Orientation: The informal sector is argued as an important context of work for African immigrants in South Africa. More research is needed to understand this important context of work. Research purpose: The study explores how immigrants make sense of their work experience as informed by the taint associated with dirty work in the South African informal sector. Motivation for the study: Strategies need to be in place to assist those in challenging work contexts, such as dirty work. Research approach/design and method: The study used a qualitative research approach, relying on interviews with 27 immigrants working within the informal sector in the Eastern Cape province of South Africa. Main findings: Three key narratives emerged: (1) immigrants experienced stigma linked to the taint of dirty work in the informal sector; (2) this stigma led to mental strain; and (3) immigrants responded with agentic, proactive behaviours to cope. Practical/managerial implications: Targeted support interventions are needed to reduce the stigma of dirty work. Advocacy and educational campaigns can help reframe such work as essential to societal well-being and local economies. Contribution/value-add: This study amplifies the often-overlooked voices of workers in informal, stigmatised labour. It offers new insights into how occupational taint is experienced, resisted, and negotiated in South Africa’s informal economy, enriching Global South perspectives.
Cobbinah et al. (Tue,) studied this question.