Abstract:
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 livelihoods programmes. 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 and 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 Chimanimani Rural District of
Zimbabwe. Whilst councils are the nerve centres for rural development, their
members are continuously failing to make 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 organisations 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.
Description:
The purpose of the Review of Rural Resilience Praxis is to provide a forum for
disaster risk mitigation, adaptation, and preparedness.
