Deterritorialisation of Zimbabwean immigrants' legacy beliefs in Western Cape province, South Africa

Abstract

Despite the growth of immigrant families, little has been done to bridge the gap on the legacy beliefs of the Zimbabwean immigrants in South Africa. The legacy beliefs and migration system models underpinned acculturation process and outcomes related to assimilation, rejection, biculturalism and marginalisation. An exploratory-descriptive qualitative research design was employed to explore the experiences of fifteen Zimbabwean immigrants, in the Western Cape province; they were purposively recruited to explore and describe their perceptions regarding legacy beliefs. Semi-structured interviews were audio-recorded, transcribed verbatim and analysed using reflexive thematic analysis. Trustworthiness was enhanced through a credible iterative process involving transferability, dependability and confirmability. Three themes were identified: understanding of legacy beliefs; generation of legacies; and complexities influencing preservation of family legacy beliefs. The theoretical implication of this study is that social protection systems should consider the legacy beliefs of immigrants to enhance their social integration, and promote social relationships in a harmonious environment that encourages interdependence as well as resilient societies. Overall, this study contributes to the migration systems aimed at advancing acculturation, resettlement and successful integration. This provides innovative ways for social services to improve the quality of life and well-being of immigrant families and children living in precarious situations