229281526 Allucia Shokane Allucia Shokane 40 03v8ter60 University of Zululand Faculty of Humanities and Social Sciences, University of Zululand, KwaDlangezwa, South Africa 3 B01 Mapule Cheela Mapule Cheela Sustainable Livelihoods Program Manager, Nelson Mandela Children’s Fund, Johannesburg, South Africa 01 eng 00 108 03 09 24 93 JHB B2 SDG 1 93 JBF B2 SDG 5 93 JKSN B2 SDG 8 01 06 02 00 03 00 Empowering women is at the heart of sustainable development. Ukonga among women in rural spaces: A Nelson Mandela Children's Fund‑inspired community project showcases how women’s self‑help groups in Eshowe within the uMlalazi Local Municipality in KwaZulu‑Natal, South Africa, have risen as driving forces of change, transforming lives, strengthening families, fostering financial independence and building resilience in rural South African communities.<break/>When the Nelson Mandela Children’s Fund was founded in 1995, Nelson Mandela contributed from his own pocket towards establishing an organisation that continues to exist in his honour for nearly 30 years. In the same spirit of self‑reliance and discipline, the Fund introduced the Sustainable Livelihoods Project, implemented in partnership with the KwaZulu‑Natal Christian Council and their community facilitators, supporting these women’s self‑help groups that encourage saving, collective action and sustainable livelihoods. These initiatives enable women to overcome poverty, access education and health care and develop entrepreneurship skills. The project has directly contributed to strengthening families through community‑based initiatives that improve the care and support of infants, children, youth, expectant mothers and caregivers. Despite limited resources, training and logistical challenges, communities have built homes using locally‑produced cement blocks and initiated income‑generating projects, such as poultry farming and vegetable cultivation and trading to sustain their livelihoods.<break/>This book combines rigorous qualitative and quantitative research from scholars at the University of Zululand, telling the stories of the lived experiences of these women in rural KwaZulu‑Natal, offering real-world evidence of the positive socioeconomic impact. It is a vital resource for policymakers, practitioners, researchers and all who are committed to supporting women’s empowerment, sustainable community development and reducing dependency on state grants. Above all, the book tells a story of the power of collaboration between communities, civil society and academia, creating lasting change for women, children and families living in rural South African communities. 30 00 Empowering women is at the heart of sustainable development. Ukonga among women in rural spaces: A Nelson Mandela Children's Fund‑inspired community project showcases how women’s self‑help groups in Eshowe within the uMlalazi Local Municipality in KwaZulu‑Natal, South Africa, have risen as driving forces of change, transforming lives, strengthening families, fostering financial independence and building resilience in rural South African communities.<break/>When the Nelson Mandela Children’s Fund was founded in 1995, Nelson Mandela contributed from his own pocket towards establishing an organisation that continues to exist in his honour for nearly 30 years. In the same spirit of self‑reliance and discipline, the Fund introduced the Sustainable Livelihoods Project, implemented in partnership with the KwaZulu‑Natal Christian Council and their community facilitators, supporting these women’s self‑help groups that encourage saving, collective action and sustainable livelihoods. These initiatives enable women to overcome poverty, access education and health care and develop entrepreneurship skills. The project has directly contributed to strengthening families through community‑based initiatives that improve the care and support of infants, children, youth, expectant mothers and caregivers. Despite limited resources, training and logistical challenges, communities have built homes using locally‑produced cement blocks and initiated income‑generating projects, such as poultry farming and vegetable cultivation and trading to sustain their livelihoods.