African Vernacular Architecture (Technical aspects) | 09 April 2011
Cultural Adaptation and Resilience in Migrant Communities of Southern Africa: An Ethopian Perspective
T, e, s, f, a, y, e, A, b, e, r, a, ,, M, u, l, u, G, e, b, r, u
Abstract
Southern African migrant communities in Ethiopia face unique challenges related to cultural adaptation and resilience due to their diverse ethnic backgrounds and varying socio-economic conditions. A mixed-methods approach involving semi-structured interviews, focus group discussions, and a questionnaire survey were utilised to gather data from 150 participants across different migrant groups in Ethiopia. The findings indicate that there is a significant variation (72%) in the architectural adaptations of housing structures among the migrant communities based on their ethnic origins. Social practices vary by age group, with younger generations showing more integration into local customs (85%). The study reveals that cultural resilience within migrant communities can be fostered through supportive community networks and localized adaptation strategies. Policy makers should prioritise the development of inclusive community centers for social cohesion and support to enhance the cultural resilience of migrant populations in Southern Africa.