Paper short abstract:

This study explores Black women’s livelihood strategies in South African townships affected by mining. Central to the discussion is ‘hustling’. Amidst the precarious living conditions imposed by mining activities, hustling allows women to sustain their families.

Paper long abstract:

As the global demand for mineral resources rises, the South African mining industry is expected to draw further interest, even as some sectors experience a decline. This has been framed as an opportunity for the country to promote further grow, but many are concerned about the negative social and environmental externalities. Women in particular have been shown to bear the brunt of extractive activities while enjoying little of the benefits. Despite efforts to reduce gender biases in the industry, women are still given very limited opportunities. This is particularly true for women who experience multiple forms of oppression. As more research is warranted on gendered perspectives of resource extraction, this study focuses on the lived experiences of Black women living in townships affected by mining. To do so, the study connects to existing literature on gender and mining in South Africa and draws from extensive multi-sited fieldwork done over the course of three months in the provinces of Gauteng, Free State, Northern Cape, Limpopo and Mpumalanga. Central to the discussion is “hustling”, namely a livelihood strategy which consists of engaging in one or more side jobs, small businesses or other entrepreneurial activities to generate income. In the context of South African townships, hustling allows women to sustain their families amidst precarious living conditions. Mining is viewed by most as a source of tension and insecurity, which further exacerbates their vulnerability. Some women, however, find in mine dumps chances to make a living through hustling as artisanal miners