<break/>This book combines rigorous qualitative and quantitative research from scholars at the University of Zululand, telling the stories of the lived experiences of these women in rural KwaZulu‑Natal, offering real-world evidence of the positive socioeconomic impact. It is a vital resource for policymakers, practitioners, researchers and all who are committed to supporting women’s empowerment, sustainable community development and reducing dependency on state grants. Above all, the book tells a story of the power of collaboration between communities, civil society and academia, creating lasting change for women, children and families living in rural South African communities. 20 00 Open Access 01 00 03 02 Cover image: This cover design was created by Leon Bellingan with the use of an image and corporate identity emblems provided by the Nelson Mandela Children’s Fund. No unauthorised replication allowed. All rights reserved. 02 https://books.aosis.co.za/index.php/ob/$$$call$$$/submission/cover/thumbnail?submissionId=565&random=5656983319888d34 1 03 06 10.4102/aosis.2025.BK565.0f xvii xviii Creative Commons Attribution-NonCommercial-NoDerivatives 4.0 International license (CC BY-NC-ND 4.0). 02 https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-nc-nd/4.0/ Chapter 01 01 Foreword: Nelson Mandela Children’s Fund 1 A23 Linda Ncube-Nkomo Linda Ncube-Nkomo Chief Executive Officer, Nelson Mandela Children’s Fund, Johannesburg, South Africa 01 eng 20 00 Open Access 2 03 06 10.4102/aosis.2025.BK565.0g xix xx Creative Commons Attribution-NonCommercial-NoDerivatives 4.0 International license (CC BY-NC-ND 4.0). 02 https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-nc-nd/4.0/ Chapter 01 01 Foreword: University of Zululand 1 A23 21 000900081256589X Xoliswa Mtose Xoliswa Mtose Vice-Chancellor 40 03v8ter60 University of Zululand Vice-Chancellor, University of Zululand, KwaDlangezwa, Richards Bay, South Africa 20 00 Open Access 3 03 06 10.4102/aosis.2025.BK565.0p xxi xxii Creative Commons Attribution-NonCommercial-NoDerivatives 4.0 International license (CC BY-NC-ND 4.0). 02 https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-nc-nd/4.0/ Chapter 01 01 Preface 1 A15 21 0000000196184956 Joyce Mnesi Mdiniso Joyce Mnesi Mdiniso 40 03v8ter60 University of Zululand Department of Anthropology and Development Studies, Faculty of Humanities and Social Sciences, University of Zululand, KwaDlangezwa, South Africa 2 A15 21 0000000229281526 Allucia Lulu Shokane Allucia Lulu Shokane 40 03v8ter60 University of Zululand Faculty of Humanities and Social Sciences, University of Zululand, KwaDlangezwa, South Africa 3 A15 Mapule Cheela Mapule Cheela Sustainable Livelihoods Programme Manager, Nelson Mandela Children’s Fund, Johannesburg, South Africa 20 00 Open Access 4 03 06 10.4102/aosis.2025.BK565.0i 1 11 Creative Commons Attribution-NonCommercial-NoDerivatives 4.0 International license (CC BY-NC-ND 4.0). 02 https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-nc-nd/4.0/ Chapter 01 01 Introduction 1 A24 21 0000000229281526 Allucia Lulu Shokane Allucia Shokane 40 03v8ter60 University of Zululand Faculty of Humanities and Social Sciences, University of Zululand, KwaDlangezwa, South Africa 2 A24 21 000000030466494X Stanley Maphosa Stanley Maphosa 40 03v8ter60 University of Zululand 40 02qsf1r97 Academy of Science of South Africa aDepartment of Anthropology and Development Studies, Faculty of Humanities and Social Sciences, University of Zululand, Richards Bay, South Africa bInternational and National Liaison Manager, Academy of Science of South Africa, Pretoria, South Africa 3 A24 Mapule Cheela Mapule Cheela Sustainable Livelihoods Programme Manager, Nelson Mandela Children’s Fund, Johannesburg, South Africa 4 A24 21 0000000307269021 Simangele Constance Cele Simangele Constance Cele 40 03v8ter60 University of Zululand Department of Sociology, Faculty of Humanities and Social Sciences, University of Zululand, Richards Bay, South Africa 5 A24 21 0000000233353633 Mogomme Alpheus Masoga Mogomme Alpheus Masoga 40 009xwd568 University of the Free State Office of the Dean, Faculty of Humanities, University of the Free State, Bloemfontein, South Africa 20 00 Open Access 5 03 06 10.4102/aosis.2025.BK565.01 13 30 Creative Commons Attribution-NonCommercial-NoDerivatives 4.0 International license (CC BY-NC-ND 4.0). 