Livelihood Strategies of the Marginalized Urban Poor: Insights from the Negede Weyto People of Bahir Dar, Ethiopia

Abstract

The urban poor, experiencing year-round uncertainty and livelihood insecurity, are compelled to adopt various survival strategies to meet daily challenges. This study draws on micro-level data collected through field surveys in Bahir Dar City, where the Negede Weyto people reside. The study aims to understand the nature of poverty within the community and the various livelihood strategies they adopt to cope with its challenges. The major challenges and opportunities of the people are also revisited. The study utilized both primary and secondary data, which are qualitative and quantitative in nature. The primary data were collected from 375 randomly selected households and four Focus Group Discussions (FGDs). The findings indicate that a large share of this population depends on daily labor for their income, though income levels differ across and within different occupational groups. Using a Multinomial Logistic Regression Model, the study examined factors influencing the choice of livelihood strategies among the Negede Weyto, revealing that the majority of the Negede Weyto people are self-employed. The educational status of the household head positively and significantly influences the likelihood of being in the wage-employed category compared with the collective support category. The results also show that the Negede Weyto have limited access to livelihood resources and are vulnerable to various shocks, leading to livelihood insecurity. The study also highlighted a gap between government policies and their implementation, with NGO policies often failing to address the realities faced by the urban poor. Additionally, limitations in the capacity of local governments and NGOs have contributed to ongoing livelihood vulnerability. The study recommends improved access to education, which is crucial for changing the livelihood structure of these groups in the long run. Special financial support should also be provided to reduce the poverty-induced dropout of children among the Negede Weyto people. The paper notes that these groups dominate the production of basketry. Therefore, the government could enhance their livelihoods by providing targeted market support, such as ensuring appropriate workplaces, input/raw material support, access to skill training to enhance their competitiveness and market penetration throughout the country, promoting their products, and negotiating higher prices for their goods.