Agency amidst adversity: Female migrants, social constraints, and the spirit of Ubuntu

Migration is often viewed as a pathway to empowerment and improved livelihoods, particularly for women seeking economic opportunities in urban settings. However, internal female migrants frequently encounter significant social constraints that undermine their agency and limit their ability to fully participate in decision-making processes that affect their lives. This paper examines the interplay between women’s agency and social constraints among female migrants in Ondangwa, Namibia, a town that serves as a hub for internal migration within the country. Grounded in the philosophy of Ubuntu, which emphasizes interconnectedness, communal support, and collective well-being, this study explores how these women navigate systemic barriers while fostering resilience and mutual empowerment within their communities. Drawing on qualitative data collected through in-depth interviews, thematic analysis was used to identify recurring patterns and themes related to social constraints, agency, and resilience. The study reveals that female migrants in Ondangwa navigate a complex web of challenges, including patriarchal structures, economic dependency, and cultural expectations that often restrict their autonomy. These constraints are compounded by limited access to resources and discriminatory practices, which hinder their ability to contribute meaningfully to family and community life—a core tenet of Ubuntu’s ethos of “I am because we are.” Despite these systemic barriers, the findings highlight the remarkable resilience and resourcefulness of these women as they assert their agency. Drawing on communal networks and shared experiences, Respondents demonstrated how principles of Ubuntu, such as solidarity, mutual aid, and collective responsibility, enable them to overcome adversity. For instance, informal networks of support among migrant women serve as critical safety nets, providing emotional, social, and economic assistance in times of need. Additionally, women employ diverse strategies, including economic entrepreneurship, cultural negotiation, and community mobilization, to challenge restrictive norms and reshape their social realities in alignment with Ubuntu’s values of inclusivity and shared humanity. Ultimately, the study underscores the importance of recognizing and supporting women’s agency as a critical factor in fostering inclusive and equitable societies. By addressing the root causes of marginalization and implementing targeted, Ubuntu-aligned interventions, policymakers and stakeholders can create an enabling environment where migrant women can thrive, contributing not only to their own well-being but also to the broader socio-economic development of their host communities.