The Review of Rural Resilience Praxis is a double blind-peer reviewed, multidisciplinary journal, dedicated to serve as a forum for discussions of ideas, strategies and panaceas for and by humanity, in the establishment and strengthening of rural people’s copying ability in face of the inherent economic, ecological and cultural vulnerability. The journal provides the society with high quality research work appropriate for problem solving. The journal is produced bi-annually. The objective of this journal is to promote innovative research from a multidisciplinary locus. We would like to invite authors to contribute a research paper that uphold innovation for problem solving as a re-address to the current and beyond societal challenges
“Water Provision Will Trigger Us into Action and Livelihood Vibrancy and Skyrocketing”: Deciphering Messages from Biriri Wards, Chimanimani
Water remains the source of all human activities and its availability in arid and semi-arid regions has been erratic with most rural communities of Zimbabwe affected the unavailability. The article explores how the dwindling of water resources can push communities into water conservation practices and how the availing of water provision projects has pushed rural communities into action. Climate change has pushed the groundwater further and caused low rainfall, leaving rural communities that depend on rain-fed agriculture and borehole irrigation short of water. The article is based on the argument that groundwater and rainfall patterns with periodic droughts and extreme weather events. The study engaged a qualitative research methodology with a case study research design. The study used purposive sampling to sample for the participants. The study used in-depth interviews and focus group discussions. It adhered to all ethical principles. The study revealed that the availability of water will trigger communities into livelihoods diversification and changing of rural communities‟ lifestyles. The study found that rural communities have begun to diversify their livelihoods and taking advantage of the water provision projects. The study concludes that the increase of water provision can be the missing link for rural development. The study recommends diversification of water provision
Copyright (c) 2025 The Review of Rural Resilience Praxis
Ancestry versus Presidency: Unpacking Rural Land Ownership in Zimbabwe
For more than 90 years, British settlers ruled Rhodesia, now Zimbabwe. Whilst studies have been conducted to assess and document the history of rural land ownership in Zimbabwe, little has been done to assess the effectiveness in procedure and constitutionality of land reform programmes. This article explores land ownership in Zimbabwe and its relation to state control and the implications of the law. It argues that the quest for land ownership in Zimbabwe created a hostile environment that prompted a review of laws and policies by Africans towards a fair land distribution programme. This is because land in Zimbabwe has been a subject of immense politicisation. In a bid to create a balance of landownership, the government introduced a strict land reform programme that sought to uphold and promote land ownership among ordinary citizens. Land ownership in Zimbabwe became a central issue for discussion during the Lancaster House Talks to end white dominance of precious land. This was worsened further by the Fast Track Land Reform Programme (FTLRP) in 2000 which changed the shape and look of land ownership. The historical 2000 FTLRP further weakened and paralysed an already deteriorating relationship between the government and white settlers who had remained in Zimbabwe after independence. The article then seeks to unravel the consequences of land reforms in Zimbabwe that caused recorded most violent moments of all time. Further, it shows that the effectiveness of the government scheme for expropriation of land without compensation was later adopted, strengthened and further consolidated in Zimbabwe‟s Constitution, which then becomes a human rights question. Accordingly, the article affirms that the laws of Zimbabwe simply put communal land in the hands of the presidency, something that has drawn wide attention as to the power vested in the presidency towards land ownership.
Perceptions of Villagers on Traditional Food Crops Production in Response to Climate Change in Bocha Village, Manicaland Province, Zimbabwe
Based on the qualitative approach, this research highlights an assessment of the perceptions of villagers on traditional food crop production in response to climate change. The study was inspired by the need to unearth views on traditional food crop production, how they are produced in the wake of climate change and the mitigation measures they employ to ensure food security and poverty reduction. The study was undertaken in Bocha Village in the Manicaland Province of Zimbabwe. The Indigenous Knowledge (IK) theoretical framework used hypothesised ways of knowing, seeing and thinking, passed down orally from generation to generation and that reflect thousands of years o experimentation and innovation in all aspects of life. A sample of 10 was drawn using purposive sampling. Data was gathered using semi structured interviews and focus group discussions with participants. Findings were thematically presented. The study revealed that villagers view traditional food crops as food security commodities with drought tolerant and climate mitigation potential produced using indigenous knowledge systems. They also reduce poverty through commercial and nutritional benefits derived from their processing.