02 https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-nc-nd/4.0/ Chapter 01 01 A historical analysis of the Sustainable Livelihoods Project funded by the Nelson Mandela Children’s Fund 1 A01 21 0000000307269021 Simangele Constance Cele Simangele Constance Cele 40 03v8ter60 University of Zululand Department of Sociology, Faculty of Humanities and Social Sciences, University of Zululand, Richards Bay, South Africa 2 A01 21 0000000196184956 Joyce Mnesi Mdiniso Joyce Mnesi Mdiniso 40 03v8ter60 University of Zululand Department of Anthropology and Development Studies, Faculty of Humanities and Social Sciences, University of Zululand, KwaDlangezwa, South Africa 3 A01 21 0000000242434427 Nolwazi Mabaleka Nolwazi Mabaleka 40 03v8ter60 University of Zululand Department of Recreation and Tourism, Faculty of Humanities and Social Sciences, University of Zululand, Richards Bay, South Africa 4 A01 21 000000030466494X Stanley Maphosa Stanley Maphosa 40 03v8ter60 University of Zululand 40 02qsf1r97 Academy of Science of South Africa aDepartment of Anthropology and Development Studies, Faculty of Humanities and Social Sciences, University of Zululand, Richards Bay, South Africa bInternational and National Liaison Manager, Academy of Science of South Africa, Pretoria, South Africa 5 A01 21 0000000213354532 Simphiwe Nojiyeza Simphiwe Nojiyeza 40 03v8ter60 University of Zululand Department of Anthropology and Development Studies, Faculty of Humanities and Social Sciences, University of Zululand, Richards Bay, South Africa 6 A01 Mapule Cheela Mapule Cheela Sustainable Livelihoods Programme Manager, Nelson Mandela Children’s Fund, Johannesburg, South Africa 01 eng 20 00 Open Access 6 03 06 10.4102/aosis.2025.BK565.02 31 50 Creative Commons Attribution-NonCommercial-NoDerivatives 4.0 International license (CC BY-NC-ND 4.0). 02 https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-nc-nd/4.0/ Chapter 01 01 Community involvement and its impact in self-help groups’ savings mobilisation 1 A01 21 0000000242434427 Nolwazi Mabaleka Nolwazi Mabaleka 40 03v8ter60 University of Zululand Department of Recreation and Tourism, Faculty of Humanities and Social Sciences, University of Zululand, Richards Bay, South Africa 2 A01 21 0000000218848152 Mildred Samukelisiwe Nkwanyana Mildred Samukelisiwe Nkwanyana 40 03v8ter60 University of Zululand Department of Recreation and Tourism, Faculty of Humanities and Social Sciences, University of Zululand, Richards Bay, South Africa 3 A01 21 0000000307269021 Simangele Constance Cele Simangele Constance Cele 40 03v8ter60 University of Zululand Department of Sociology, Faculty of Humanities and Social Sciences, University of Zululand, Richards Bay, South Africa 4 A01 21 0000000160889030 Gugulethu C Nkosi Gugulethu C Nkosi 40 03v8ter60 University of Zululand Department of Recreation and Tourism, Faculty of Humanities and Social Sciences, University of Zululand, KwaDlangezwa, South Africa 5 A01 21 0000000196184956 Joyce Mnesi Mdiniso Joyce Mnesi Mdiniso 40 03v8ter60 University of Zululand Department of Anthropology and Development Studies, Faculty of Humanities and Social Sciences, University of Zululand, KwaDlangezwa, South Africa 01 eng 20 00 Open Access 7 03 06 10.4102/aosis.2025.BK565.03 51 64 Creative Commons Attribution-NonCommercial-NoDerivatives 4.0 International license (CC BY-NC-ND 4.0). 