Ngenani: The Zimbabwe Ezekiel Guti Journal of Community Engagement and Societal Transformations
Ngenani, is a double blind-peer reviewed, quarterly and multidisciplinary journal, dedicated to serve the society with high quality research work appropriate for problem solving through knowing and understanding the various communities of the globe. The objective of this journal is to promote innovative research in various disciplines from an ethnographic perspective. We would like to invite authors to contribute a research paper that uphold innovation for problem solving as a re-address to the current societal challenges.
Women For Livelihoods! Challenges faced by Women in Agriculture in Rafingora, Mashonaland West Province, Zimbabwe
Women play crucial roles in agriculture for the welfare of their households and overall development in agro-based economies. They are a critical component as they provide most of the agricultural labour force, care for farming households and work as farm owners independently and jointly with family members. States across the globe have also instituted programmes and initiatives to support women in agriculture. However, women continue to face several challenges in agriculture, usually power-laden. Using a qualitative research approach, through a case study design, this article highlights the challenges women face in agriculture under small-scale farming in Rafingora, Mashonaland West Province. Zimbabwe. In-depth interviews with women and key informants in agriculture were used to obtain data to understand the challenges faced by women in farming. Thematically analysed data indicated family land conflicts, role conflict and the burden of motherhood, illiteracy and lack of information/education, harsh climate change, lack of agricultural equipment, and high transportation costs associated with long distances to depots/suppliers of farming inputs as main challenges affecting women in agriculture. The research concludes that being a female household head in a rural farming area is a challenge on its own, and a human rights issue since it is associated with a multiplicity of challenges.
Copyright (c) 2025 Ngenani: The Zimbabwe Ezekiel Guti Journal of Community Engagement and Societal Transformations
The Interplay among the ‘Small House', African Heritage And Gender Rights for Societal Development
The family is central to development in all societies. However, changes in the family structures, including the emergence of the ‘small house’ (SH), have brought uncertainties on this role. This qualitative case study, embedded in Liberal Feminism and Ubuntu Theories thus sought the views of four of each of marriage officers, probation officers, educators, opinion leaders and members in ‘SH’ relationships about its impact on gender rights and socio-economic development in Zimbabwe through interviews. Participants were selected equitably as argued by gender. Focus Group Discussions were held with 12 university students. Thematic analysis indicates that the SH in its current form is impacting the socio-economic development of Zimbabwe negatively since it is gender blind, does not foster the Ubuntu concept of reverence for the first wife, disregards the rights of females, negatively encroaches into education of children, exposes siblings to possible incest, reduces family unity, promotes jealous among siblings and wives, exposes partners to health problems, leads to estate sharing wrangles and emotional trauma among the partners. The study recommends the classical vision of polygamy to restore trust among partners and for the concerned families to work towards agreed goals. Also, the SH should be discussed openly to encourage society to accept it.
Academic Performance among Girls in Rural Chiredzi District, Zimbabwe: Reasons and Interventions in Addressing Poor Results
Global trends on academic performance show that overall, girls outperform boys at primary and secondary school levels. Some have attributed this to affirmative action policies and practices. Even the Zimbabwe Schools Examinations Council (ZIMSEC) reports show similar trends for over 10 years up to 2023. Surprisingly, the trend was different in Chiredzi rural primary schools, thus compelling the study ingrained in the feminist lens, to establish the reasons for the discrepancy with the view for corrective interventions. Drawing from the documented school-based and public Grade Seven academic results from 2020 to 2023 and the girls’ academic records, a qualitative case study constituting two school heads and four of teachers, girls and schools parent board members equitably selected from two primary schools was instituted for face-to-face interviews. The thematic content analysis shows ethnicity, gendered teacher deployment, negative effects of the donor community involvement in girl child socialisation and maternal parent emigration as the major reasons for the poor academic performance among the girls in Chiredzi. School community based donor activities regulatory framework, community resocialisation on migration and gender rights, streamlining of gender in teacher deployment and site-based evaluation of gender policies and practices, are recommended.
Trends and Dynamics of Urban Informality in the Global South: Urban Women Refugees and Locals in Harare Compared
Arguably, informality has become the new norm in Zimbabwe, similar to most countries in the Global South. The absolute conventional wisdom that adversely defines informality is slowly becoming obsolete and continues to be challenged as the sector has become the crux upon which human security of urbanites is swivelled. Zimbabwe’s constantly expanding informal economy continues to accommodate various demographic groups with a wide range of backgrounds. Consequently, this study is a response to the theoretical lacuna and scant empirical evidence on a comparative assessment of groups’ informal involvement in the Global South. This study investigates and compares the participation of female refugees living in urban regions with their counterparts from the local community in Zimbabwe's informal economy. Based on a qualitative epistemological approach that uses in-depth interviews and documentary analysis as collection methods, the study utilises Harare, namely the downtown areas, as the unit of analysis. The study compares urban women refugees to their local counterparts in four areas: types of activities, the consequences of informality on survival, the challenges that each group faces and their politics of survival. The research concludes with policy directions to advance women’s participation in the informal economy of urban Harare.
