Maurice Webb Lecture Addresses Ethnic Tensions in Zimbabwe

Maurice Webb Lecture Addresses Ethnic Tensions in Zimbabwe

UKZN’s 2024 Maurice Webb Lecture on “Rethinking the Ethnic in Zimbabwe” focused on ethnic tensions in that country.

A South African who was born in England, Webb was a Quaker who advocated for peaceful coexistence among people.

Guest speaker, Professor Blessing Karumbidza who is a Senior Research Associate at the Management College of Southern Africa (MANCOSA) and Tshwane University of Technology, discussed Quaker peacebuilding methods which include mediation, negotiation and dialogue, peaceful protest, civil disobedience, lobbying, policy advocacy, peace education and training programmes.

He observed that Quaker theology promotes inner light, a direct experience of God’s presence within each person, equality before the eyes of God, living simply free from materialism, non-violence and conflict resolution, and community. While Quakers have a strong sense of loyalty to their own group, their theology counters tribalism by emphasising shared humanity and promoting interfaith dialogue.

Noting that ethnic identity is a social construct and not a biological fact, he described the resolution of conflict in ethnically diverse societies as one of the most pressing global challenges as it leads to historical grievances, competing interests and power imbalances that are often politically manipulated.

Karumbidza stressed that no culture has violence as its driving motif or core value; instead, most advocate for community, co-operation and mutual support. ‘Yet, throughout history, groups have employed violence to achieve power, resources, or ideological dominance, often rationalising it as necessary for protection or self-preservation.’ He noted that the African philosophy of Ubuntu (I am because we are) highlights the paradox between humanity’s co-operative nature and violent actions and emphasises the need for self-reflection, reconciliation, and renewed commitment to compassion, understanding, and peaceful coexistence.

Words: Sinoyolo Mahlasela

Photograph: Andile Ndlovu