Gender, poverty and economic adjustment in Harare, Zimbabwe.

This study examines the gender-differentiated effects of Structural Adjustment Programs (SAPs) on households in Zimbabwe during 1991. Interviews and focus groups were conducted among 120 randomly selected households in Kambuzuma, a densely populated suburb of Harare with mostly Black residents with a considerable range in income. Interviews were conducted in mid-1991 and reinterviews were conducted among 100 households in mid-1992. 40 semi-structured interviews and focus groups were conducted. Policy changes were partially instituted, and intensification of changes was planned during 1991-95. By 1992 debt servicing increased rather than decreased as planned. Adjustments were made in employment sectors, cost of living, and social services. Findings reveal that cost of living for lower-income urban families rose by 45%. Expenditures showed a real decline among the lowest 25% income group by 12.4%. Food expenditures declined by 15.4% in real income in the lowest income group and by only 3.4% in the highest income group. Food declines in male-headed households were 1.3% in real terms, but 13.4% in female-headed households, which were predominantly low-income households. The lowest-income households were found to cut back on absolute amounts of food consumed, as well as shifting to food with greater bulk and less protein. The mid-day meal among women and children was eliminated. Rents increased, as did transportation costs. Low-income and high-income (with 3-4 children) households had difficulty paying school fees. Out of the sample of 100, the number of households that could not afford to buy clothes increased from 6 to 28 during 1991-92. 89% of households were employed in 1991, but only 85% were employed in 1992. The number of second earners increased by 1%. Unemployment numbers and dependents rose. Women's income generating activities declined during 1991-92. Average monthly income from regular activities declined by 45% in real terms and declined for irregular activities by 23%. Real income, when increased cost of living was accounted for, declined by almost 25% for the whole sample. Mean monthly incomes declined by 15.9% for the top income group and 38% for the bottom 25% income group. The percentage of households in debt rose from 8% to 12%. The increase in household size as a coping strategy is confirmed. It is concluded that class-based inequities must be changed in order to improve the lives of both men and women that are affected by SAPs.