Managing the ‘Snatch and Grab’ and Other Crimes in Harare Gardens: The Harare Gardens Crime Elimination Model Founded
Urban recreational spaces, such as the Harare Gardens in Harare, Zimbabwe, were initially conceived as secure environments intended for leisure, relaxation and public enjoyment. However, in recent years, these spaces have become increasingly characterised by heightened levels of criminal activity, particularly opportunistic offences such as "snatch and grab" thefts, attributable to their proximity to high-risk urban zones and the absence of robust security infrastructure. The deterioration of safety within such environments undermines their intended function and presents a pressing challenge for urban governance and planning. While previous research has broadly examined urban crime, there remains a significant gap in scholarly attention to crime dynamics within recreational spaces, especially in the context of sub-Saharan African cities. Moreover, few studies offer context-specific crime prevention frameworks responsive to the unique socio-spatial challenges of these sites. This qualitative study addresses this lacuna by investigating the prevalence, underlying causes and socio-economic impacts of crime in the Harare Gardens and by proposing the Harare Gardens Crime Elimination Model as a tailored intervention. Data were collected through in-depth interviews with key stakeholders, including visitors, vendors and street children, as well as participant observation within the Gardens. A qualitative desk review further supplemented the primary data. Textual analysis was employed to interpret the data, revealing three critical insights. Firstly, street children occupy a dual role as both perpetrators and victims of criminal activities within the Gardens. Secondly, the inadequacy of security infrastructure significantly facilitates the occurrence of crime. Thirdly, broader socio-economic vulnerabilities, such as poverty and marginalisation, serve as persistent drivers of criminal behaviour in the space. The study concludes that effectively addressing crime in the Harare Gardens necessitates a comprehensive and integrated approach, encompassing community participation, enhanced surveillance measures (e.g., CCTV systems) and targeted socio-economic interventions for at-risk groups. The proposed Harare Gardens Crime Elimination Model offers a contextually grounded framework aimed at restoring public trust, enhancing community resilience and re-establishing the Gardens as a safe and inclusive urban recreational space.
Exploring Rural Women’s Livelihood Resilience Strategies: Impacts of the 2023/2024 El Niño-Induced Drought in Zimbabwe: A Case of Mutawatawa in Mashonaland Province, Zimbabwe
The 2023/2024 El Niño-induced drought in Zimbabwe exacerbated food insecurity, water scarcity and economic instability, with rural women disproportionately affected due to their reliance on agriculture and natural resources for survival. Climate change disproportionately impacts rural communities, with women often bearing the brunt of its effects due to their reliance on natural resources and limited access to adaptive and resilient capacities. Disaster events; both of natural origin and human-made, result in a significant number of forced temporary evacuations and permanent internal and international displacement. The study was conducted in Mutawatawa of Mashonaland East Province, one of Zimbabwe's driest regions. This study assesses rural women’s livelihood resilience strategies after the 2023/2024 El Niño--induced drought. This study adopts a qualitative research paradigm and a case study design. Fifteen participants were selected using purposive sampling. Focus group discussions (FDGs), interviews and observations were carried out in the area to gather data on the livelihood resilient strategies adopted by rural women of Mutawatawa. Random sampling and face-to-face interviews were carried out. The research reveals that rural women living in Mutawatawa are vulnerable to food insecurity due to the effects of the 2023/2024 El Niño-induced drought. The local livelihoods show high vulnerability to climate change due to notable low adaptive capacity, affecting women mainly. The high level of vulnerability to changing climate is exposing the study population to increased prevalence of poverty, crop and livestock failure, food insecurity, malnutrition, disease and rural-urban migration, among other impacts.
