Saltpan Workers

The emancipation of saltpan workers from the exploitation of owners has been an important achievement in the SCAD journey.

The socio-economic conditions of this area were desperate. For six months of the year this occupation offers no opportunity for income and if it rains for even one day in season, work is stopped for one month as saltpans are diluted. Children from the age of 7 years were forced to work to pay off their parents’ and even their grandparents’ debts.

The initiation of the SCAD women’s self help groups has made a tremendous change in many of the lives of the people working in the saltpans. The income generation initiatives, saving schemes and internal lending have enabled many to provide for their families. This also means that children can go back to school and get a proper education.

SCAD is providing health services for this community, which are definitely needed, given the dangerous conditions they are working in the saltpans. Awareness training on healthy behaviours and sanitation is slowly helping to improve the conditions of these coastal villages.

<< Follow the links on the left to read more about the other groups SCAD works with