02 https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-nc-nd/4.0/ Chapter 01 01 Evaluating the triumphs and trials of the Ukonga Savings Mobilisation Programme 1 A01 21 0000000289519630 Nompumelelo Linda Nompumelelo Linda 40 03v8ter60 University of Zululand Department of Recreation and Tourism, Faculty of Humanities and Social Sciences, University of Zululand, Richards Bay, South Africa 2 A01 21 0000000242434427 Nolwazi Mabaleka Nolwazi Mabaleka 40 03v8ter60 University of Zululand Department of Recreation and Tourism, Faculty of Humanities and Social Sciences, University of Zululand, Richards Bay, South Africa 3 A01 21 0000000307269021 Simangele Constance Cele Simangele Constance Cele 40 03v8ter60 University of Zululand Department of Sociology, Faculty of Humanities and Social Sciences, University of Zululand, Richards Bay, South Africa 4 A01 21 0000000196184956 Joyce Mnesi Mdiniso Joyce Mnesi Mdiniso 40 03v8ter60 University of Zululand Department of Anthropology and Development Studies, Faculty of Humanities and Social Sciences, University of Zululand, KwaDlangezwa, South Africa 5 A01 21 0000000160889030 Gugulethu Sebenzile Nkosi Gugulethu Sebenzile Nkosi 40 03v8ter60 University of Zululand Department of Recreation and Tourism, Faculty of Humanities and Social Sciences, University of Zululand, KwaDlangezwa, South Africa 20 00 Open Access 8 03 06 10.4102/aosis.2025.BK565.04 65 71 Creative Commons Attribution-NonCommercial-NoDerivatives 4.0 International license (CC BY-NC-ND 4.0). 02 https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-nc-nd/4.0/ Chapter 01 01 Strategic interventions and policy recommendations for enhancing the Project’s impact 1 A01 21 0000000160889030 Gugulethu Sebenzile Nkosi Gugulethu Sebenzile Nkosi 40 03v8ter60 University of Zululand Department of Recreation and Tourism, Faculty of Humanities and Social Sciences, University of Zululand, KwaDlangezwa, South Africa 2 A01 21 0000000289519630 Nompumelelo Linda Nompumelelo Linda 40 03v8ter60 University of Zululand Department of Recreation and Tourism, Faculty of Humanities and Social Sciences, University of Zululand, Richards Bay, South Africa 3 A01 21 0000000307269021 Simangele Constance Cele Simangele Constance Cele 40 03v8ter60 University of Zululand Department of Sociology, Faculty of Humanities and Social Sciences, University of Zululand, Richards Bay, South Africa 4 A01 21 0000000218848152 Mildred Samukelisiwe Nkwanyana Mildred Samukelisiwe Nkwanyana 40 03v8ter60 University of Zululand Department of Recreation and Tourism, Faculty of Humanities and Social Sciences, University of Zululand, Richards Bay, South Africa 5 A01 21 0000000196184956 Joyce Mnesi Mdiniso Joyce Mnesi Mdiniso 40 03v8ter60 University of Zululand Department of Anthropology and Development Studies, Faculty of Humanities and Social Sciences, University of Zululand, KwaDlangezwa, South Africa 6 A01 21 0000000242434427 Nolwazi Mabaleka Nolwazi Mabaleka 40 03v8ter60 University of Zululand Department of Recreation and Tourism, Faculty of Humanities and Social Sciences, University of Zululand, Richards Bay, South Africa 20 00 Open Access ITUTA Books 01 AOSIS 01 Publisher's website: home page https://aosis.co.za/ AOSIS, Durbanville, Cape Town 04 01 20251121 Copyright 2025 © Joyce Mnesi Mdiniso, Allucia Lulu Shokane & Mapule Cheela. Licensee: AOSIS (Pty) Ltd. The moral rights of the editors, authors and participants have been asserted. 02 WORLD 06 15 9781990982293 03 9781990982293 06 15 9781990982309 03 9781990982309 06 15 9781990982316 03 9781990982316 WORLD 09 AOSIS 02 Publisher's website: webpage for this product https://books.aosis.co.za/index.php/ob/catalog/view/565/851/10746-1 29 Publisher's website: download the title https://books.aosis.co.za/index.php/ob/catalog/book/565 20 08 20251121 01 urn:uuid:7fa3b0cd-e7d9-475c-8157-f6320e714578 03 01 01 thoth-work-id urn:uuid:7659d2fe-0e39-4bcf-bc1f-50199dbf6e59 01 thoth-publication-id urn:uuid:7fa3b0cd-e7d9-475c-8157-f6320e714578 15 9781990982316 03 9781990982316 06 10.4102/aosis.2025.BK565 01 internal-reference BK565 00 EB E101 10 Creative Commons Attribution-NonCommercial-NoDerivatives 4.0 International license (CC BY-NC-ND 4.0). 