Re-imagining Zimbabwe’s National Culture: A Path to Resolving Political and Economic Conflicts by Resetting To a New National Culture

Zimbabwe’s political landscape since the 1980 independence that ushered in a black majority rule of the Zanu PF government of the late President Robert Mugabe, has been profoundly shaped by the centralization of power, which has significantly influenced the nation’s cultural dynamics. This centralization, largely a legacy of the liberation struggle, has effectively eclipsed the influence of communities and household families—the foundational units of society. The result has been a national culture characterized by a high power-distance index, where authority is concentrated in the hands of a few, leaving the broader population with little influence over their governance and daily lives.

By Brighton Musonza

This imbalance has not only eroded traditional values and customs but has also fostered a culture of political violence, corruption, and abuse of state institutions. To redirect Zimbabwe towards a more equitable and prosperous future, there is an urgent need for intellectual leadership that can redefine the nation’s cultural identity by narrowing the power-distance index, empowering communities, and revitalizing local customs and traditions.

The Legacy of Centralized Power System

Since gaining independence in 1980, Zimbabwe has seen power become increasingly centralized in the hands of the ruling elite, particularly within the ruling party, ZANU-PF. This centralization was initially justified as necessary to maintain unity and stability in a newly independent nation. However, over the decades, it has led to a situation where political power is largely inaccessible to ordinary citizens. Decision-making processes are opaque, and the voices of communities and families—the bedrock of Zimbabwean society—are often ignored or marginalized.

The high power-distance index in Zimbabwe reflects a societal acceptance of this unequal distribution of power. In a high power-distance society, individuals are less likely to challenge authority, and hierarchical structures are deeply entrenched. This has been evident in Zimbabwean politics, where the ruling elite has maintained its dominance through a combination of patronage, coercion, and control over state institutions. The result has been a political culture that prioritizes the interests of the few over the many, with little regard for the principles of democracy, transparency, and accountability.

The Software of the Zimbabwean Mind

National culture can be understood as the “software of the mind”—the set of values, beliefs, and norms that shape the behaviour of individuals and institutions. In Zimbabwe, this software has been heavily influenced by the centralization of power and the legacy of the liberation struggle. The values and principles that once guided the nation—such as communalism, respect for elders, and the sanctity of family—have been eroded by a political culture that glorifies power, wealth, and loyalty to the ruling party above all else.

The dysfunctionality of Zimbabwean national culture, influenced by centralized power and a high power distance index, can be understood through the lens of these three levels of mental programming. At the human nature level, the drive for survival and control supports the concentration of power. At the cultural level, long-standing traditions of authority and hierarchy have become entrenched, discouraging challenges to the status quo. Finally, at the personality level, individual behaviors are shaped by both the cultural environment and personal experiences, leading to a society where compliance often outweighs resistance.

This shift in values has had profound implications for individual behaviour. The pursuit of power and wealth has led to a culture of corruption, where public office is seen as a means of personal enrichment rather than public service. Political violence has become a tool for maintaining power, with opposition voices often silenced through intimidation and coercion. The abuse of state resources and institutions has become commonplace, further entrenching inequality and undermining trust in the government.

At the same time, the lack of an effective organizational culture in both political and private institutions has exacerbated these issues. In many cases, political organizations are driven by short-term goals and personal ambition rather than a commitment to the public good. Similarly, privately owned companies often prioritize profit over social responsibility, contributing to a broader culture of exploitation and inequality.

The Need for a New National Culture

To address these challenges, Zimbabwe needs a new national culture that reimagines the relationship between power and the people. This new culture must be grounded in the nation’s rich traditions, values, and principles, but also be forward-looking and adaptable to the demands of a modern, democratic society.

A critical aspect of this new culture must be the empowerment of communities and households. Historically, Zimbabwean society was organized around the village and the family, with decisions made through consensus and guided by respect for tradition and communal well-being. Reinvigorating these structures can help to reduce the power-distance index by giving ordinary citizens a greater say in how they are governed. This could involve devolving certain powers to local authorities, strengthening community-based organizations, and encouraging greater participation in decision-making processes at all levels of society.

At the same time, there is a need for intellectual leadership that can articulate and promote a new “software of mind” for the nation. This leadership must draw on Zimbabwe’s cultural traditions and symbols to foster a sense of national pride and identity that transcends political divisions. By emphasizing values such as self-respect, kindness, and utilitarianism, this new culture can help to heal the divisions that have plagued the country for so long.