Exploring Impact of Mining -induced Displacement on Access to HIV&AIDS medications among Primary School Learners in Zimbabwe
This research output, based on a qualitative research methodology, explores the impact of mining-induced displacement on access to HIV&AIDS medications among primary school learners in rural Zimbabwe, highlighting the implications for health equity on educational outcomes. Despite growing discourse on the socioeconomic impacts of mining in Zimbabwe, there is a significant gap in understanding how these displacements specifically affect vulnerable populations, particularly children. The main argument presented in this article is that there is need to explore the impact of Mininginduced Displacement on Access to HIV&AIDS Medications among Primary School Learners in Zimbabwe. The research focuses on a diverse group of 22 participants, selected purposively based on gender, expertise and geographical location. These included two nurses, six learners, four teachers, four parents, two village heads, two representatives from non-governmental organisations (NGOs) and two human rights lawyers. Data was collected through two focus group discussions – one with learners and the other with adults – to facilitate open dialogue. Ethical considerations were prioritised. Data was analysed thematically. Findings reveal that mining-induced displacement severely disrupts the continuity of healthcare services leading to decreased access to HIV&AIDS medications for affected learners, thereby exacerbating health vulnerabilities. It is recommended that policy-makers implement targeted interventions to ensure the provision of uninterrupted healthcare services, particularly in mining-affected communities, to safeguard the health rights of primary learners
Empowering Women with Disabilities through Sustainable Livelihoods in Zimbabwe
This article explores the empowerment of women with disabilities in Zimbabwe through sustainable livelihoods initiatives in both urban and rural settings. The study focuses on Mushagashe (Masvingo), Chiundura, rural areas around Gweru (Midlands) and Ruwa (Harare), examining how women with disabilities navigate intersecting challenges related to gender, disability and socio-economic marginalisation. Using a qualitative research approach, the study employs interviews, focus group discussions and document analysis to investigate the impact of grassroots initiatives and income-generating projects on the socio-economic well-being of women with disabilities. Key areas of analysis include access to vocational training, microfinance and entrepreneurship opportunities and the role of government policies and non-governmental organisations (NGOs) in facilitating or hindering economic inclusion. Findings indicate that while barriers such as limited capital and market access persist, participation in sustainable livelihoods projects has enabled some women to achieve financial independence, enhance their social status and advocate for their rights. The study concludes that targeted, inclusive livelihood programmes integrated within broader frameworks of capacity building and policy support, are essential for achieving meaningful socio-economic empowerment. The article provides recommendations for policy reforms and the scaling up of effective models to maximise sustainable impact.
Challenges Faced by Child Protection Organisations in Combating Girl Child Labour in Zimbabwe
Girl child labour (GCL) remains a significant challenge in Zimbabwe, hindering children's rights and development. This qualitative study investigates the challenges faced by child protection organisations in addressing this issue. Using a constructivist research philosophy and a human rights framework, the study employs a case study design and gathered data through in-depth interviews with 10 key informants. The findings highlight significant obstacles in combating GCL, including insufficient funding, inadequate coordination and limited community involvement. These challenges hinder the ability of child protection organisations to implement comprehensive prevention and response strategies. To address these challenges, the study recommends increased funding and capacity building for child protection organisations. It also stresses the importance of strengthening education access and promoting alternative livelihoods for girls and their families. The study underscores the urgent need for improved strategies to address GCL and its findings reflect the critical role of child protection organisations in reducing this phenomenon. By addressing these challenges, Zimbabwe can enhance child protection and safeguard girls from exploitation, ensuring their right to education, safety and a childhood free from labour.
Addressing Barriers and Creating Opportunities for Women with Disabilities in Gendered Economies: A Case of Masvingo Urban Zimbabwe
Women experience barriers in their day-to-day lives and the presence of a disability compounds the situation. Women with disabilities often face stigma and discrimination, hindering their active participation and recognition in the economic sector. This article aims to explore the challenges faced by women with disabilities in accessing economic opportunities and improving their livelihoods. Obstacles include cultural norms and values about women, limited access to education and lack of training. The qualitative study collected data using in-depth face-to-face interviews with 10 women with disabilities and three administrators from disability organisations in Masvingo who were purposively selected. The study is guided by The Feminist Disability Theory and the Capability Theory. The study found that despite the existence of legislation supporting rights of people with disabilities, gender inequality affects access to education, employment and empowerment for women with disabilities in socio-economic activities remains low. Their livelihoods are affected by the lack of opportunities to engage in meaningful economic activities, though some non-governmental organisations (NGOs) are capacitating women with disabilities. The study recommends addressing education disparities, improving employment and economic opportunities for girls and women with disabilities through vocational training and access to financial resources for establishing own entrepreneurial businesses and strengthening legal frameworks to protect their rights.