02 https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-nc-nd/4.0/ 01 01 Ukonga among women in rural spaces A Nelson Mandela Children’s Fund-inspired community project 1 B01 21 0000000196184956 Joyce Mnesi Mdiniso Joyce Mnesi Mdiniso 40 03v8ter60 University of Zululand 2 B01 21 0000000229281526 Allucia Shokane Allucia Shokane 40 03v8ter60 University of Zululand Faculty of Humanities and Social Sciences, University of Zululand, KwaDlangezwa, South Africa 3 B01 Mapule Cheela Mapule Cheela Sustainable Livelihoods Program Manager, Nelson Mandela Children’s Fund, Johannesburg, South Africa 01 eng 00 108 03 09 24 93 JHB B2 SDG 1 93 JBF B2 SDG 5 93 JKSN B2 SDG 8 01 06 02 00 03 00 Empowering women is at the heart of sustainable development. Ukonga among women in rural spaces: A Nelson Mandela Children's Fund‑inspired community project showcases how women’s self‑help groups in Eshowe within the uMlalazi Local Municipality in KwaZulu‑Natal, South Africa, have risen as driving forces of change, transforming lives, strengthening families, fostering financial independence and building resilience in rural South African communities.<break/>When the Nelson Mandela Children’s Fund was founded in 1995, Nelson Mandela contributed from his own pocket towards establishing an organisation that continues to exist in his honour for nearly 30 years. In the same spirit of self‑reliance and discipline, the Fund introduced the Sustainable Livelihoods Project, implemented in partnership with the KwaZulu‑Natal Christian Council and their community facilitators, supporting these women’s self‑help groups that encourage saving, collective action and sustainable livelihoods. These initiatives enable women to overcome poverty, access education and health care and develop entrepreneurship skills. The project has directly contributed to strengthening families through community‑based initiatives that improve the care and support of infants, children, youth, expectant mothers and caregivers. Despite limited resources, training and logistical challenges, communities have built homes using locally‑produced cement blocks and initiated income‑generating projects, such as poultry farming and vegetable cultivation and trading to sustain their livelihoods.<break/>This book combines rigorous qualitative and quantitative research from scholars at the University of Zululand, telling the stories of the lived experiences of these women in rural KwaZulu‑Natal, offering real-world evidence of the positive socioeconomic impact. It is a vital resource for policymakers, practitioners, researchers and all who are committed to supporting women’s empowerment, sustainable community development and reducing dependency on state grants. Above all, the book tells a story of the power of collaboration between communities, civil society and academia, creating lasting change for women, children and families living in rural South African communities. 30 00 Empowering women is at the heart of sustainable development. Ukonga among women in rural spaces: A Nelson Mandela Children's Fund‑inspired community project showcases how women’s self‑help groups in Eshowe within the uMlalazi Local Municipality in KwaZulu‑Natal, South Africa, have risen as driving forces of change, transforming lives, strengthening families, fostering financial independence and building resilience in rural South African communities.<break/>When the Nelson Mandela Children’s Fund was founded in 1995, Nelson Mandela contributed from his own pocket towards establishing an organisation that continues to exist in his honour for nearly 30 years. In the same spirit of self‑reliance and discipline, the Fund introduced the Sustainable Livelihoods Project, implemented in partnership with the KwaZulu‑Natal Christian Council and their community facilitators, supporting these women’s self‑help groups that encourage saving, collective action and sustainable livelihoods. These initiatives enable women to overcome poverty, access education and health care and develop entrepreneurship skills. The project has directly contributed to strengthening families through community‑based initiatives that improve the care and support of infants, children, youth, expectant mothers and caregivers. Despite limited resources, training and logistical challenges, communities have built homes using locally‑produced cement blocks and initiated income‑generating projects, such as poultry farming and vegetable cultivation and trading to sustain their livelihoods.