Fending for Ourselves: Youth in Zimbabwe, 1980-2020

by Rory Pilossof (Editor)

This volume brings together 14 chapters that examine youth experiences in Zimbabwe between 1980 and 2020, during the first 40 years of the country’s independence. Researchers working in education, sociology, and other areas in Zimbabwe, Europe, the US, and South Africa discuss youth experiences in relation to education, work and employment, urban life, the informal economy, gender relations, and political activity, including how the ideas, experiences, and reactions of different generations to these social, political, and economic contexts have changed over time. Distributed by African Books Collective. Annotation ©2022 Ringgold, Inc., Portland, OR (protoview.com)

264 pages, Paperback

Published October 8, 2021

About the author

Dr Rory Pilossof is a historian of southern Africa based at the International Studies Group, University of the Free State, South Africa. His main research interests are the end of empire, labour and land in Zimbabwe and neighbouring countries.

Reviews

[Tinomutenda Mpunganyi · Rating 5 out of 5]

"Fending for Ourselves: Youth in Zimbabwe, 1980-2020" is a compelling and insightful book that chronicles the experiences of Zimbabwean youth over the past four decades. The book, edited by Rory Pilossof, brings together a diverse range of perspectives from scholars and activists, offering a nuanced understanding of the challenges and triumphs faced by young people in Zimbabwe.

The book's strength lies in its ability to weave together historical and political contexts. The authors deftly capture the resilience and determination of Zimbabwean youth, who have navigated a complex and often tumultuous landscape. They highlight how young people have adapted, innovated, and resisted in the face of economic hardship, political repression, and social marginalization.

One of the book's most compelling aspects is its examination of the diverse experiences of Zimbabwean youth. The authors move beyond simplistic generalizations to show how young people's lives are shaped by gender, class, ethnicity, and location. They also explore how youth have engaged in political activism, cultural expression, and entrepreneurial endeavours, demonstrating their agency and potential to shape Zimbabwe's future.

For young Zimbabweans, "Fending for Ourselves" is more than just a book; it is a mirror reflecting their collective experiences and aspirations. The book provides a sense of solidarity and shared purpose, reminding young people that they are not alone in their struggles and that they have the power to make a difference.

The book's impact extends beyond Zimbabwe, offering valuable insights for anyone interested in understanding the challenges and opportunities facing young people in Africa and worldwide. It is a testament to the resilience of the human spirit and the power of education to empower and transform lives.