A Neglected Crisis: Mental Health and Incarcerated Women in Zimbabwe
This study examines the mental health of women who are incarcerated in Zimbabwe, with a particular emphasis on the particular difficulties they have getting proper mental health care. Assessing these women's present mental health, identifying care-related obstacles and investigating potential improvement strategies are its primary goals. The study uses a qualitative methodology with nine participants, including correctional officers and women in prison and is guided by the Intersectionality Theory and the Feminist theory. The participants' identities are protected by pseudonyms. Following a thematic analysis of the data, it became evident that stigma, trauma and limits access to care frequently make the high prevalence of mental health disorders worse. The study concludes that meeting mental health needs requires improving mental health services, putting trauma-informed care practices into practice and encouraging community engagement programmes.
Editorial Note : Ngenani Special Issue,2025
On 21 November 2024, at the Zimbabwe Ezekiel Guti University (ZEGU) Harare Campus and also virtually, the Faculty of Heritage, Humanities and Societal Advancement (FHHSA) spearheaded a conference under the theme, ‗Positioning Gender and Human Rights Ethos into a Heritage Centred Economy.’ The conference brought together experts, policy makers and practitioners from various fields to discuss innovative strategies for integrating gender and human rights into heritage conservation. Through panels, breakaway workshops, and keynote speeches, participants examined the challenges opportunities associated with this integration. The goal was to develop actionable recommendations that can guide future heritage practices and policies, ensuring they are inclusive, equitable and reflective of the diverse cultural landscapes they aim to preserve. The four subthemes included: the endogenous heritage-based economy, rights-based development, gendered economies and gender and sustainability. The articles in this Special Issue speak to these themes.
Widows, Widowhood and Sustainable Land Use in the Post Land Reform Era in In Zimbabwe: Case for the Mushandike Smallholder Irrigation Scheme Exceptionalism
There is overwhelming evidence of the poverty-widow nexus in agrarian settings, with widows wearing, as it were, the ‘face of poverty’. This study critically examines the sustainable land use through a gaze at widows’ lived experiences and realities within the context of land reform in an irrigation scheme whose ‘exceptional circumstances’ remains a notable socio-economic outcome of the Zimbabwean land reform. Deploying the narrative inquiry as the anchor of data generation within the broad qualitative research design, guided by the eco-feminist lens, the study brings to the fore the cultural, political and economic circumstances in which women navigated their spaces and eventually broke out of the ‘vicious circle of poverty’. The exceptional circumstances of widow farmers represent the treacherous but sustainable journey by those in the margins as they pursue sustainable food security and change. The study argues that sustainable transformation linked to women’s experience of working on small piece of land was through support from adult ‘children’ through remittances, support from feminist civic organisation and the enabling political environment. As an outcome, widows in Mushandike Resettlement Scheme, become key agricultural producers who sustainably supply both local and urban markets with their products and build modern houses with electricity, water and sewage reticulation systems.
Unleashing the Potential of Community Participation in Wildlife Management in the Drive of Empowering Conservation: A Case Study of Victoria Falls Private Game Reserve, Zimbabwe
This study critically explores the role of community participation in enhancing sustainable wildlife management at Victoria Falls Private Game Reserve. The research was prompted by increasing conservation challenges within the game reserve, including, but not limited to: poaching, habitat degradation, human-wildlife conflicts and a threatened tourism business (Dube, 2019; Matseketsa et al., 2019; Ntuli et al., 2019). The study employed a mixed methods approach underpinned by a pragmatic research philosophy. A cross-sectional descriptive survey research design was utilised. The target population consisted of 600 subjects, including game reserve staff, community members and officials from government and non-governmental wildlife management authorities in Zimbabwe. Data were collected through questionnaires (n=60) and key informant interviews (n=6). Quantitative data were analysed using the Statistical Package for Social Sciences (SPSS) version 23.0, while qualitative data were analysed using thematic analysis. Research results reveal that community participation initiatives have a positive and significant influence on wildlife conservation at Victoria Falls Private Game Reserve. The study also identified challenges hindering effective community participation in wildlife management, including lack of access to information and limited financial incentives. Strategies proposed to enhance community participation in wildlife conservation include community engagement and incentivizing conservation efforts. Therefore, the study recommends that game reserves ensure local communities have representation on committees related to wildlife management. This would provide them with a platform to voice their concerns and actively participate in wildlife conservation and management.