Political Violence, Corruption and Abuse of State Institutions

One of the most pressing challenges facing Zimbabwe is the pervasive culture of political violence and corruption. Both are symptoms of the broader issues of centralized power and a high power-distance index. To combat these problems, the new national culture must promote a commitment to the rule of law, transparency, and accountability. This could involve strengthening institutions such as the judiciary and anti-corruption bodies, as well as fostering a culture of whistleblowing and civic activism.

Education will also play a crucial role in this cultural transformation. By teaching the next generation about the importance of ethical leadership, community service, and respect for the rule of law, Zimbabwe can begin to break the cycle of corruption and violence that has stifled its development for so long.

Zimbabwe Power Distance Index

The concept of the Power-Distance Index (PDI), as developed by social psychologist Geert Hofstede, measures the degree to which less powerful members of a society accept and expect that power is distributed unequally. In the context of Zimbabwe’s national culture, the Power-Distance Index would likely be considered relatively high, reflecting the significant centralization of power and authority within the political and social structures of the country.

Zimbabwe’s High Power-Distance Index: Key Characteristics

1. Centralization of Power:
   • Since independence in 1980, Zimbabwe has seen a significant concentration of power within the executive branch of government, particularly within the ruling party, ZANU-PF. The president and top government officials hold substantial authority, often making decisions without widespread consultation or accountability.
   • This centralization has extended beyond politics into economic and social spheres, where power is concentrated in the hands of a few elites, leaving the majority of the population with little influence over national decisions.
2. Cultural Acceptance of Authority:
   • In a high power-distance society like Zimbabwe, there is often a cultural acceptance of hierarchical structures. This means that the population generally accepts the authority of those in power, even if that power is exercised in an authoritarian or non-transparent manner.
   • Traditional Zimbabwean culture, with its emphasis on respect for elders and authority figures, has in some ways reinforced this dynamic, making it challenging to challenge or question those in power.
3. Impact on Governance and Society:
   • The high PDI in Zimbabwe has contributed to a political culture where leaders are often seen as unaccountable and where dissent is not easily tolerated. This has led to issues such as political violence, corruption, and a lack of transparency in governance.
   • The concentration of power has also undermined the role of local communities and traditional structures, which historically played a crucial role in governance and decision-making at the grassroots level.
4. Economic Implications:
   • The high PDI has economic consequences as well, as it often leads to an uneven distribution of resources and opportunities. The concentration of economic power in the hands of a few has contributed to widespread poverty and inequality, with little opportunity for upward mobility for the majority of the population.

The Rise of Evangelical and Apostolic Churches: A Double-Edged Sword on Zimbabwe’s National Culture

Over the past few decades, Zimbabwe has witnessed a significant rise in evangelical and apostolic churches, a phenomenon that has reshaped the religious landscape and deeply influenced the nation’s social fabric. While these religious movements have offered spiritual solace to many in times of economic and social upheaval, their rapid proliferation has also raised concerns about their impact on Zimbabwe’s national culture, traditional beliefs, values, and principles. The economic deprivation that has driven many to seek refuge in these churches has also opened the door to exploitation by so-called “false prophets,” further complicating the situation.

The rise of evangelical and apostolic churches in Zimbabwe can be traced back to the late 20th century, coinciding with the country’s economic decline and political instability. These churches have gained popularity by offering hope and a sense of community to those disillusioned by the state’s failure to provide basic services and economic opportunities. They have grown exponentially, often attracting large congregations with promises of prosperity, healing, and spiritual deliverance.

Negative Impact on National Culture

1. Erosion of Traditional Beliefs and Customs: The spread of evangelical and apostolic churches has led to the erosion of traditional Zimbabwean beliefs and customs. These churches often denounce indigenous religious practices and ancestral worship as “pagan” or “demonic,” leading to a cultural disconnection among their followers. As a result, many Zimbabweans have abandoned traditional ceremonies, rituals, and beliefs that have been passed down through generations. This loss of cultural heritage threatens the continuity of Zimbabwe’s rich and diverse traditions.
2. The undermining of National Values and Principles: The teachings of some evangelical and apostolic churches have, in some cases, undermined national values and principles such as unity, respect for elders, and communal responsibility. The emphasis on individual prosperity and personal salvation often promotes a self-centred worldview that runs counter to the collective ethos of Zimbabwean society. This shift in values can lead to social fragmentation and a weakening of the moral fabric that holds communities together.
3. Exploitation by False Prophets: The economic hardships faced by many Zimbabweans have made them vulnerable to exploitation by so-called “prophets” who promise quick fixes to their problems. These individuals often use religious rhetoric to manipulate their followers into giving away their hard-earned money, sometimes leading to financial ruin. The rise of these “prophets” has created a culture of dependency, where people are encouraged to rely on miracles rather than hard work and perseverance. This exploitation further deepens the cycle of poverty and disempowerment.

