Livelihoods of Ethnic Minorities in Rural Zimbabwe

The book explores the lives and livelihoods of marginalized ethnic minorities in colonial and post-colonial Zimbabwe, highlighting the complex relationships between ethnic minorities and livelihoods and the projects of belonging and identity-formation. It includes case studies of various ethnic groups, such as the Chewa, Doma, Tonga, Tshwa San, Shangane, Basotho, Ndau, Hlengwe, and Nambya, and offers insight into the significance of these ethnic minorities to Zimbabwean history, politics, and society.

Format: Paperback / softback
Length: 228 pages
Publication date: 22 April 2023
Publisher: Springer Nature Switzerland AG

The book delves into the captivating and intricate lives of marginalized ethnic minorities in colonial and post-colonial Zimbabwe, with a particular emphasis on diverse rural areas. Through empirically rich case studies, it unravels the dynamic and multifaceted relationships that exist between these ethnic minorities and their livelihoods. It explores the intricate web of projects of belonging and identity-formation that intertwine with their livelihood construction endeavors, and vice versa. The book encompasses a wide range of ethnic minorities, including those considered indigenous to Zimbabwe as well as those often labeled as 'aliens,' encompassing ethnicities with a transnational presence in southern Africa. Among the ethnicities studied in depth are the Chewa, Doma, Tonga, Tshwa San, Shangane, Basotho, Ndau, Hlengwe, and Nambya. By examining their unique livelihoods, this book offers a groundbreaking and comprehensive manuscript that sheds light on the significant role of these ethnic minorities in the history, politics, and society of Zimbabwe.

The book's exploration of the lives and livelihoods of these marginalized ethnic minorities provides a valuable insight into the complex tapestry of Zimbabwe's history and society. It highlights the resilience and adaptability of these communities in the face of adversity, as well as their contributions to the country's cultural and economic heritage. Through its detailed case studies, the book sheds light on the challenges and opportunities faced by these ethnic minorities, including issues such as land rights, access to education and healthcare, and social exclusion.

Moreover, the book's analysis of the relationships between ethnic minorities and livelihoods offers valuable insights into the broader political and social dynamics of Zimbabwe. It highlights the ways in which these communities have been marginalized and excluded from mainstream development processes, and the efforts they have made to assert their rights and claim a place in the nation's future. The book also explores the role of government policies, international aid, and cultural practices in shaping the livelihoods of these ethnic minorities, and the challenges they face in navigating the complex web of social and economic institutions.

In conclusion, the book provides a rich and comprehensive account of the lives and livelihoods of marginalized ethnic minorities in colonial and post-colonial Zimbabwe. Through its empirically-based analysis and insightful storytelling, it offers a valuable contribution to the field of anthropology, history, and social studies. It sheds light on the complex and multifaceted relationships that exist between ethnic minorities and their livelihoods, and highlights the importance of recognizing and valuing the diverse contributions of these communities to Zimbabwean history, politics, and society.

Weight: 373g
Dimension: 235 x 155 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9783030948023
Edition number: 1st ed. 2022