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

Abstract

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.