Reflecting On Non-Governmental Organisations’ Action in Addressing Rural Food Security in Mbire District, the Zambezi Valley, Zimbabwe
Food insecurity has plagued many people throughout the world especially in drought- prone zones. Humanity relies on agriculture production for food security; however, many factors lead to the downgrading food security especially in rural areas. This study provides an analysis through in-depth engagement with empirical evidence and expose the multi-dimensions of food insecurity in Mbire District where the Lower Guruve Development Association and World Vision International embark on rural food security programming and projects in that part of the Zambezi valley. Mbire District is endowed with conditions that are conducive for food insecurity inclusive of climate change, floods, excessive heat, little rainfall and wandering wild that destructs crops. Guided by the theory of climate change diplomacy and the qualitative research approach, the study answered four research questions that are: What were the support services provided by World Vision and Lower Guruve Development Association to buttress rural food security? What were the impacts of nongovernmental organisations in Mbire District on rural food security? What were the challenges faced by NGOs in trying to support rural food security? What were the strategies used to reduce rural food security in Mbire? The study recommends measures that can be put in place to reduce incidents brought about by climate change, floods, heat, violent storms and serious winds. The study also recommends the continuation of support on rural food security from other local NGOs, the government and the international at large.
Policing the Scourge of Child Sexual Abuse in Hatcliffe Community, Harare, Zimbabwe: A Pragmatic Approach
The main aim of this study was to investigate the effectiveness of crime awareness campaigns in curbing child sexual abuse. Hatcliffe Community in Harare, Zimbabwe, was the focus of the study. The research's objectives were, inter alia: to determine various forms of child sexual abuse, to determine factors leading to child sexual abuse, to establish the challenges faced by ZRP Borrowdale in curbing child sexual abuse and to proffer strategies that could be adopted to curb child sexual abuse cases in Hatcliffe Community. The study utilised a pragmatic approach to research, applying both qualitative and quantitative methodologies. Questionnaires and interview guides were used to collect quantitative and qualitative data which was then presented in the form of graphs, tables and charts created with the Statistical Package for the Social Sciences (SPSS). Data were gathered from police officers at ZRP Borrowdale. The study findings show that crime awareness campaigns can effectively reduce child sexual abuse cases. It is recommended that the Zimbabwe Republic Police should formulate a comprehensive partnership with other stakeholders like religious organisations, children’s rights protection advocacy groups, schools and the mass media to raise an equally comprehensive public awareness campaign programmes against child sexual abuse.
Lessons from Cyclone Idai for Effective Disaster Management in Chimanimani, Zimbabwe
This study proffers some practical and research-based recommendations to the identified disaster management bottlenecks and lays out solutions to enhance future community disaster management and resilience strategies. The research followed an exploratory sequential design, targeting various key stakeholders who took part in the Cyclone Idai disaster management. A sample size of 57 respondents was selected using purposive and cluster sampling methods. Data were collected through questionnaires and interviews. Quantitative data were analysed using the StatisticalPackage for Social Sciences (SPSS) version 23.0, whereas qualitative data were analysed using the thematic content analysis. Findings indicated that incompetent governance and administrative systems, lack of coordination and weak enforcement contributed to vulnerability. Furthermore, the study revealed that gender insensitivity marginalised women in decision-making, inadequate training and limited access to early warnings, among others, had all compromised preparedness and disaster management of the Cyclone Idai in Chimanimani District. Therefore, recommendations proffered include: strengthening governance, addressing poverty and inequalities, integrating gendersensitive approaches, enhancing training of community members and local authorities, improving communication and early warning systems and establishing well-equipped safety centres.
Land-Use Planning and Social Ecology in the 21st Century
This article critically examines the intractable nexus between land use and social ecology in the 21st Century in a bid to strengthen sustainable development. This emanates from the view that human use of land has been changing Earth’s ecology for ages. Although land use has always sustained human civilisations, its ecological penalties cause global climate change. Methods engaged in collecting data for this review include secondary data analysis of relevant literature that answered the research topic. Results highlight that by converting Earth’s ecology, land use has factually paved the way for the Anthropocene. Now, a better future relies on land use approaches that can efficiently sustain people together with the rest of terrestrial environment on Earth’s limited land. Review concludes that it is, therefore, clear that realising food security and refining the quality of life, while conserving the environment, will continue to pose challenges to scientists, decision-makers and technicians in the years to come. It is well agreed that the wise use of land resources will play a role of supreme importance in the provision of food for future generations. Recommendations are, sensible Land-use Planning is a central tool to find an equilibrium among these different demands and guarantee agricultural production, while safeguarding the natural environs.