Climate Change News Is Awash Everywhere, The Phenomenon Is Hitting Hard‟: Dialoguing with Rural Communities of Selected Districts in Zimbabwe
The article explores how the availability of climate change news inZimbabwe is pushing the rural communities‟ understanding of threatsposed by climate change on rural livelihoods and ways of life. Climatechange has become a global threat to the rural livelihoods with theerosion of livelihoods leading to rural-urban exodus that is draining ruralbrains. This article is based on the argument that the mainstreaming ofclimate change news increases the awareness of rural people and aidstheir adaptation and resilience strategies. The study used a qualitativemethodology with a bias towards an exploratory research design. Thestudy used focus group discussions and in-depth interviews to gatherdata. The study used purposive sampling and adhered to all ethicalprinciples. It found that climate change is hitting communal areas hardbut rural communities have been benefiting from government and privatemedia of information dissemination of news. The rural communities havebeen building resilience and adaptation to the vagaries of climate change.The study concludes that climate change remains a global threat to foodsecurity and rural development and more focus on climate news targetingrural communities must be introduced to fast-track rural developmentand resilience building. The study recommends the introduction ofcommunity radios and media outlets.
The Impact of the Russia-Ukraine Conflict on Farmer Input Supply in Small-scale Maize Production in Mashonaland East Province Zimbabwe
The conflict between Russia and Ukraine created economic impacts felt across the whole world and has high potential to derail the economic outlook for Zimbabwe among many other countries that heavily depend on imports. Starting in early 2022, fertiliser prices rose almost 30% due to the Russian invasion of Ukraine. In this study, the effect of the Russia Ukraine conflict on the cost of maize inputs, maize productivity and profitability of maize production was evaluated in Chikomba District, located within Mashonaland East Province for the 2021-2022 and 2022-2023 maize growing seasons. Simple random sampling was used to obtain a sample size of 385 participants derived from the conversion of a standard deviation of 0.5 at a 95% confidence level into a z-score. Questionnaires were used to obtain primary data from the participants. Benefit cost ratio (BCR) and gross margin budget analysis were used to evaluate the profitability of maize production. Out of the five explanatory variables that had a significant impact on maize productivity, AN use had the most significant effect in both seasons, 2021/22 and 2022/23, with (B=0.575, p=0.025) and (B=0544, p=0.025), respectively. Given that the Russia-Ukraine conflict period was characterised by exorbitant AN price increases that reduced affordability by many smallholder farmers across Zimbabwe, it therefore, means that the conflict has had a negative impact on maize productivity by farmers. This is due to the use of a lower fertiliser rate in response to the 57% and 71%price hike in basal and top-dressing fertiliser, respectively, lowering the yield/productivity of maize, meaning that there will be less maize to sell for covering costs and making a profit. The reduction in input levels lowered both the cost of production and the potential yield that could be produced for the market. There is need for further study aimed at developing solutions that enhance the farmers‟ resilience to the effects of conflict on input prices, productivity and profitability of maize production
Project Resilience: relevant or a far-fetched concept in the context of Zimbabwe's Rural Projects by NGOs?
Project resilience ensures the continued existence and relevance ofprojects. It is a product of a variety of factors, thus a complexphenomenon that requires a systems approach to analysis. Little researchexists on project resilience. For on-governmental organisations (NGOs) toremain relevant and essential, there is need for analysis of their projectsusing project resilience concepts. This article discusses the factors thataffect project resilience in rural projects involving NGOs using a systemsapproach. It then suggests the Panarchy Model be used to do a projectresilience analysis using three eco-cycles. After carrying out a narrativeliterature review. 35 articles were included in this study. A three-layeredeco-cycle in the model is suggested with individual resilience at thebottom layer, community resilience in the middle layer and projectresilience at the topmost layer. These layers have various players thatinteract in a cyclic manner. It was found that collaboration, knowledgegeneration, understanding the context and monitoring and evaluation areamong key issues that ensure project resilience. It is recommended thaNGOs partake in bottom-up collaboration with communities to informtheir projects. Researchers are recommended to also do empirical studiesto test the three-layered eco-cycle suggested for its relevance in practice.
Social Networks and the Human Factor Perspective on Rural Development in Chimanimani District, Zimbabwe
Uplifting human factor principles is a sine qua non for rural development. However, severe human factor decay has become a reality in remote rural districts of Zimbabwe. Failure to network seems to be a paradox that needs to be unlocked. Networks are based on good relationships. Relations impact on science and any livelihood programs. Networks are the bedrock for trust. Trust is a resilience builder for that sustainability. Limited networks and the general low human factor as evidenced my mistrust, poor service delivery, corruption poor communication, have led to stagnation or even regression of the development gains brought by political independence. The conclusions of this article are drawn from a study done in the Chimanimani Rural District of Zimbabwe. Whilst councils are the nerve centers for rural development, their members are continuously failing to make the most of the ongoing networking platforms at their disposal. Respondents were chosen conveniently and judgmentally. This study revealed very poor networking among community members and organizations operating in the district. The conclusions of this article arrived at reminding to “going back-for-it” (sankofaism), thereby integrating globalised philosophies with African indigenous knowledge on leadership. Indeed, Chimanimani District has the capacity for growth and sustenance of the same.
