The conflict between tradition and modernity : the histoy of the relationship between the state and traditional leaders Gutu District, Zimbabwe from 1960-2010

Abstract

The study investigates the relationship between traditional leadership and the local government in the theoretical framework of the conflict between tradition and modernity. The study examines the relationship between two institutions which cannot be merged, but at the same time cannot be thrown away. As a case study, the study seeks to investigate the relationship between the state and traditional leadership in Gutu District, Zimbabwe. The District is found in Masvingo Province and it is predominantly rural. As such, traditional institutions are still influential or intact. Qualitative research methodology will be employed to gather data of the stakeholders and establish the causes and nature of the conflict between traditional institutions and modern forms of governance. The research will contribute to African Studies discourse, especially on the nexus between tr_adition and modernity in understanding issues of governance and management of communal areas. It is hoped that this will provide some insights in addressing some of the pressing problems which retard rural development. On the whole, this work posits that traditional authority and modern forms of governance are parallel and there is a need for engagement in serving the communal areas in the best interests of development and poverty alleviation.