Resilience of Somali Migrants: Religion and Spirituality among Migrants in Johannesburg

Various studies have already been done on the mistreatment of migrants and the psychological effects thereof. This study sought to explore the resilience of Somali migrants residing in Fordsburg/ Mayfair, Johannesburg by interrogating how religion and spirituality may have assisted them in coping with their challenges. A qualitative study was undertaken, using purposive sample of ten Somali migrants. In addition, face to face in –depth interviews were undertaken with participants between the ages of 20 and 55 years. The findings of the study indicated that by supporting the resilience of the Somali migrants, religion and spirituality had played a major role. The interesting part is that their culture and religion becomes integral to their migration. In this regard the community has devised relational, cultural, and religious resources that help them navigate their challenges of migrations. Scholars of migration have, in recent decades, developed increasing interest in the processes and practices through which migrants maintain social relationships that connect the places they leave behind and those where they arrive. Religious affiliations and relationships strengthen these relations. This article argues that resilience can be attributed to their religion, spirituality and cultural identity of the Somali community living in South Africa. The article concludes that high levels of resilience can be linked to the improved socio–economic status of Somali migrants in South Africa