Smallholder Maize Production, Input Investment, Productivity and Profitability in Ward 1, Chikomba District, Zimbabwe
Most of smallholders in Zimbabwe under the leasehold tenure system are beneficiaries of the Fast-Track Land Reform Programme (FTLRP) of 2000. It is generally argued that the leasehold tenure system has unprecedented impact on agricultural production as farmers fail to secure bank loans using leased land as collateral security. This article is premised on a study whose main objective was to determine the impact of leasehold land tenure system on productivity sby mallholder maize farmers. The study was carried out in Ward 1 of Chikomba District in Mashonaland East Province. Descriptive research design and primary data gathered from the randomly selected 87 farmers out of the 673 farmers, using a structured questionnaire, were used for this study. The data gathered was comprehensively analysed using both correlation analysis and regression analysis to achieve the study objectives. The results revealed that the leasehold tenure system limits farmers‟ access to credit, meaning, therefore, that the leasehold tenure has a negative impact on input investment, maize production and profitability by the smallholder farmers in Chikomba District. The study concludes that the leasehold tenure system has a negative impact on input investment, production of smallholder maize farmers as it discouraged farmers‟ access to credit, a key factor that determines farmers‟ input investment and production. The study recommends the Government of Zimbabwe to change the tenure system on smallholder farmers to a more favourable system to improve smallholder farmer input investment, productivity and profitability.
Wetlands Governance in Rural Land Use Planning and Management: A Strategic Approach for Zimbabwe
Due to their nature, wetlands are regarded as one of the most productive ecosystems offering a wide variety of ecosystem services. In rural setups, wetlands are most recognised for supporting agriculture and providing water to local communities. Despite their significance to rural populations, wetlands degradation remains a challenge due to less sustainable land use planning and management. The article explores the potential of wetlands governance as a strategic approach in rural land use planning and management in Zimbabwe. The study employs a comprehensive literature search and review from databases such as Google Scholar, Science Direct, Scopus and PubMed. The review concludes that incorporating wetlands governance into rural land use planning and management presents an opportunity to enhance sustainability and resilience in the rural landscapes of Zimbabwe. Literature has demonstrated that addressing governance gaps, fostering stakeholder participation, resolving land use conflicts and integrating conservation into land planning, are key steps towards sustainability. However, there is need for a more coordinated all-stakeholder involvement, including policy-makers, environmental agencies and local communities who directly interact with and depend on wetlands, in decision-making, implementation of conservation efforts and monitoring. To strengthen wetlands governance in rural land use planning and management, the article presents three key recommendations. First, clear legal statutes must be established to define the roles and responsibilities of all stakeholders involved in wetlands governance. Second, comprehensive research is needed to assess the impacts of various land uses on wetlands in rural landscapes, ensuring informed decision-making. Finally, integrated frameworks should be developed to embed wetlands governance into rural land use planning, ensuring a coordinated and effective approach
The Right to be Rural: A Discussion with Reference to Africa
The study examines the concept of being rural in the context of Africa, particularly in light of the expansion of unplanned peri-urban settlements encroaching on rural areas. Rural communities in Africa have been threatened by the outwards growth of urban areas and the illegal sale of communal lands by village heads, leading to the disappearance of rural livelihoods in the process. The study problematises the lack of rural development and planning which are causing the loss of the right to be rural due to the development of peri-urban centres and counterurbanisation, leading to the failure of communal livelihoods. The research employs a qualitative research methodology with a case study design. The study utilises secondary data, sourced from Google Scholar articles and news reports. The research employs thematic data analysis as the method of data analysis to examine the study's findings. The study findings reveal that the right to be rural is slowly disappearing in Africa as evidenced by the growth of peri-urbanisation. The study concludes that it is upon African governments to initiate rural development and planning initiatives that protect communal lands and give ownership to residents. The study recommends the implementation of policies that reduce illegal sale of communal lands.
