An Analysis of the Contributions of Taboo System to Peace among Shona Communities in Zimbabwe

Abstract

People's attitudes and behaviour are often influenced by tradition, religion and modernity. The taboo system among the Shona communities is a typical example of how tradition over the years has played a critical role in shaping individual and group behaviour. This paper is based on insiders' participant observations and literature sources. Results showed that the problem of electoral violence calls for more than just efforts by government to enforce law and order to address this menace but an appeal to the taboo system which is not based on law enforcement agents but respect for the in-born humanitarian seed. In addition, the findings indicate that the emergence of electoral violence in the 2008's harmonized elections in Zimbabwe indicates a shift from what Shona society historically accepted as normal. Also it came out clear that electoral violence is symptomatic of the disregard of the taboo system by modern Shona communities making them ease prey to political manipulation by some political elites. The study recommended that, in this age where violence is seemingly becoming humanity's second nature, the taboo system has the potential to effectively promote and sustain peace among the Shona communities in Zimbabwe.