Socio-ecological Dynamics Within Rural Settlements: Evidence from Mbire District in Zimbabwe

Abstract

Humans are a part, of and not separate from, nature, and as such policies that enhance the co-relationship of humans and nature while adaptive are a necessity now than before. This article investigates the socio-ecological dynamics within rural settlements in Mbire, Zimbabwe. It provides reasons for people’s migration to Mbire from some parts of Zimbabwe. It brings out the increase in school dropouts in Mbire and how teachers are understaffed. The study unravels the issues concerning black magic that was practised then, the school dropouts in Mbire, the history of people moving in search of salt, their communication with spirit mediums and cotton farming. Interviews and desktop research were used, with content analysis for data analysis and collection. The remedy for meeting challenges arising from socio-ecological changes is facilitating adaptive measures that meet the emerging needs of communities without compromising nature’s rights.