Dependency Syndrome or Empowerment? A Qualitative Study of The Lived Experiences of Unconditional Cash Transfer Beneficiaries in Masvingo, Zimbabwe

Abstract

This study examines the dual impact of Unconditional Cash Transfers (UCTs) on beneficiaries, focusing on the interplay between empowerment and dependency, a critical gap in existing literature that often overlooks the nuanced experiences of recipients in resource-constrained settings. Using a qualitative approach, in-depth interviews were conducted with 15 UCT recipients from rural Masvingo, Zimbabwe, to capture their lived experiences. Thematic analysis was employed to identify key patterns and insights, guided by Sen’s Capability Approach and Self-Determination Theory, which emphasize the importance of resources, autonomy, and competence in fostering empowerment. Findings reveal that UCTs provide critical short-term relief, enabling beneficiaries to meet basic needs, invest in small enterprises, and improve household welfare. Participants reported enhanced mental health, reduced stress, and greater financial autonomy as significant benefits, aligning with the empowerment narratives of scholars like Haushofer and Shapiro (2016). However, challenges such as social stigma, heightened familial expectations, and limited access to complementary resources like training or capital constrained long-term self-sufficiency, echoing concerns raised by Lagomarsino (2019) and Devereux (2016). These findings underscore the need for UCT programs to go beyond financial assistance by integrating capacity-building measures, such as skills training and access to credit, to mitigate dependency risks and foster sustainable empowerment. Additionally, community sensitization campaigns ensure beneficiaries feel dignified and supported in their journey toward self-reliance. By amplifying the voices of beneficiaries, this study contributes to the evolving discourse on UCTs as a transformative tool for poverty alleviation, offering actionable insights for policymakers and practitioners aiming to design holistic social protection strategies.