Decolonising Urban Governance: The Persistent Impact of Colonial Legacy on Zimbabwe's Cities

Abstract

The article begins by raising a compelling question: "How does the colonial legacy shape contemporary urban governance practices and  policies in Zimbabwe?" Through a blend of qualitative and archival research, it draws on post-colonial, spatial, dependency, and critical  urban theories to illuminate this issue. The findings reveal that while urban governance in Zimbabwe has evolved since independence,  the shadows of colonial rule continue to cast a long influence over its landscapes and social fabric. Even as Zimbabwe purportedly adopts  several bold initiatives aimed at dismantling these colonial remnants, the article emphasises that the path to decolonisation is fraught  with challenges—persistent resistance from traditional governance structures, a profit-first mindset overshadowing community needs,  entrenched poverty, widespread mistrust, and a sprawling informal economy that could complicate progress made so far. Ultimately, the  analysis emphasises that decolonising urban governance in Zimbabwe is not just a journey but a complex undertaking that demands  inclusive strategies, community empowerment, and sustainable development, all while grappling with the enduring legacies of  colonialism.