<break/>This book combines rigorous qualitative and quantitative research from scholars at the University of Zululand, telling the stories of the lived experiences of these women in rural KwaZulu‑Natal, offering real-world evidence of the positive socioeconomic impact. It is a vital resource for policymakers, practitioners, researchers and all who are committed to supporting women’s empowerment, sustainable community development and reducing dependency on state grants. Above all, the book tells a story of the power of collaboration between communities, civil society and academia, creating lasting change for women, children and families living in rural South African communities. 20 00 Open Access 01 00 03 02 Cover image: This cover design was created by Leon Bellingan with the use of an image and corporate identity emblems provided by the Nelson Mandela Children’s Fund. No unauthorised replication allowed. All rights reserved. 02 https://books.aosis.co.za/index.php/ob/$$$call$$$/submission/cover/thumbnail?submissionId=565&random=5656983319888d34 1 03 06 10.4102/aosis.2025.BK565.0f xvii xviii Creative Commons Attribution-NonCommercial-NoDerivatives 4.0 International license (CC BY-NC-ND 4.0). 02 https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-nc-nd/4.0/ Chapter 01 01 Foreword: Nelson Mandela Children’s Fund 1 A23 Linda Ncube-Nkomo Linda Ncube-Nkomo Chief Executive Officer, Nelson Mandela Children’s Fund, Johannesburg, South Africa 01 eng 20 00 Open Access 2 03 06 10.4102/aosis.2025.BK565.0g xix xx Creative Commons Attribution-NonCommercial-NoDerivatives 4.0 International license (CC BY-NC-ND 4.0). 02 https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-nc-nd/4.0/ Chapter 01 01 Foreword: University of Zululand 1 A23 21 000900081256589X Xoliswa Mtose Xoliswa Mtose Vice-Chancellor 40 03v8ter60 University of Zululand Vice-Chancellor, University of Zululand, KwaDlangezwa, Richards Bay, South Africa 20 00 Open Access 3 03 06 10.4102/aosis.2025.BK565.0p xxi xxii Creative Commons Attribution-NonCommercial-NoDerivatives 4.0 International license (CC BY-NC-ND 4.0). 02 https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-nc-nd/4.0/ Chapter 01 01 Preface 1 A15 21 0000000196184956 Joyce Mnesi Mdiniso Joyce Mnesi Mdiniso 40 03v8ter60 University of Zululand Department of Anthropology and Development Studies, Faculty of Humanities and Social Sciences, University of Zululand, KwaDlangezwa, South Africa 2 A15 21 0000000229281526 Allucia Lulu Shokane Allucia Lulu Shokane 40 03v8ter60 University of Zululand Faculty of Humanities and Social Sciences, University of Zululand, KwaDlangezwa, South Africa 3 A15 Mapule Cheela Mapule Cheela Sustainable Livelihoods Programme Manager, Nelson Mandela Children’s Fund, Johannesburg, South Africa 20 00 Open Access 4 03 06 10.4102/aosis.2025.BK565.0i 1 11 Creative Commons Attribution-NonCommercial-NoDerivatives 4.0 International license (CC BY-NC-ND 4.0). 