The Disruption of Migrant Labour on the Labourer, Family, Community, Land and Religion or Church in South Africa during the 20th Century

Abstract

The impact of migrant labour could not be avoided by the church during the 20th century in South Africa. Migrant labour has contributed to the national economic development of South Africa. This is an important aspect of community development in terms of growing the South African economy, building infrastructure, opening business opportunities, and for South Africans to benefit from this type of economy. Initially, agriculture was the best economy for community development, driven by African people who were heavily dependent on their agricultural economy. However, the policies related to migrant labour have disrupted and lowered agricultural production that existed, and which was also thriving as an agricultural economy. Furthermore, migrant labour policies promoted numerous cases of family separation and infidelity in marriages. White missionaries collaborated with the mine owners (as colonisers) in terms of access to education and freedom of worship. However, African religion, male labourers, as well as women’s dignity and rights were violated by these same policies. The article will first discuss the socioeconomic successes and challenges caused by migrant labour in South Africa. We then explore the role of African spirituality, the contribution of missionaries and African labourers in missions and evangelism, and the role of the church in addressing the socioeconomic challenges facing migrant labourers. Lastly, the article presents an analysis of the participation of women in migrant labour (by being employed to do household domestic work) and the establishment of women’s church organisations in urban areas.