Examining the causes of intra-state conflicts in Zimbabwe and their impact on human security agenda

Abstract

The country has been highly susceptible to intra-state conflicts since the attainment of independence, thus this research assessed the causes of intra-state conflicts in Zimbabwe and the impact of intra-state conflicts on human security agenda. The main objectives were to assess the causes of intra-state conflicts in Zimbabwe, to analyze how intra-state conflict affect human security and to proffer recommendations on how intra-state conflicts can be managed as part of the human security agenda. The research collected data using random sampling method, from government officials, war vets, general population at large and eye witnesses and victims around the country through the use of questionnaires and interviews as methods of data gathering. Thematic approach was used in data analysis. The general conclusion was that in as much as intra-state conflicts have occurred in Zimbabwe they have severely impacted human security in different ways talk of loss of lives, destruction of infrastructure which is mainly because of the failure of the social contract between the government and the people thereby their negative impacts have retarded growth and development in Zimbabwe while an end to them seems obscure. Recommendation brought forward to minimise or eradicate intra-state conflicts and promote human security agenda include committed and sincere leadership, even distribution of resources, protection of fundamental human rights, eradication of poverty and finally provision of gainful employment especially for the youth and also putting into practice the use of preventive diplomacy. What then are the causes of these unending conflicts in Zimbabwe? How far have they impacted on human security and the potential development of Zimbabwe as a county? What can we do to overcome this monster? Answers to these questions form the bone of contention of this paper.