Tension, Mistrust, and Social Dichotomy Between War Veterans and Communities in Zimbabwe: A Paradox of Privilege and Disconnection

Abstract

This study investigates the roots of tension, mistrust, and social dichotomy between war veterans and communities in Zimbabwe, across the 10 provinces. Despite multiple welfare interventions, including the War Veterans Act (1992), veterans remain economically vulnerable and socially isolated, while communities perceive them as politically privileged yet disconnected. It aimed to (1) analyse the historical, political, and socio-economic factors contributing to this mistrust and (2) explore community perceptions, coping mechanisms, and potential pathways for reconciliation and integration. It was grounded in two complementary theories: Social Identity Theory, which explains how veterans are positioned as an “in-group” with symbolic authority, and Conflict Transformation Theory, which emphasizes relational and structural change for sustainable peace. Methodologically, the study adopts a pragmatic philosophy, qualitative dominant mixed method approach with an explanatory design. Data were collected through key informant interviews, document analysis of five institutional texts, including the War Veterans Act and African Union DDR Standards complemented by questionnaires. Thematic coding and content analysis, guided by Braun and Clarke’s framework, were used to identify recurring patterns and policy gaps. Abductive reasoning linked empirical findings to theoretical insights. The study concludes that Veteran–community relations in Zimbabwe are defined by a paradox; war veterans, once celebrated as liberators, are now perceived as politically privileged yet socially disconnected, while communities feel excluded and marginalized. This entrenched mistrust cannot be resolved through welfare alone. Sustainable reconciliation requires structural reforms that embed community voices, foster inclusive dialogue, and support grassroots cooperation. Veterans must be repositioned as equal participants in national development, moving beyond politicized, welfare-centric frameworks toward inclusive, community-driven reconciliation strategies that bridge divides and foster genuine social integration. Reconciliation requires more than welfare, it demands structured dialogue, community-driven economic cooperation, and cultural mediation. Reconciliation requires more than welfare, it demands structured dialogue, community-driven economic cooperation, and cultural mediation. It therefore recommendations reforming veteran legislation to embed integration mechanisms, empowering traditional and religious leaders to mediate tensions, and supporting grassroots initiatives that foster shared livelihoods and mutual respect. Ultimately develops an integrated reconciliation and cohesion model for transforming veteran–community relations and advancing inclusive development in Zimbabwe is proposed.