Percurso de vida e dinâmicas na construção identitária profissional e social dos catadores de lixo ˸ caso Lixeira de Hulene- Maputo

Abstract

This work arises in the context of the culmination of the Bachelor's degree in Anthropology from Eduardo Mondlane University – U.E.M. The theme is: Life Trajectory and Dynamics in the Professional and Social Identity Construction of Waste Pickers: Case Study of the Hulene Landfill - Maputo. The study was based on the general objective: To understand the life trajectory and dynamics in the professional and social identity construction of waste pickers. To achieve this objective, two (2) specific objectives were developed: 1. To identify the factors that contribute to the marginalization of waste pickers from the Hulene Landfill and 2. To analyze the life trajectory in the identity construction of waste pickers from the Hulene Landfill.From an anthropological perspective, we understand that picking through trash is not just an economic activity: it is also a process of identity creation, of coexistence with other workers, and of fighting against prejudice.We also understand that the garbage dump is a place where friendships, support networks, and bonds of solidarity are created. The rules, forms of organization, and hierarchies that emerge within the group show that, even in an environment of great vulnerability, cooperation and an intense social life exist. The professional and social identity of the waste pickers at the Hulene landfill is constructed from several factors: their personal trajectories, the work they do daily, community life, and the prejudice they face. Within the landfill, they create ways of living, working, helping each other, and giving meaning to their experiences. Anthropology, in studying these processes, shows that even in environments considered "marginal," there are important social relations, knowledge, survival strategies, and ways of constructing identity. Thus, the study of the Hulene waste pickers reveals not only the difficulties they face, but also their capacity for resistance, organization, and meaning-making within a context marked by profound inequalities. The research question of this work was satisfied since the professional and social identity construction of the Hulene waste pickers is based simultaneously on marginalization and resistance. A notable difficulty in conducting this research was the time factor, as an unfavorable situation due to family and work issues was noted from the outset, but in the end, progress was made. Considering the current social situation, further study of related topics is recommended, as it is an urgent and emerging need.