The Emerging Spatiality of Rural Settlement Patterns in Zimbabwe: A Critique
The study critically examines the geography of rural settlement patterns in Zimbabwe. The population of Zimbabwe remains, in spatial terms, largely rural, with most of the people living in areas that lack clear spatial planning. Zimbabwe has experienced unprecedented illegal sale of state land by land barons (commonly called, in colloquial vernacular parlance, Sabhuku deals), who exercise authority, be it traditional or state authority. The study problematises the lack of spatial planning and control of rural settlement development as Zimbabwe continues to experience unplanned development of settlements. The research adopts a qualitative research methodology as the approach best explains social facts without reducing them into codes and statistics. The research utilises a case-study research methodological design. It uses secondary information as a method of data collection, using journals and news reports. It utilises thematic data analysis. The research findings reveal that the geography of rural settlement patterns in Zimbabwe bears a colonial legacy, with nucleated rural designs being one of the colonial settlement patterns. The study shows that scattered rural settlement patterns in Zimbabwe are a result of the land reform programme that aimed to address colonial legacies in post-colonial Zimbabwe. The research concludes that the Zimbabwean rural settlement is an ambivalent balance between colonial legacies and post-colonial ambitions to address inequalities by creating scattered rural patterns to address nucleated settlements. The research recommends policies that address land barons and land use changes.
Sustainable Construction of Rural Building Structures under the Impact of Increased Tropical Cyclonic Events
The increasing frequency and intensity of tropical cyclones in Zimbabwe, driven by climate change, have highlighted the need for sustainable construction practices. While modern construction techniques and advanced materials are becoming more prevalent, traditional building methods remain widely used, particularly in rural areas, due to economic constraints and cultural perceptions. Using secondary data sources, the study examines the interplay between traditional and modern construction approaches. There is need for strategies, materials and practices which contribute to environmental sustainability and social cohesion in rural communities. The findings indicate that while advanced materials and technologies enhance resilience, traditional practices also offer valuable, sustainable solutions. Achieving a balance between these approaches is crucial for promoting environmental sustainability, reducing construction costs and improving access to financing. The study highlights the need for well-defined strategies that integrate both traditional and modern construction methods to enhance resilience in rural communities.
Socio-Economic Impact of the Chinese Foreign Direct Investment in Gold Mining: The Case of Shamva District, Zimbabwe
This article investigates the socio-economic impact of Chinese Foreign Direct Investment (FDI) in gold mining within Zimbabwe’s Shamva District, exploring both its benefits and challenges. Employing a qualitative research paradigm and semi-structured interviews, the research highlights opportunities such as job creation, infrastructure development and technology transfer. This approach enables in-depth understanding of complex socio-economic phenomena, capturing nuanced and contextual insights. Fifty participants (50), including local miners, community leaders, government officials and Chinese mining representatives, were purposively selected to ensure a diverse and relevant sample. Key challenges identified include environmental degradation, economic disparities and social displacement, exposing the negative consequences of FDI. Findings reveal that while FDI contributes to some economic opportunities, it also causes significant environmental harm and social disruption. Issues such as community marginalisation and insufficient benefits distribution exacerbate these impacts. The study underscores the need for inclusive decision-making, robust governance frameworks and community engagement to mitigate adverse effects and ensure sustainable development. Recommendations focus on fostering transparency, accountability and community participation in FDI projects. By addressing these critical issues, the research provides valuable insights for policy-makers, stakeholders and communities, aiming to optimise FDI benefits, while achieving balanced, equitable development in Shamva District.
Rural-to-Rural Displacement and the Socioeconomic Fallout of Land Redistribution and Disaster Risk Reduction: Lessons from Tokwe-Mukosi
The study examines the socioeconomic consequences of land redistribution and climate-induced displacement in the Tokwe-Mukosi region of Zimbabwe, concentrating on the 2014/15 flooding disaster and its repercussions. The research investigates how the convergence of coerced rural-to-rural displacements, insufficient disaster risk mitigation and contentious land redistribution policies intensifies vulnerability, poverty and social inequality among impacted households. The article employs desktop research to analyse the experiences of displaced rural communities, emphasising the obstacles they encounter in reconstructing livelihoods, obtaining resources and assimilating into new settlements. The analysis demonstrates that fragmented policies, insufficient stakeholder coordination and restricted community involvement in decision-making impede sustainable adaptation to climate-induced risks. The study places the Tokwe-Mukosi case within broader debates on climate resilience, social justice and land reform, highlighting the urgent need for inclusive, forward-looking strategies that centre the rights, voices and long-term resilience of marginalised rural communities in displacement and land redistribution efforts. The study calls for setting aside land for temporary or transitional use after disasters as part of reducing risk in rural areas. The study contributes to policy discussions on how to better connect land reform and climate adaptation to support fair and lasting development in rural Zimbabwe.
