Gwinyai Edwin 2014 Peacebuilding Through Sustainable Livelihood Project: A Case Study of Donor Funded Projects in Mutasa District, Zimbabwe

Abstract

This study sought to assess the importance of sustainable livelihoods to the success of peacebuilding. The study was conducted at Mutasa district. It examined the projects being implemented by NGOs with a view to assess their contribution to peacebuilding and development. The findings revealed that sustainable livelihoods projects have significantly contributed to peacebuilding. They improve the source of income for those who involved in such projects and promote peacebuilding and community development. The income generated from the livelihoods projects has been used to pay school fees, health facilities, buy assets, food and invested in other projects. Thus, the study chronicles the relevance and importance of sustainable livelihoods in peacebuilding processes. As such, this study begins by highlighting the background of conflicts, economic deterioration and effects of environmental shocks that have impacted negatively on livelihoods in Zimbabwe. The study also reflects on the sustainable development theory and integrated model of peace building by Lederach, so as to substantiate the claims provided and illuminate on the relevance and importance of peacebuilding through sustainable livelihoods projects.