Numerating the Impacts of Climate Change and Degradation Environmental In Vulnerable Communities and Their Resilience in Zimbabwe
This article critically discusses the adverse impact(s) of climate change and environmental degradation in vulnerable communities and their attendant resilience strategies in Zimbabwe. Communities that occupy peripheral or environmentally degraded areas frequently struggle daily to survive and are not capable to deal with any other stress factors. The research method utilised in this study was secondary data analysis to gather literature and analyse findings to answer the research topic. Results highlight that, climate change and environmental degradation are partly to blame for the vulnerable groups’ persistent poverty and hunger as they depend heavily on subsistence economies and natural resources for their survival. This, in turn, has hindered their ability to build resilient communities as their stresses are interlinked. The study concludes that Zimbabwe’s ability to reduce and adapt to climate change must be reinforced. Refining our understanding of how environmental vulnerability is connected to vulnerable communities and their resilience is novel and crucial in mapping strategies for developing and engendering resilience. It is important for governments to support communities to diversify livelihood and fall-back alternatives.
Determining The Surface Water Quality Changes Induced By Underground Mining In Gwanda District Of Matebeleland South, Zimbabwe.
The study engaged in an assessment of the implications of underground mining activities on the quality of surface water and its effects in Mtshabezi community Gwanda District of Matebeleland, South of Zimbabwe. The research adopted a mixed method approach that utilised both qualitative and quantitative approaches for in depth fact finding. The qualitative approach used depended on open ended questions, structured interviews, direct field observations while the quantitative approach used depended on closed ended questions, laboratory testing of water samples and use of statistical tools such as SPSS version 22.0 for data analysis. Water samples were collected to test for physiochemical parameters (temperature, pH, cyanide and concentration of Zn, Ni, Fe and Cu). The research identified the main pollutants in Mtshabezi River were caused by mining processes at Blanket mine and the main river contaminants were effluent deposited during and after gold processing is done through oxidation. It was observed that tailing dams are also a source of contaminating surface water because they contain effluents with un-extracted cyanide, mercury, sulphide, copper and iron among other chemicals that are used during blasting, gold extraction and processing. Results from the tests conducted show that nitrates ranged from 3.5 and 8.4 that is within the range of WHO guideline of 10mg/l. Iron concentration ranged from 0.2 to 7.3mg/l in all selected sites and this impacted on the lives of the people, their livelihoods, livestock and welfare. The study recommends regular monitoring of surface water sources undertaken by EMA and sub-catchment councils to ensure the quality of water is not compromised.
Artisanal Mining and Its Socio Economic Implications in the Rural Development Agenda: Evidence from Uzumba - Marambapfungwe, Mashonaland Central Province, Zimbabwe
This research focuses on the impact of artisanal mining on the socioeconomic development of the selected wards from Uzumba Marambapfungwe (UMP) in Mashonaland East Province. The study unpacks intricate issues around artisanal mining in Zimbabwe by focusing on a rural community in Mashonaland Central Province where it is rife. Thus, the study ascertains the extent to which the local communities benefit or lose when artisanal or small-scale mining is pursued in a community. The study adopted a mixed research methodology to gather data that was anchored on interviewing key informants,ordinary research participants and researcher observations. It purposefully and randomly sampled a population that included twenty artisanal miners, ten community members and five key informants. The study establishes that artisanal mining delivers more economic benefits than expenses to the rural poor despite its uncontrolled environmental degradation. Notwithstanding the economic benefits accumulated by the rural poor from artisanal mining actions in UMP through employment creation and income generation, there is loss of revenue to central government since the activities are uncontrolled and untaxed. Thus, the study argues that despite its reputation as a source of employment in the face of high unemployment levels in the formal sector, the economic hazards associated with lose of tax revenue to central government, the chaotic and illegal nature of the activities and the environmental pillage is too high.
An Evaluation of Training and Development Strategies on the Performance of the Manufacturing Small-To-Medium Enterprises in Mashonaland West Zimbabwe
Small and Medium Enterprises (SMEs) within the Zimbabwean manufacturing sector play a pivotal role in the nation's economic growth. This study critically investigates the role of training and development programmes to enhance the performance of manufacturing SMEs in Mashonaland West Province. The study was underpinned by pragmatism research philosophy. Structured questionnaires and structured interview guides were used to collect quantitative and qualitative data from 80 respondents. Quantitative data were analysed using descriptive statistics and correlations while qualitative data were analysed using NVivo. The main study findings establish that there is a positive relationship between training and development and performance of manufacturing SMEs. Study findings show that in the rapidly evolving business landscape, maintaining a competitive edge requires continuous investment in upskilling and reskilling the workforce. The study establishes that in the manufacturing sector, where innovation is a key driver of success, training and development can foster a culture of continuous improvement and adaptability. This can lead to the development of new products, processes, or business models, ultimately enhancing the competitiveness of the organisation. The study revealed that investing in training and development demonstrates an organisation's commitment to its employee that can positively impact employee engagement, morale and retention. Well-trained and empowered employees are more likely to feel valued, contributing to higher job satisfaction and reduced turnover rates. Retaining skilled and experienced personnel is crucial for maintaining institutional knowledge and driving continuous improvements within manufacturing SMEs. The recommendations proffered by the study are that manufacturing SMEs should adopt a strategic, data-driven approach. This includes assessing skill gaps, aligning training objectives with business goals and continuously evaluating the impact of training initiatives on key performance indicators. By investing in the training and development of their workforce, manufacturing SMEs can enhance productivity, foster innovation, improve employee engagement and ultimately strengthen their overall competitiveness in the market.
