POVERTY IN LUANDA: A REFLECTION ON THE SURVIVAL MODE OF SOLID WASTE COLLECTORS IN THE DISTRICT OF VILA-FLOR (CAZENGA)

Abstract

In recent days, Luanda has witnessed a staggering number of people resorting to solid waste dumps to survive. To understand this phenomenon, a survey was conducted. The objective was to understand the survival of solid waste collectors in the Vila-Flor district (Cazenga). This qualitative study used bibliographical techniques, semi-structured interviews, content analysis, and simple observation, using the theory of needs, fatalism, and social representations as theoretical frameworks. To this end, the following question was posed: What solid waste contributes to the survival of solid waste collectors in the Vila-Flor district (Cazenga)? The conclusion was that solid waste, consisting of different types and sizes such as plastic, bottles, metals, and paper, constitutes the basis of their survival income. The results indicate that they are not poor, but rather needy due to their daily and monthly income. Due to their work, they are called "chiadores" (squawkers) and "longoteiros" (squawkers). There are adolescents living on the streets and on the streets. Some adolescents use the proceeds from sales to buy narcotics (marijuana) and gasoline to inhale; others accompany their guardians to help with work and contribute to the household income; and others engage in this activity without their family's consent. The surveyed population cited a lack of training, job scarcity, and the cost of living as reasons for adopting the practice of solid waste collection.