Environmental shocks of recent years, including erratic rainfall and the progression of the AIDS pandemic have had a fundamental impact on rural African communities. Poverty is increasing, social and economic infrastructures are deteriorating and the environment is becoming degraded. This has enhanced the value of children. Very often their labour power, from as early as the age of six, is essential to their families' survival. This research project focused on a rural district in Eastern Province, Zambia, an area where women have on average 7.1 children. The region was badly hit by the 1992 drought, resulting in chronic poverty. There are increasing rates of HIV infection. Of particular interest was the link between these difficulties, the value of children, and the effects on human fertility. The research started with interviews with key informants at national and provincial levels and consultation of data, documents and reports. Village based research included interviews, household questionnaires, case studies, and participant observation. Mapping, child-to-child interviews and small discussion groups were effective methods of involving children. Project duration was June 1994 - June 1997. Research findings: The importance of labour and cash transactions for rural households is intensified in periods of environmental and social change; Environmental and social change is impacting on family structures and the roles of family members; Fertility is increasingly being used by young women in their own favour....(excerpted from online description of project)
Social and Environmental Disturbance: Impacts on Fertility and Poverty in Africa