Tainted status in dirty work: Immigrant Experiences in South Africa’s Informal Sector

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.