An Ethical Expose for Economic Development Zimbabwe: Case in Entrepreneurial Skills by Crossborder Traders, 2005-2015.
The economic and political ambivalences that affected Zimbabwe between 2005 and 2015 saw the extrinsic development of immoral informal cross-border entrepreneurship in the troubled citizens as they endeavoured to eke a survival. This research investigates the tribulations that created the flaws that militated against the trade during this period of economic-politico crises. The research used the triangulation methodologies to tap into the informants’ data sets. Thus interviews, questionnaires and participation observation were basically employed to gather the data for this study. The study appropriates analytic interpretivism, analytic philosophy within an enculturation hermeneutical framework with a view to fully comprehend the phenomena in question. The study establishes that the moral repugnant strategies employed to outwit the challenges were politically generated. It, therefore, argues for a fusion of ethics into informal cross-border trade for sustainability in Zimbabwe’s developmental strategies.
A Re-Think of Climate Resilience an SDG Issue for Sustainability in the Global South
The adverse impacts of climate change are not only entirely an environmental or economic issue; they also impact the substantive enjoyment of fundamental human rights. Population groups in vulnerable positions are among the disproportionately affected by climate change. The populations extremely affected often do not contribute in decision-making processes on actions that address climate change. This research utilises a qualitative method, case study approach that highlight sustainability issues relating to climate resilience in the Global South. Secondary data analysis was the data gathering tool through reviewing existing literature on climate resilience issues and SDGs. The research concludes and recommends that, policies must pave way towards attaining the kind of transformations necessary to build inclusive and climate-resilient communities. Disaster risk reduction and disaster management are evidently playing an important role in reinforcing the preparedness and early warning capacities required to confront and mitigate climate hazards. Social protection policies are essential to protect lower-income groups against the threats of climate hazards. Adaptation policies, such as those requiring the adoption of new crops or enhanced irrigation systems, are critical to preventing a worsening of livelihoods as a consequence of climate hazards. To be successful, these policy responses must be part of a comprehensive development framework that leads the way to the empowerment of underprivileged groups.
A Critical Review of Mens Experiences of Sexual Assaults Their Perceptions towards Perpetrators and Coping Strategies
The article critically reviews empirical findings and assesses the state of the literature canon on sexual assaults on men, their perceptions towards the perpetrators and coping strategies. The study is premised against the background of male sexual abuse. These male victims need psychological help to help them move on. Based on these conclusions, the study recommends that organisations that deal with male sexual violence must work together to raise awareness campaigns on the different types of sexual assaults that are currently happening among men. These organisations must also educate men to report their offenders to police and other institutions within the criminal justice system in time. Organisations that help male survivors must be reinforced with qualified psychotherapists to ensure male survivors are assisted and these male survivors must be educated on the different recommended methods that can be used to deal with trauma that is associated with sexual assault.
Philosophical Reflections On The Environment And The Impact Of African Indigenous Religion On Food Security Among The Ndau People Of Southeast Zimbabwe
This article focuses on the role of the African indigenous religion(s) (AIRs) in compacting environmental degradation and affirming the stability of food security among the Ndau people of Chipinge,south-east Zimbabwe. The study interrogates religious taboos, considering the divine punishment embedded in the essence of the AIR in the protection and preservation of the environment. Drawing examples from Chief Mapungwana‟s and Chief Musikavanhu‟s structural organisation in public rituals and mushandirapamwe (working together projects) and doro remakoto (rain-making ceremony) in the Ndau society, the study shows that the religion fosters mutuality, reciprocity, togetherness and positive attitudes towards the environment. Premising the entire argument on the foregoing insights, the study envisages that the tripartite cosmology of the Africans immensely contributes to the conservation of the ecosystem. The study focuses on the perpetual divine food provision through reliable rains, good harvests and ubiquitous existence of both domestic and wild fruits in the vicinity and thereby ensuring food security to the Ndau people. In cognisance of the food abundance, the AIR, through some divine restrictions, ensures equal sharing and shuns the notion of mbau (greed). The study recommends that the recent interface between AIRs and Christianity should not disturb the Ndau people‟s cosmological stability.
