Towards a Population Policy for Zimbabwe-Rhodesia

In: African affairs: the journal of the Royal African Society, Band 79, Heft 314, S. 95-114

Abstract

A historical review of policies that affected the structure & distribution of population during Rhodesia's development as a white man's country provides a perspective for an analysis of current population problems, leading to discussion of policy & strategy for Zimbabwe whereby these fundamental problems might be alleviated or resolved. Attention is focused on: the very formal structure of Rhodesia's deeply divided society & on relationships between its interdependent but rival components; on problems created by rapid population growth, especially in Ru areas where excessive pressures on mediocre resources create a conservation hazard & preclude economic progress; & on the failure to integrate Ru & Ur policies with respect to population. Five basic objectives are identified: (1) to raise the standard of living & quality of life of society as a whole; (2) to seek peace & understanding throughout society; (3) to conserve & enhance the nation's natural heritage; (4) to reduce the rate of population growth; & (5) to improve the spatial distribution of population in relation to natural & social resources & development prospects. Policy options & several specific measures toward these ends are discussed in the context of Zimbabwe's independence. 4 Figures. AA.