Intergenerational Transfer of Poverty: A Case of ward 7 and 13 in Bulawayo, Zimbabwe

ABSTRACT This paper provides an overview of the thinking of the intergenerational transmission (IGT) of poverty. It firstly provides an analytical framework, for understanding the mechanisms by which, poverty is transmitted from one generation to another and factors which might support resilience. It then presents a synthesis of relevant empirical evidence. Finally, it identifies policy instruments that might plausibly limit transmission in different contexts. A purposive sampling method was used, to select a study sample of community organizations and the selected sample was interviewed using structured questionnaires, to obtain information regarding the sample family. The paper reveals a high participation by respondents in the informal sector, with very low average incomes of between $80-150. In addition, despite fewer years of schooling, women generally invest marginally, more than men in the study. However, while investments may prove useful, the fact that participants marry within their class, suggests a perpetual cycle in the grips of intergenerational poverty. A key recommendation is that, interventions can be designed to accommodate generations so as to stymie the reach of inherited poverty, while uplifting the plight of younger people.