Rural Responsible Tourism in Zimbabwe: Challenges, Options and Impacts
The article provides insights into rural responsible tourism (RRT), focusing mainly on challenges, options and impacts to understand the principles governing rural tourism development in Zimbabwe. The study is motivated by the continual request for heritage-based tourism activities and attractions in the rural areas. As a result, this article proposes a Rural Responsible Tourism Framework to present the implementation process. A qualitative research approach was used to collect data from purposively selected case studies, namely Nzvimbo Village in Chiweshe in the Mazowe District of Mashonaland Central Province and Kore-kore Village in Makonde District of Mashonaland West Province in Zimbabwe. Data were collected using a focus group guide developed in line with the research objectives. Findings of the study indicate that though challenges to develop RRT exist, there is great potential for the government to tap into the tourism business to create opportunities for empowering the rural people. This initiative helps to manage and reduce rural-urban migration resulting in the betterment of undeveloped and marginalised communities. The study, therefore, recommends that there be a holistic approach in the implementation process of the findings with all stakeholders, including the government, through its regulatory bodies playing a part in the implementation process
Rural Land Policy: Case Comparisons of Ethiopia, Lesotho and Botswana
Rural land policy is crucial in shaping agricultural productivity, food security, poverty reduction and environmental sustainability. The article conducts a comparative analysis of rural land policies in Ethiopia, Lesotho and Botswana, examining their distinct historical, social and economic contexts. Ethiopia's state-centric land tenure system, Lesotho's leasehold approach and Botswana's decentralised tribal land management offer diverse frameworks for understanding land governance. By employing a comparative approach and integrating the Evolutionary Theory, the article explores the impact of different land tenure systems on agricultural productivity, tenure security and access to credit. The analysis reveals tenure security as a core objective across all three countries, with varied effectiveness in land reforms. Ethiopia's large-scale state interventions, Lesotho's systematic land regularisation and Botswana's rural diversification highlight distinct policy outcomes. Key findings emphasise context-specific solutions, participatory governance and integrating customary and statutory systems. The study emphasises the critical role of women in land management and addressing gender disparities in land rights to enhance socio-economic development. In light of climate change and globalisation, the article advocates for climate-resilient agricultural practices and rural diversification to mitigate external impacts. Insights gathered offer valuable lessons for policy-makers, scholars and development practitioners aiming to enhance land tenure security, promote sustainable land use and improve rural livelihoods in Africa. This study contributes to the broader discourse on land governance and rural development through cross-country learning and adapting best practices.
Rural Industrialisation: Some Global and Regional Perspectives and Lessons for the 21st Century
The study critically explores global and regional perspectives of rural economic growth strategies, drawing lessons for the 21st century. Rural areas in developing countries face the problem of underdevelopment, widening the rural-urban divide. Rural poverty has made investors to shun doing business in these areas, limiting the opportunities for people living in the countryside. Rural development of industries has emerged as a strategy for rural development, allowing communities to craft better surviving skills. The study is premised on the argument that most perspectives of rural development (agriculture-based approaches, mining and tourism) have failed due to a lack of viable infrastructure to support industrialisation. A qualitative methodology with a case study design is employed. The study utilises secondary information through the use of Google Scholar articles and news reports. The study makes use of thematic data analysis. The findings of the study reveal that rural industrial development has value-addition of local resources. They also show that rural economic development has been crafted to create sustainable livelihoods for rural residents. The study findings are in sync with the conceptual framework -the sustainable livelihoods framework as rural industrialisation has become a people-centred approach as shown by the role of higher education community engagement. The study concludes that rural industrial development can bridge the rural-urban divide and recommends the creation of rural industrial parks and innovation hubs to accelerate value addition.
Rural Housing Re-examined for Resilience Enhancement in Zimbabwe
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.
Rural Development through Carbon Credits: Reflections on the Alternative of Carbon Capture in Developing Countries
The development of communities through nature-based solutions to environmental challenges has been seen as instrumental in promoting rural livelihoods and sustainable development. The facets of development, that is, social economic, political and environmental, have been successful in an area endowed with natural resources, such as forests. However, environmental challenges, such as climate change, have threatened the facets of development through its many and varied challenges. In trying to mitigate the challenges of climate change, innovative measures of reducing and removing atmospheric greenhouse gases (GHG) and at the same time improving people’s livelihoods, such as carbon crediting, are gaining momentum, especially in developing countries. Rural communities can now develop through nature-based solutions and this has been viewed as a sustainable way of improving the community’s livelihoods and mitigating climate change. The central argument of this article is that rural areas can be developed through alternative forms of carbon capturing which provide stocks of reduced or removed atmospheric carbon. Stocks of carbon can be sold by individuals or the community on the carbon market. The study is based on qualitative research that relies more on secondary than primary data. Secondary data was obtained through an extensive review of literature, whilst informant interviews, using interview guides, were used to obtain primary data.
