Women as agents of peace in the Midlands Province, Zimbabwe

Abstract

This chapter illustrates the fact that in order to achieve meaningful peace, reconciliation and sustainable development, Zimbabwe needs to empower women and promote their participation in governance and political leadership. Women and children suffer the most from violent conflict. They are often targeted because they are considered to be weak and vulnerable. The history of Zimbabwe has been mired by violent legacies and delays in reconciliation. The culture of violence dates from the colonial period to the present. Zimbabwe as a nation has not dealt decisively with its history of violence from 1886 to the time of writing. Most Zimbabweans believe that peace and reconciliation are potential remedies to socio-political and economic problems. The general consensus among Zimbabweans is that the national leadership cannot continue on their trajectory without facing the festering wounds manifesting in the form of a polarised nation caused by its violent past.