Bridging The Gap: Harnessing Diaspora Philanthropy to Develop Rural Infrastructure in Zimbabwe

Abstract

Research on diaspora philanthropy's contribution to rural development is growing. With increasing Zimbabwean emigration, investigating the migration-remittance-development nexus is vital. This paper explores the main drivers, actors, and opportunities central to diaspora philanthropy in bridging the resource gap in rural development through a qualitative research approach. Document analysis and literature review are applied as data collection tools. It uses Ubuntu, Stewardship Theory, and the United Nations’ “leaving no one behind” mantra as theoretical frameworks to showcase how diaspora philanthropy can aid in bridging the resource gap in rural infrastructure development. The paper highlights the rural projects that have received support from diaspora communities in Zimbabwe. Additionally, the paper exposes the institutional, legal and policy frameworks enabling diaspora philanthropic activities in Zimbabwe to maximise their potential impact on rural communities. It concludes that diaspora philanthropy contributes to sustainable rural infrastructure development. The paper recommends reviewing the Zimbabwe diaspora policy and enacting enabling legislation to provide clear guidelines for enabling frameworks for diaspora philanthropic activities.