The psychosocial experiences of women and children associated with development induced internal displacement caused by the Tokwe-Mukosi Dam project, Zimbabwe

Abstract

Many development projects have resulted in the displacement of whole communities in Zimbabwe in recent decades. Most of these displacements have translated into extreme disadvantages for women and children. Previous research has largely focused on the economic, humanitarian, and human rights issues without segregating the psychosocial experiences women and children face owing to displacements. This study examined the legal frameworks, both international and municipal, that govern the internal displacement of people for development. The socio-political context in which development-based displacements take place in Zimbabwe was also examined. Viewed through the Human Security Approach and Maslow’s Hierarchy of Needs, this study also covered the insecurities and the psychosocial challenges that women and children experienced because of development induced displacements. The non-probability sampling method and the purposive sampling technique were employed in this study. The qualitative data gathered through Focus Group Discussions and Key Informant Interviews were used to explore the experiences of women and children associated with project-based displacement caused by the Tokwe-Mukosi Dam project. The findings of the study indicated that women and children experienced loss of property, land, social networks, identity, a sense of community, impoverishment, and were subjected to resettlement without adequate compensation. To the women and children, project-based development had negative psychosocial implications. Women and children were further exposed, alienated, and disenfranchised from social amenities needed for human development and growth. From these findings the study concludes that the largely colonial policy in displacement and resettlement violates human rights and further disadvantages women in their need to participate in development. There is therefore need for engendered policies in the displacement and resettlement to ensure the protection and assistance of women and children and whole communities. Social Workers and other humanitarian players need to play major roles. In advocating social amenities and facilitating just compensation and psychosocial wellbeing of the displaced women and children. Healthy relationships with host communities should be forged by Social Workers and all stakeholders to ensure smooth resettlement of the displaced.Thesis (MSci Soc) -- Faculty of Social Sciences and Humanities, 202