Economic Deprivation and the Search for Sanctuary

Zimbabwe’s prolonged economic crisis has driven many people to seek refuge in churches, where they hope to find answers to their financial woes and personal struggles. In a country where formal employment is scarce and opportunities for upward mobility are limited, the promise of divine intervention offers a glimmer of hope. However, this search for sanctuary has also made people susceptible to exploitation, as some religious leaders prey on the desperation of their congregants.

The Need for Cultural and Intellectual Leadership

To address the challenges posed by the rise of evangelical and apostolic churches, there is a need for strong cultural and intellectual leadership in Zimbabwe. This leadership should focus on:

1. Reviving and Promoting Traditional Beliefs and Practices: Efforts should be made to revive and promote Zimbabwe’s traditional beliefs and practices, ensuring that they are preserved for future generations. This could involve the documentation and teaching of indigenous knowledge systems in schools and communities, as well as the promotion of traditional ceremonies and festivals.
2. Fostering a National Culture Rooted in Local Values: There is a need to foster a national culture that is rooted in Zimbabwean values such as respect, kindness, communal responsibility, and utilitarianism. This culture should emphasize the importance of hard work, self-reliance, and collective well-being, countering the individualistic tendencies promoted by some religious movements.
3. Regulating Religious Practices: The government and civil society should work together to regulate religious practices and protect vulnerable individuals from exploitation. This could involve the introduction of laws and policies that hold religious leaders accountable for their actions, as well as the establishment of oversight bodies to monitor the activities of churches.
4. Empowering Communities: Efforts should be made to empower communities economically and socially, reducing their reliance on religious institutions for survival. This could involve the creation of job opportunities, the provision of social services, and the promotion of entrepreneurship at the grassroots level.

The Need for Change

To address these issues, there is a need for a cultural shift that would lower the power-distance index in Zimbabwe. This would involve:

• Decentralization of Power: Empowering local communities and allowing for more participatory decision-making processes would help reduce the concentration of power and give ordinary citizens a greater voice in governance.
• Promoting Accountability and Transparency: Encouraging a culture where leaders are held accountable for their actions and where transparency is valued would help build trust between the government and the people.
• Education and Civic Engagement: Promoting education that encourages critical thinking and civic engagement can help create a more informed and active citizenry that is less willing to accept unequal power structures.

Towards a More Equitable Society

Ultimately, the goal of this new national culture must be to create a more equitable and inclusive society. This means not only narrowing the power-distance index but also ensuring that all citizens have access to the opportunities and resources they need to thrive.

By empowering communities and households, revitalizing traditional values, and fostering a culture of transparency and accountability, Zimbabwe can build a society where power is not concentrated in the hands of the few but shared among all its citizens.

Conclusion

In conclusion, Zimbabwe stands at a crossroads. The centralization of power that has characterized its political landscape since 1980 has led to a culture of political and economic inequality, corruption, and political violence. To move forward, the nation needs to embrace a new national culture that is rooted in its traditions but also responsive to the needs of a modern, democratic society. This culture must empower communities, promote ethical leadership, and reduce the power-distance index, ultimately leading to a more just and prosperous Zimbabwe.

The rise of evangelical and apostolic churches in Zimbabwe is a complex phenomenon that reflects the country’s broader socio-economic challenges. While these churches have provided spiritual support to many, they have also contributed to the erosion of traditional culture and values, and in some cases, facilitated exploitation. To navigate these challenges, Zimbabwe must look to its cultural heritage and develop a national culture that empowers individuals and communities, reduces power imbalances, and promotes social cohesion. This requires the active involvement of intellectual and cultural leaders who can guide the nation towards a future where traditional values and modern challenges are balanced harmoniously.

To address this dysfunctionality, Zimbabwe must re-examine its national culture, reduce the power distance, and empower communities and individuals to actively participate in governance and societal development. This requires fostering a new cultural mindset that values accountability, transparency, and respect for traditional values while promoting individual agency and innovation.

Brighton Musonza (MBA) is a commentator on social, political, business and economic affairs in general with much more emphasis on Zimbabwe.

He can be reached at musomusonza@gmail.com, and you can follow him on X (formerly Twitter) at @bla_bidza.