02 https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-nc-nd/4.0/ Chapter 01 01 Introduction 1 A24 21 0000000229281526 Allucia Lulu Shokane Allucia Shokane 40 03v8ter60 University of Zululand Faculty of Humanities and Social Sciences, University of Zululand, KwaDlangezwa, South Africa 2 A24 21 000000030466494X Stanley Maphosa Stanley Maphosa 40 03v8ter60 University of Zululand 40 02qsf1r97 Academy of Science of South Africa aDepartment of Anthropology and Development Studies, Faculty of Humanities and Social Sciences, University of Zululand, Richards Bay, South Africa bInternational and National Liaison Manager, Academy of Science of South Africa, Pretoria, South Africa 3 A24 Mapule Cheela Mapule Cheela Sustainable Livelihoods Programme Manager, Nelson Mandela Children’s Fund, Johannesburg, South Africa 4 A24 21 0000000307269021 Simangele Constance Cele Simangele Constance Cele 40 03v8ter60 University of Zululand Department of Sociology, Faculty of Humanities and Social Sciences, University of Zululand, Richards Bay, South Africa 5 A24 21 0000000233353633 Mogomme Alpheus Masoga Mogomme Alpheus Masoga 40 009xwd568 University of the Free State Office of the Dean, Faculty of Humanities, University of the Free State, Bloemfontein, South Africa 20 00 Open Access 5 03 06 10.4102/aosis.2025.BK565.01 13 30 Creative Commons Attribution-NonCommercial-NoDerivatives 4.0 International license (CC BY-NC-ND 4.0). 02 https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-nc-nd/4.0/ Chapter 01 01 A historical analysis of the Sustainable Livelihoods Project funded by the Nelson Mandela Children’s Fund 1 A01 21 0000000307269021 Simangele Constance Cele Simangele Constance Cele 40 03v8ter60 University of Zululand Department of Sociology, Faculty of Humanities and Social Sciences, University of Zululand, Richards Bay, South Africa 2 A01 21 0000000196184956 Joyce Mnesi Mdiniso Joyce Mnesi Mdiniso 40 03v8ter60 University of Zululand Department of Anthropology and Development Studies, Faculty of Humanities and Social Sciences, University of Zululand, KwaDlangezwa, South Africa 3 A01 21 0000000242434427 Nolwazi Mabaleka Nolwazi Mabaleka 40 03v8ter60 University of Zululand Department of Recreation and Tourism, Faculty of Humanities and Social Sciences, University of Zululand, Richards Bay, South Africa 4 A01 21 000000030466494X Stanley Maphosa Stanley Maphosa 40 03v8ter60 University of Zululand 40 02qsf1r97 Academy of Science of South Africa aDepartment of Anthropology and Development Studies, Faculty of Humanities and Social Sciences, University of Zululand, Richards Bay, South Africa bInternational and National Liaison Manager, Academy of Science of South Africa, Pretoria, South Africa 5 A01 21 0000000213354532 Simphiwe Nojiyeza Simphiwe Nojiyeza 40 03v8ter60 University of Zululand Department of Anthropology and Development Studies, Faculty of Humanities and Social Sciences, University of Zululand, Richards Bay, South Africa 6 A01 Mapule Cheela Mapule Cheela Sustainable Livelihoods Programme Manager, Nelson Mandela Children’s Fund, Johannesburg, South Africa 01 eng 20 00 Open Access 6 03 06 10.4102/aosis.2025.BK565.02 31 50 Creative Commons Attribution-NonCommercial-NoDerivatives 4.0 International license (CC BY-NC-ND 4.0). 02 https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-nc-nd/4.0/ Chapter 01 01 Community involvement and its impact in self-help groups’ savings mobilisation 1 A01 21 0000000242434427 Nolwazi Mabaleka Nolwazi Mabaleka 40 03v8ter60 University of Zululand Department of Recreation and Tourism, Faculty of Humanities and Social Sciences, University of Zululand, Richards Bay, South Africa 2 A01 21 0000000218848152 Mildred Samukelisiwe Nkwanyana Mildred Samukelisiwe Nkwanyana 40 03v8ter60 University of Zululand Department of Recreation and Tourism, Faculty of Humanities and Social Sciences, University of Zululand, Richards Bay, South Africa 3 A01 21 0000000307269021 Simangele Constance Cele Simangele Constance Cele 40 03v8ter60 University of Zululand Department of Sociology, Faculty of Humanities and Social Sciences, University of Zululand, Richards Bay, South Africa 4 A01 21 0000000160889030 Gugulethu C Nkosi Gugulethu C Nkosi 40 03v8ter60 University of Zululand Department of Recreation and Tourism, Faculty of Humanities and Social Sciences, University of Zululand, KwaDlangezwa, South Africa 5 A01 21 0000000196184956 Joyce Mnesi Mdiniso Joyce Mnesi Mdiniso 40 03v8ter60 University of Zululand Department of Anthropology and Development Studies, Faculty of Humanities and Social Sciences, University of Zululand, KwaDlangezwa, South Africa 01 eng 20 00 Open Access 7 03 06 10.4102/aosis.2025.BK565.03 51 64 Creative Commons Attribution-NonCommercial-NoDerivatives 4.0 International license (CC BY-NC-ND 4.0). 