Rural Community Resilience in Zimbabwe: The Gaps, Myths and Realities
The article explores various views and complexities of rural community resilience in Zimbabwe. Although rural communities are often praised for their resilience in the face of adversity; the complexity of this resilience is frequently misunderstood or oversimplified. The study employs a systematic review approach to ensure rigor, transparency and replicability in examining rural community resilience in Zimbabwe. The review follows the Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analyses (PRISMA) guidelines. A set of inclusion and exclusion criteria guided the selection process. Peer-reviewed articles and reports focusing on rural resilience in Zimbabwe, particularly in the context of climate change, socio-economic challenges, governance, indigenous knowledge systems, gender dynamics and development interventions, are included. The article highlights the critical role of Indigenous Knowledge Systems (IKS) in building rural community resilience in Zimbabwe. Although traditional knowledge is often overlooked in modern resilience building strategies, an integrated approach that combines both traditional and modern methods is essential for sustainable resilience building. Such an approach challenges common myths about rural communities suggesting that they are overly reliant on external aid yet, in essence, they have strong social networks and community solidarity which play a crucial role in enhancing resilience, demonstrating the significance of social capital in problem-solving and adaptation. Despite the importance of local knowledge and expertise, the literature indicates that rural community participation in disaster and climate resilience planning remains limited. Most strategies are designed and implemented by external stakeholders with minimal local involvement, threatening the long-term sustainability of resilience initiatives. To address this, the study recommends inclusive participation, ensuring that all stakeholders are actively involved in every stage, from problem identification to implementation and evaluation. Strengthening local ownership of resilience strategies is crucial to their success and sustainability
Economic Shocks as Reference Point to the Quest to Curbing Rural Crimes
The article explores the intersection of economic challenges, rural wellbeing and criminal behaviour in Zimbabwe. The study focuses on the lived experiences and perceptions of people in Chikomba and Buhera rural districts of Zimbabwe on the criminal dynamics in the face of economic challenges. A qualitative methodology is adopted where indepth and key informant interviews were used to explore the extent to that poverty, unemployment and declining agricultural productivity contribute to criminal activities. The Strain Theory and the Rational Choice Theory are employed to analyse the criminal tendencies shown by people and understand the meaning behind such behaviour. The findings show that economic shocks tear apart traditional livelihoods, resulting in the breakdown of the social fabric, where due to desperation, some engage in criminal activities. Furthermore, the gendered impacts of economic shocks are highlighted as women are disproportionately affected. The article highlights the need for community-driven solutions. These include local governance strengthening, livelihood diversification and fostering resilience via sustainable rural development. The study submits that mitigating the economic causes of rural crime requires holistic and participatory methods to prioritise empowerment initiatives instead of punitive measures.
Economic Base Analysis for Rural Districts in Zimbabwe: An Old Paradigm a New Question
The study emphasises the significance of economic base analysis in rural districts of Zimbabwe, highlighting the challenges faced by local authorities in providing essential services. Contrary to traditional approaches that prioritise urban development, economic base analysis advocates for a bottom-up approach, focusing on the inherent potential of rural areas. Central to this perspective is the promotion of rural industrialisation to foster economic growth and alleviate rural poverty. Despite its global relevance, economic base analysis has been underutilised in understanding rural economic development in Zimbabwe, with most projects relying on subjective opinions, rather than empirical analysis. To address this gap, the study employs a comprehensive desk review and literature review, utilising data analysis techniques such as textual analysis. Through case studies, the article illuminates the economic potential of rural areas and provides insights for policy-makers on strategies for rural industrialisation and economic development. By offering a detailed overview of the Economic Base Analysis Theory, historical development, methodological approaches and empirical findings, the study contributes to the discourse on rural development. The conclusion underscores the importance of leveraging economic base analysis to inform policy decisions, with a major recommendation advocating for increased focus on rural industrialisation as a viable option for policy-makers aiming to address rural economic challenges.
