Struggling on the Move: The Food Security Experiences of Zimbabwean Migrants in the Border Town of Musina, South Africa

A combination of political, economic and social factors continue to trigger large-scale migration from Zimbabwe. By far the most favourite destination for Zimbabwean migrants is South Africa. While there have been studies on the food security of Zimbabwean migrants at their destination in South Africa, little is known about the nature, magnitude and severity of the food insecurity that they face as they transit to their destinations. The study seeks to analyse the food insecurity of Zimbabwean migrants transiting through the border town of Musina, paying particular attention to their livelihoods, food security experiences, coping strategies and the gendered nature of these experiences. The study objective will be achieved through answering the following research questions: (1) What livelihoods are Zimbabwean migrants engaging while transiting through the border town of Musina? (2) What are the gendered food security experiences of these Zimbabwean migrants while domiciled in the town? (3) What are the key challenges faced by Zimbabwean migrants in Musina in accessing adequate, safe, nutritious and culturally-appropriate foods and how are these challenges experienced by different genders of migrants? (4) Which strategies do Zimbabwe migrants in Musina adopt to deal with food security challenges in the town and how do these strategies differ between male and female migrants? The study will use primarily qualitative approach including in-depth interviews and Photovoice.