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Reflection on the During and Post -COVID-19 Experiences, Response Strategies The Case of Informal Traders in Masvingo URBAN
The research evaluated the Zimbabwe‘s City of Masvingo‘s response to the impacts of COVID-19 on informal traders . The research shows the resilience strategies which have been adopted by the informally employed and the sustainability of the strategies therein. A sample of 94 informal traders were selected to participate in this research. Key informant interviews, questionnaires and observations were used in data collection as they support the mixed approach. Key findings reveal that appreciation of the Sendai Framework by the City of Masvingo that agitates for resilience and protection of livelihoods and productive assets throughout the supply chains, ensure continuity of services and integrate disaster risk management into business models and practices. Most strategies employed by the planning authority to counter contingencies were skewed towards the physical response such as renovations and demolitions of marketplaces, water and sanitation rehabilitation and the hierarchy of controls, whist the socio-economic dimension has been kept at bay. The research recognises that social and physical distancing are essential response mechanisms to the COVID-19 pandemic. However, there is need to for integrative planning that takes human factor into consideration by guaranteeing safety nets.
Slum Dwellers Survival Strategies Of Magamba In Hatcliffe Extension, Harare
Housing for low-income people has been a big issue in many countries and Zimbabwe is not an exception. This challenge has been a major contributor to Zimbabwe‟s expanding slum population, with thousands of people living in slum areas. This study draws on the experiences of Magamba in Hatcliffe Extension, Harare, to understand the origins, demographics and survival strategies of slum dwellers. A quantitative research approach was employed. Household surveys were conducted as part of the data collection process in that semi-structured questionnaires were used. Observations using photographic or pictorial aids were done. The study suggests that impressions of poverty in Magamba correspond to a lack of access to fundamental requirements such as adequate shelter, water, sanitation, security of tenure, jobs and foodstuffs. The community's coping strategies emphasize that, despite the problems they face, residents are strong and have skills that they use to improve their livelihoods. In addition to creating a multi-stakeholder platform for resolving the housing delivery challenges, the study suggests slum transformation and political will where politics is not above institutions. These could be solutions to the rising number of slums that are developing and growing in the country.
The Efficacy Of Counselling Programmes In Reducing Work-Related Stress Among Police Officers A Case Study Of Zrp Waterfalls
The article is based on a study that sought to make an investigation into the efficacy of counselling in reducing occupational stress among police officers. The research was inspired by the continued trend of poor performance, depression, anxiety and mood swings by police officers at the Zimbabwe Republic Police (ZRP) Waterfalls. The research‟s objectives were to investigate the sources of stress among members of the police service, to determine the effects of stress on police officers and the efficacy of counselling on stress. A sample size of 60 police officers was used which was determined using the Yamane 1967 approach. Stratified random sampling was used for quantitative data and convenience sampling for qualitative data. The study also sought to proffer ways in which work-related stress can be reduced. The study adopted a pragmatism research philosophy and incorporated both quantitative and qualitative research designs that ensured triangulation. The study employed a questionnaire and interview guide as instruments to gather empirical data, presented in the form of tables and charts produced using the Statistical Package for the Social Sciences (SPSS). Qualitative data was presented thematically and saturation was used to determine sample size. Data was collected from police officers stationed at ZRP Waterfalls.
Voices Of School Development Committee Members On School Governance And Digitalisation Of Education In Zimbabwe
The outbreak of COVID-19 in 2019 and the subsequent travel restrictions instituted by the World Health Organisation to curtail the spread of the virus saw the disruption of educational activities and the management thereof, affecting the role of the School Development Committees (SDCs). The number of SDC meetings to approve procurement and purchase of educational materials was decimated, henceforth school heads made sole decisions in contrast to the requirements of fiscal policies. This qualitative case study investigates how the work of SDCs in eight Zimbabwean schools is affected during COVID-19 and the transition to the fourth industrial revolution (4IR), and then establishes tenable alternatives to the conditions. To gather information, document analysis and semi-structured interviews were used. Schools are far from embracing the 4IR despite that SDCs must conduct all school governance online, just like any other business. The study suggests that educational institutions should spend money on developing digital infrastructures and educating SDC members on digital capabilities. This study adds conversation to scholarship on the use of the Internet of Things {IoT) in school governance.