Role of Traditional Leaders in Zimbabwe in Consolidating Peace

Abstract

The study endeavours to examine the role of chiefs, headmen, and Sabhuku in managing political conflict for national peacebuilding in Zimbabwe. Traditionally, conflicts were resolved by a council of chiefs, Sabhuku, and headmen. Chiefs, Headmen, and Sabhuku have long been active in mediation by balancing the process of mediation and tribal disputes, and in some cases have led in restoring peace and reconciliation endeavors. Traditional leaders have historically played significant roles in Zimbabwean society and their involvement in consolidating peace has been crucial. Traditional leaders in African indigenous tribes especially in Zimbabwe have been involved in dispute resolution for many decades. However, compared to work in the field of formal conflict resolution, their contributions to conflict resolution have not been as well documented. Data was collected through semi-structured interviews. 20 key informants were purposefully sampled using a qualitative approach. A case study approach was employed with the use of interviews. Secondary data sources and desk reviews were also used in the study in order to supplement primary data from interviews. The qualitative method of data analysis called the thematic approach was used in this research. The findings also suggest that traditional leaders settled the majority of the issues by sitting down with the opposing parties and conversing with them to find a resolution to the conflicts. The study's findings indicate traditional leaders' impact on political conflict resolution and peacebuilding procedures. The majority of the participants in this study had experience with local conflicts and have understanding of traditional practices. The study concludes that Chiefs, Headmans, and Sabhukus shape the processes of political conflict resolution and peacebuilding in Zimbabwe.