02 https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-nc-nd/4.0/ Chapter 01 01 Evaluating the triumphs and trials of the Ukonga Savings Mobilisation Programme 1 A01 21 0000000289519630 Nompumelelo Linda Nompumelelo Linda 40 03v8ter60 University of Zululand Department of Recreation and Tourism, Faculty of Humanities and Social Sciences, University of Zululand, Richards Bay, South Africa 2 A01 21 0000000242434427 Nolwazi Mabaleka Nolwazi Mabaleka 40 03v8ter60 University of Zululand Department of Recreation and Tourism, Faculty of Humanities and Social Sciences, University of Zululand, Richards Bay, South Africa 3 A01 21 0000000307269021 Simangele Constance Cele Simangele Constance Cele 40 03v8ter60 University of Zululand Department of Sociology, Faculty of Humanities and Social Sciences, University of Zululand, Richards Bay, South Africa 4 A01 21 0000000196184956 Joyce Mnesi Mdiniso Joyce Mnesi Mdiniso 40 03v8ter60 University of Zululand Department of Anthropology and Development Studies, Faculty of Humanities and Social Sciences, University of Zululand, KwaDlangezwa, South Africa 5 A01 21 0000000160889030 Gugulethu Sebenzile Nkosi Gugulethu Sebenzile Nkosi 40 03v8ter60 University of Zululand Department of Recreation and Tourism, Faculty of Humanities and Social Sciences, University of Zululand, KwaDlangezwa, South Africa 20 00 Open Access 8 03 06 10.4102/aosis.2025.BK565.04 65 71 Creative Commons Attribution-NonCommercial-NoDerivatives 4.0 International license (CC BY-NC-ND 4.0). 02 https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-nc-nd/4.0/ Chapter 01 01 Strategic interventions and policy recommendations for enhancing the Project’s impact 1 A01 21 0000000160889030 Gugulethu Sebenzile Nkosi Gugulethu Sebenzile Nkosi 40 03v8ter60 University of Zululand Department of Recreation and Tourism, Faculty of Humanities and Social Sciences, University of Zululand, KwaDlangezwa, South Africa 2 A01 21 0000000289519630 Nompumelelo Linda Nompumelelo Linda 40 03v8ter60 University of Zululand Department of Recreation and Tourism, Faculty of Humanities and Social Sciences, University of Zululand, Richards Bay, South Africa 3 A01 21 0000000307269021 Simangele Constance Cele Simangele Constance Cele 40 03v8ter60 University of Zululand Department of Sociology, Faculty of Humanities and Social Sciences, University of Zululand, Richards Bay, South Africa 4 A01 21 0000000218848152 Mildred Samukelisiwe Nkwanyana Mildred Samukelisiwe Nkwanyana 40 03v8ter60 University of Zululand Department of Recreation and Tourism, Faculty of Humanities and Social Sciences, University of Zululand, Richards Bay, South Africa 5 A01 21 0000000196184956 Joyce Mnesi Mdiniso Joyce Mnesi Mdiniso 40 03v8ter60 University of Zululand Department of Anthropology and Development Studies, Faculty of Humanities and Social Sciences, University of Zululand, KwaDlangezwa, South Africa 6 A01 21 0000000242434427 Nolwazi Mabaleka Nolwazi Mabaleka 40 03v8ter60 University of Zululand Department of Recreation and Tourism, Faculty of Humanities and Social Sciences, University of Zululand, Richards Bay, South Africa 20 00 Open Access ITUTA Books 01 AOSIS 01 Publisher's website: home page https://aosis.co.za/ AOSIS, Durbanville, Cape Town 04 01 20251121 Copyright 2025 © Joyce Mnesi Mdiniso, Allucia Lulu Shokane & Mapule Cheela. Licensee: AOSIS (Pty) Ltd. The moral rights of the editors, authors and participants have been asserted. 02 WORLD 06 15 9781990982293 03 9781990982293 06 15 9781990982309 03 9781990982309 06 15 9781990982323 03 9781990982323 WORLD 11 Unknown 36 Unspecified hosting platform: webpage for this product https://books.aosis.co.za/index.php/ob/catalog/book/565 29 Unspecified hosting platform: download the title https://www.amazon.com/dp/B0GL7ZXCW8 20 08 20251121 01