Dynamics of Rural Settlement Patterns Amid Environmental Change in Selected Zimbabwean Districts
Environmental change profoundly impacts rural settlement patterns, livelihoods and socio-economic stability, particularly in vulnerable regions like Zimbabwe. This study employs a case study approach, focusing on Chimanimani, Lower Muzarabani and Binga districts, to systematically analyse the interplay between climate change, natural hazards and human activities in driving rural settlement dynamics. Using qualitative methods, including interviews, focus group discussions and policy analysis, the research investigates changes in settlement structures, adaptive strategies and the effectiveness of government policies. Key findings reveal the significant influence of natural hazards, such as Cyclone Idai in Chimanimani that displaced over 14 000 residents and created fragmented communities. In Lower Muzarabani, drought induced migration along riverbanks reflects adaptive but risky strategies tied to cyclical environmental pressures. In Binga, resettlement following the construction of the Kariba Dam emphasises the long-term challenges of displacement, including water scarcity and socio-economic disruptions. The discussion critically evaluates these findings, linking them to theoretical perspectives, such as the Human-Environment Interaction Theory, the Location Theory and the Push-Pull Theory. The study assesses the National Climate Policy and Zimbabwe National Human Settlements Policy, highlighting successes in infrastructure development but identifying gaps in addressing water scarcity and resilience. Recommendations include integrating indigenous knowledge with modern technologies, developing climate-smart villages, enhancing participatory land-use planning and implementing ecosystem-based adaptation strategies. This research advances understanding of rural settlement dynamics and proposes actionable solutions to support resilience and sustainable development in Zimbabwe’s rural communities.
Dam Infrastructure Provision in Rural Africa: Some Selected Country Case Studies
The study examines the provision of dam infrastructure in rural Africa through case studies from selected countries, aiming to assess challenges, opportunities and impacts on water resources and economic development. By reviewing literature and empirical data, it offers insights into dam infrastructure's effectiveness in addressing rural communities' water and energy needs. Through case study analysis, the study identifies lessons for future development efforts. It argues that dam infrastructure has potential to address water scarcity, promote agriculture and enhance energy security, contingent on factors like funding, governance and community involvement. The major objective is to assess dam projects' impacts on water access, agriculture and energy security in rural Africa and to identify lessons for future efforts. Key questions addressed are the challenges and opportunities of dam provision, their impacts on rural communities and lessons learned from case studies. Methodologically, the study employs desk-based research and case study analysis, drawing data from academic journals, government reports and non-governmental organisation (NGO) publications. For data analysis, the study utilises textual analysis to examine and interpret the qualitative information gathered from the selected case studies and other relevant sources. The study recommends careful planning, stakeholder engagement and environmental stewardship to ensure dam infrastructure sustainability and success in rural Africa.
Chiefs and Headman Courts in Zimbabwe: Some Administrative and Ethical Considerations for Improvement
The study critically examines chiefs’ and headmen’ courts in Zimbabwe and seeks to establish the administrative and ethical challenges they encounter, with a view to improving their approach to governance. Traditional chiefs and headmen are part of the African governance system that was in existence prior to the colonisation of Africa. These were weakened during colonial times, serving only at the behest of colonial governments. In the post-colonial era, chiefs and headmen were moved into the judiciary system and local government in Zimbabwe as their role was ceremonial during the colonial rule. The study problematises the ethical and administrative shortfalls of traditional courts in Zimbabwe with chiefs coming under scrutiny for human rights violations and unethical conduct. The study utilises a qualitative research methodology with a case study research design to understand the operation of traditional leaders in their courts. The study employs secondary information as the data collection method, using newspaper reports. The study further utilises the thematic data analysis method. The findings indicate that traditional courts have become shrines of revictimisation and re-traumatisation of victims in Zimbabwe due to the use of social media without censorship. The study concludes that embracing technology in traditional courts has created challenges and ambiguities as they have led to disintegration of these courts into centres of vulgarity. The study recommends censorship of traditional court cases on social media.
The land invasions plague The quest or a lasting land governance solution
The Fast Track Land Reform Programme in Zimbabwe could be said to have come to an end but, it was followed by another wave of land occupation that was more serious and damaging to the economy and the image of the country. The land invasions in Zimbabwe are largely seen as unlawful with land invading adversely affecting the commercial farming in Zimbabwe. The article critically explores how the land invasions have become a plague to the country reversing the government land reform and government Western reengagement drive. The article is premised on the argument that; land invasions have a more damaging impacts on the national development strategy as it makes investors shun investing in the country because of lack of land tenure security. The study used a qualitative methodology and secondary data as the source of the data. The study revealed that land invasions are rampant in Zimbabwe with most of the state land under threat of being invaded resulting in the loss of grazing lands. The study show that the some of the land invasions are government sanctioned against perceived enemies of the state that are vocal against the state human rights violations. The study concludes that land invasions remain a thorn in the flesh haunting the post-colonial governments showing that the liberation struggle land question was not fully addressed after the independence attainment.
