Role of Political Leadership and Governance in the Reintegration of War Veterans: Challenges and Their Implications for Zimbabwe

The research sought to assess the reintegration of war veterans into the society, the challenges and their implications. In trying to find solutions to the research problem, the researcher examined the role of political leadership and governance in the handling of the integration of war veterans in Zimbabwe and identified reintegration models that can be undertaken to ensure that the war veteran’s grievances are holistically met and accommodated by the ordinary community members in Zimbabwe. The research method used was qualitative approach and the data was generated through the use of face-to-face interviews, focus group discussions and the researcher as a tool with a sample of eight participants which consisted war veterans. The findings were presented in narrative form; thematic analysis was used through interpretive phenomenological analysis (IPA). Lack of participation had negative consequences for the specific programme objectives, and also for the wider peacebuilding project to which DDR is meant to contribute. Inaccurate information, lack of consultation, failures in programme delivery, and misappropriation of funds all of which were closely linked to the lower rungs of the ladder of participation had negative consequences for the rebuilding of social capital and identification with the new system of governance and accountability which is part of the countries’ transition from armed conflict to peace. The research concluded that failure to recognize the political dimension adequately at the policy level has also meant that the issue has been poorly dealt with at the local level by implementers of reintegration programs. reintegration was not properly conducted in Zimbabwe and war veterans would remain isolated from society if no proper measures are taken. The research suggests it was the government’s responsibility to implement a framework for reintegration of war veterans and war victims through reconstruction, rehabilitation, resettlement, empowerment and social security programmes.