Rural Housing Re-examined for Resilience Enhancement in Zimbabwe

Abstract

The current approach to rural housing in Zimbabwe requires revaluation to enhance resilience in the face of socio-economic and environmental challenges. The study assesses factors contributing to the vulnerability of rural housing and proposes strategies for resilience enhancement. A central question addressed is how rural housing can be made more resilient to withstand both current and future challenges. The study is anchored on two theories: the Sustainable Development Theory and the Resilience Theory, to provide a comprehensive framework for analysis. The study primarily relies on desk review, drawing from a wide range of literature, including books, policy documents and academic journals. Additionally, case studies are reviewed to provide empirical insights into the practical implications of housing strategies. The major finding of the study reveals that current rural housing practices in Zimbabwe lack adequate consideration for resilience factors, leading to increased vulnerability among rural communities. Consequently, the study concludes that integrating resilience principles into rural housing policies and practices is essential for sustainable development. Based on these findings, the study recommends the adoption of holistic approaches that consider socio-economic, environmental and cultural factors in rural housing development. Furthermore, it advocates for community engagement and capacity-building initiatives to foster resilience at the grassroots level.