Table 3 Routine expenses
Category | Example |
|---|---|
Basic needs | “First thing I do with money is […] I go buy meat which is high [expensive]. I then take the rest of the remaining money to go buy what I need most which is fish oil, rice and vegetables or something, but the food money is very little […] there are still policies, school stuff” (Betty, 33, Female). |
Savings and investments | “We are [part of a] ‘stokvel’ [savings scheme]. We contribute a lot per month and there’s ten of us. I meet the target through business income. You see today is the 3rd [of February] tomorrow I’m contributing, and I already have it” (Khumbula, 29, Female). |
Recreational activities | “I would spend money on food but I’m drinking [alcohol] also. You must understand that, and these past few days I’m drinking a lot. I’m stressed. My life alone is a disaster. I have no money and I’m stuck with a shitty job” (Nontombi, 43, Female). |
HIV care-related expenses | “With the little money left I would […] every day, I must buy and use pain tablets which are very expensive. I must specifically go and buy at least four to five packets of pain tablets for ARV side effects” (Lawrence, 51, Male). |