Copyright (c) 2024 The Review of Rural Resilience Praxis
Small Livestock Rearing as A Mitigation Against the Vagaries of Climate Change Impacts in Rural Zimbabwe
This chapter critically examines the adoption of livestock rearing in Zimbabwe as mitigation measure against the adverse impacts of climate change in the rural areas. Climate change has proved to be a major challenge to the sustainability of rural livelihoods in Zimbabwe which are more dependent on agriculture hence the production of small livestock is a mitigation measure for sustaining rural households in the countryside where the effects of climate change are severe. This study is centred on how small livestock rearing can be a panacea to the impacts of climate change in the rural areas of Zimbabwe. Document and literature review was used to collect and gather information presented in this study. Various existing documents were reviewed for the purpose of this study and both qualitative and quantitative data was generated, presented and critically analysed. The results indicates that the adaptation of small livestock rearing has already began in the country as noted by their production in most parts of Matebeleland and Masvingo Province respectively. It can be argued that in as much small livestock rearing is a hedge against climate change effects in rural areas there is still limited information on how these are kept and their various breeds as well as the diseases that attack them and their treatment. Farmers still lack enough knowledge with regards to small livestock which is limiting its production and adaptation in the country. The study recommends the education of farmers on various diseases and the availability of medicines for treatment close to farmers. The study proposes coordination of the government, rural farmers and non-governmental organisation in raising awareness and fostering the adaptation of small livestock farming.
Rural towns in Zimbabwe urbanisation without growth and implications for sustainability
Many towns in sub-Saharan rural terrain are struggling with accelerated urbanisation because of the country’s’ present economic downfall prompting an investigation of difficulties and sustainability implications associated with excessive and unsustainable urbanisation trajectories. It underscores that urbanisation without economic growth is the primary challenge in rural towns. To provide a thorough analysis, the study employed a mixed method approach in data collection. Quantitative data collection in this study encompasses the use of surveys and statistical analysis to measure changes in infrastructure, economic indicators, and demographic trends. Recommendations advocate integrated, contextspecific development methods with a focus on community engagement, local economic promotion and infrastructure investment. Sustainable urban planning should be given top priority in policy interventions, considering social, economic and environmental factors. Collaboration between government, communities, and stakeholders is needed for effective implementation, fostering sustainable growth and improving well-being in rural Zimbabwean towns amid urbanisation challenges. The adaptation and resilience demonstrated by small rural towns in Zimbabwe suggest the possibility of sustainable development in rural places experiencing dynamic change, despite the obvious obstacles. For inclusive and sustainable growth, the study recommends that there should be improving infrastructure and service delivery in rural towns.
Rural Planning Missing link in fast-track Resettlement plots in Zimbabwe
The Fast-Track Land Reform Programme in Zimbabwe was undertaken to address the land question that the liberation struggle war had hitherto sought to use as a way of trying to correct the racial inequalities of resource distribution embedded in settler colonialism in Rhodesia. The land reform was undertaken mainly to address the poverty that was being faced by poor Zimbabweans in the erstwhile reserves who had limited access to productive agricultural land. Agriculture emerged as the key to poverty alleviation in Zimbabwe to lift most of the poor Zimbabweans and those who had returned from the war landless. The study critically explores how rural planning was not implemented in the resettlement process in Zimbabwe. The article examines the missing link in the Fast-Track Land Reform Programme in Zimbabwe as the government tried to resolve the inherent poverty in black African rural communities. The study used a qualitative methodology with a bias towards the case study design. The study concludes that the land reform has not realised its potential so far. This might be because it has a missing link that is it lacked rural planning. The study recommends the decentralisation of the resettlement process from the central government to the rural councils.
Rural accessibility under siege Extreme climate events and road infrastructure damage in Southern Africa
Climate change has had adverse impacts on rural infrastructures especially those situated in areas with poor road infrastructure. Rural accessibility is under threat in Southern Africa due to extreme climatic events. The vagaries of climate change are not only disturbing the livelihoods, but the transport infrastructures and livelihoods in rural contexts. The article critically examines the view that rural accessibility is under siege from extreme climate events that are destroying road infrastructure. Climate change has had adverse impacts on rural areas leaving road infrastructure damaged and that has resulted in poor accessibility in these areas. The article stems from the argument that Southern African countries’ rural accessibility is under siege because post-colonial governments have failed to create rural development frameworks that are resilient to climate change. The study used a qualitative research methodology using secondary data, which has the main advantage of easy accessibility. The data was gathered from secondary sources journals and newspaper articles and the data was analysed using narrative data analysis analytical tool. The study revealed that cyclones are destructive to the road infrastructure in Southern Africa with most roads and bridges being damaged rendering accessibility of most areas useless as the road infrastructure is wiped away. The study concludes that post-colonial state development drives are under threat from climate change as it is destroying infrastructure. There is a need for risk and disaster preparedness in Southern Africa through the development of good road networks that are climate resilient in rural areas. Governments in Southern Africa must create resilient communities through multiple rural road transport networks.