Abstract
Background: Research on Quality of Life (QoL) which includes both objective living conditions and subjective perceptions, is important for public policies and human development programmes. However, despite the high proportion of youth within the South African population, and the rapid expansion of informal settlements, the QoL of youth living in informal settlements has received minimal attention.
Aim: The aim of the study was to investigate the socio-economic living conditions of youth living in Zandspruit informal settlement and their perceived impact on their quality of life.
Method: Guided by the Integrative theory of QoL the research employed a predominantly qualitative approach with a small quantitative component embedded within a case study design framework where 20 youth between the ages of 18 and 35 years and who residents of Zandspruit informal settlement were interviewed face-to-face. Descriptive statistics were used to analyse quantitative data, while thematic analysis was employed to analyse qualitative data.
Findings: The reasons for participants living in this informal settlement included having been born in the area; having migrated to Zandspruit due to family issues; poor conditions in rural areas; and to further their studies. Most of the participants were unemployed and had to rely on government grants or piece jobs to meet their daily needs. Benefits of living in Zandspruit included having sporting programmes, business opportunities, availability of goods and services, close proximity to other places and job opportunities, and meeting people from different backgrounds and learning about their lives. The main challenges were lack of basic services such as water, sanitation, electricity and refuse removal. Most participants were living with their families in their own shack or were renting a shack and had access to an outdoor communal tap and a mobile toilet. Sources of energy included paraffin, gas and illegal electricity connections. They spent most of their time during the week and over the weekends doing house chores; socializing with friends and family, participating in group activities, and job hunting. Participants also experienced challenges affecting their physical and mental health and feelings of safety. As a result of these living conditions, most participants were either dissatisfied or very dissatisfied with their QoL.
Conclusion: The study highlights the harsh living conditions of youth in informal settlements such as Zandspruit, and the need to improve access to affordable housing and basic services such as water, sanitation, electricity, refuse removal and security, as they impact on QoL.