daniel chigunwe
Taurai Kandishaya
Herald Correspondent
In recent online discussions, a troubling trend has emerged: some individuals have begun to romanticise Rhodesia as a “golden age” of prosperity.
As a committed member of ZANU PF, it is critical to address this issue, not only to correct historical inaccuracies, but also to protect the legacy of our nation’s journey towards liberation and independence.
This article will provide a factual analysis of why Rhodesia should never be romanticised, challenging the distorted narrative that suggests Rhodesia was a period of prosperity.
The claim that Rhodesia was on a positive developmental trajectory is not only misleading, but also dangerous. A closer examination of Rhodesia’s economic and social systems reveals that, had it persisted, the prospects for black Zimbabweans would have been devastating, if not fatal.
This idealisation of Rhodesia is not merely a nostalgic reflection of the past, it poses a significant threat to our collective future.
The glorification of Rhodesia, particularly by some black Zimbabweans, reflects a disturbing disconnection from the painful and brutal realities of the colonial experience.
It ignores the fact that the colonial regime exploited, impoverished, and dehumanised our people to such an extent that they were forced to take up arms, endure a brutal war, and leave their homes to fight from the bush.
It is inconceivable that, had there been any genuine prospects for development, democracy, and human rights, our people would have chosen the arduous path of war.
The absence of any semblance of prosperity or justice during this period underscores why romanticising Rhodesia is not just inaccurate but a betrayal of the sacrifices made for liberation.
Addressing these historical facts is especially important for the youth, who may be new to politics and are being targeted by our erstwhile enemies.
These enemies, operating through the opposition, aim to reverse the gains of the liberation struggle. To counter this misinformation, it is essential to recount the truths of our past, present, and future so that the youth can understand the reality of what Zimbabwe represents and what is at stake.
This issue must also be understood within the broader context of growing global far-right movements, which seek to reverse the progress made by liberation movements worldwide.
There is a resurgence of Cold War-era perspectives, particularly in the Western world, which have been re-purposed to guide foreign policy.
This has manifested in attacks on ruling governments, often under the guise of facilitating development, but in reality, serving to impose systems more aligned with neoliberal and imperialist interests.
The global trend of undermining liberation movements is not coincidental. Movements like ZANU PF, with a proud history of fighting imperialism, are targeted because they challenge these interests.
What we are witnessing today, with the glorification of Rhodesia, is part of a broader effort to undermine liberation movements.
The nostalgia for Rhodesia aligns with efforts to delegitimise the sacrifices and successes of the liberation struggle.
It is deeply concerning to see former colonisers advocate for a return to colonialism under the pretext of development. This rhetoric, eerily reminiscent of the “civilising mission” narrative used to justify colonialism in the past, should alarm anyone concerned about the future of humanity.
One of the most pervasive and dangerous myths perpetuated by this nostalgia is the idea that Rhodesia was a period of economic prosperity. Proponents of this view claim that Rhodesia was on a growth trajectory, conveniently ignoring the systemic exclusion, exploitation, and denial of rights that defined the colonial period.
The so-called prosperity was reserved for a small minority, built upon the oppression of the black majority.
Any economic growth during the Rhodesian era was exclusive and unequal, benefiting only a select few. This myth not only distorts reality, but also disrespects the sacrifices of our liberation heroes.
Comparing Rhodesia’s economic management to post-independence Zimbabwe requires an understanding of the vastly different realities.
While Rhodesia may have seen some isolated instances of economic growth, these were designed to serve colonial interests, not the well-being of the majority.
Infrastructure projects like Lake Kariba, hospitals, and railways were not built to benefit the black majority. Instead, they facilitated resource extraction and served white commercial interests. The lack of investment in black communities, such as the absence of electricity and roads in rural areas, demonstrates that Rhodesian development was rooted in exploitation, not progress.
By contrast, post-independence Zimbabwe has made significant efforts to address these historical inequities. Initiatives like land reform, command agriculture, road construction, and investments in education and youth development represent a commitment to correcting past injustices and building a more equitable society.
These efforts highlight the government’s dedication to rebuilding the nation and ensuring a fair distribution of resources.
In summary, the romanticisation of Rhodesia is a dangerous distortion of history and a threat to the progress we have achieved. It dismisses the harsh realities of the past, undermines the sacrifices of our liberation heroes, and jeopardizes the future we are building.
As Zimbabweans, we must reject this nostalgic view and continue educating future generations about the true cost of our freedom.
To do otherwise risks erasing the hard-won achievements of our liberation struggle and jeopardising the dignity, equality, and justice we strive to uphold.
Cde Taurai Kandishaya is the Deputy National Political Commissar ZANU PF Youth League
Online Reporter
