Economic resilience in low-income African communities: Assessing post-COVID-19 ramifications and indigenous mitigation strategies

Background: The coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) pandemic had significant economic consequences for South Africans, prompting the government to implement contingency plans to manage and mitigate its effects. These strategies required strict compliance from the population, particularly in low-income communities. Aim: This study aimed to provide an in-depth account of the economic ramifications of COVID-19 and the outcomes of government-imposed mitigation measures on compliance within low-income communities. Setting: The study was conducted in informal settlements located around Johannesburg and Cape Town, South Africa. Methods: A qualitative case study approach was adopted. Data were collected through individual and group interviews with residents of the selected informal settlements. Thematic analysis was used to identify key themes related to government strategies and their economic outcomes. Results: The study identified two main themes: (1) government strategies to prevent contagion and ensure compliance, which included lockdown, social distancing and economic relief initiatives and (2) economic ramifications, where residents experienced substantial economic hardship because of restrictions, including loss of income, food insecurity and limited access to essential services, which in turn affected their ability to comply with public health measures. Conclusion: The findings highlight the complex interplay between government pandemic-control strategies and the economic realities faced by low-income communities. Economic hardship significantly affected compliance with COVID-19 mitigation measures. Contribution: This study contributes to a deeper understanding of how pandemic mitigation strategies influence vulnerable populations, providing valuable insights for policymakers to design more effective and equitable public health interventions in times of crisis.