Ecumenical church leaders forum (eclf) peace building work and the sustainable development goals (sdgs) in Zimbabwe: special focus on Zaka, Masvingo province

Abstract

ABSTRACT Zimbabweans have been struggling to attain sustainable development for quite some time. This was caused by the past unresolved conflicts which blocked their unity making it practically possible to work together. However, this study is grounded on the ECLF’s peace building work and the SDGs in Zimbabwe, using Zaka as a case study. The research uses a theory from John Paul Lederach who defines peace as a comprehensive term that encompasses the full array of stages and approaches needed to transform conflicts towards sustainable peaceful relationships and outcomes. Using this perspective, the argument of this research is that development is not sustainable in the absence of peace, which comes from within and which is practical and realistic. The researcher collected data using interviews and questionnaires. The collected data are presented in an analytic way. The researcher also compares the ECLF’s peace building work and the selected Sustainable development goals, achieved in Zibwowa, Rwemhepo and Chiromo ward in Zaka. This study reveals that there were deep rooted conflicts which existed as a barrier to sustainable development. This research is significant as it shows that peace and development are inseparable, and the church should engage in local peace building initiatives, hence promoting sustainable development in Zimbabwe. Lastly, the study demonstrates that when people are united and peaceful, they work towards sustainable development, despite their religious, social, and political differences.