Abstract
This paper examines the evolution of thinking in the World Bank on development land reform in Zimbabwe. It argues that the evolving and broader definitions of land reform in Zimbabwe must consider the conditions necessary for the attainment of economic development that encompasses sustainable development, poverty alleviation, capacity building, gender equality, good governance and now conflict prevention and resolution. The paper explores an economic model of political power derived from Mancur Olson's work relating power and prosperity in both transition and developing economies. The model is applied to Zimbabwe after independence, under one ruler and one party — Robert Mugabe and ZANU-PF. The paper points out the impossibility of achieving necessary land reforms and sustainable development, given the nature of political power in present day Zimbabwe is due to lack of domestic African institutions that would check unbridled political power. The paper also provides some necessary conditions for sustainable development and credible land reforms in Zimbabwe.
Recommended Citation
Dube, Smile
(2001)
"Zimbabwe's Land Reform and Environmental Dilemma,"
Journal of African Policy Studies: Vol. 7:
No.
2, Article 6.
Available at:
https://ecommons.udayton.edu/joaps/vol7/iss2/6