Resilience on the street: Lived experiences of car guards in Windhoek’s central business district
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Date
2025
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Publisher
University of Namibia
Abstract
This study delves into the challenges and aspirations of car guards, a vulnerable
community aiming to improve their overall well-being. The research, conducted through
semi-structured interviews guided by qualitative methodology, offers profound
explanations for the multifaceted struggles faced by car guards. The interview used a semistructured guide, which was meticulously designed to capture the rich and diverse
experiences of car guards. In addition, photographs were used as a supplementary method
to collect data, offering a visual context for their living and working conditions. The
findings illuminate the complexities of car guards’ lives, highlighting issues such as
limited health care access, inadequate housing, financial vulnerabilities, and occupational
hazards. Despite these challenges, the study underscores the remarkable resilience,
determination, and hope demonstrated by car guards as they navigate their precarious
circumstances. This study recommends urgent policy reforms, including the revision of
restrictive municipal bylaws, and emphasises the importance of addressing basic needs
such as healthcare, clean water, and nutrition. Education and skills development
programmes are advocated to enhance employability, coupled with financial support
mechanisms and community engagement initiatives. Environmental safety training and
psychosocial support services are essential. Empowering car guards to advocate for their
rights and involving them in decision-making processes are crucial steps towards creating
a more inclusive and supportive urban environment. By implementing these
recommendations, society can recognise and nurture the resilience of car guards, thus
fostering a compassionate and equitable society for all. This comprehensive approach,
informed by qualitative research and visual data, contributes significantly to
understanding the unique experiences of car guards and supports their journey towards a
brighter future
Description
A thesis submitted in partial fulfillment of the requirements for the Degree of Master of Arts in Sociology
Keywords
Resilience, Informal sector, Car guards, Living and working conditions, Namibia, University of Namibia