Journal of Advocacy, Research and Education

184-191

Authors: Elmond Bandauko, Gladys Mandisvika

This paper seeks to examine the criminalisation of informal sector operations in Harare. The responsible authorities have often viewed the informal sector as being atomistic to the formal economy, a development which has led to the harassment, arrests of informal sector operators in Harare. This phenomenon raises many questions which include, whose city is it anyway? Do informal sector workers have the right to the city? To answer some of these questions, the paper makes use of secondary sources of data such as newspapers, journal articles, magazines, research reports among others. The Government and local authorities should view the informal sector as an integral part of the urban economic system and should thus accommodate it for socially just cities to be created.

198-209

Authors: Gladys Mandisvika

The study assessed the role and importance of Local Economic Development as a means of enhancing urban development paying particular attention to the regulators of Local Economic Development in Harare. Local Economic Development is a process which encourages partners from the community, public sector, private sector and non-governmental sectors to work collectively to create better conditions for economic growth and employment generation with the aim of improving the locality economic future and the quality of life for all citizens. The study was premised on the theory of competitive advantage which puts up that prosperity and wealth creation is determined by microeconomic factors and that prosperity means increasing the standards of living for the local people and ultimately their quality of life. Primary data for the research was gathered through observation and key informant interviews. Data on key stakeholders understanding on the concept of Local Economic Development, how it is being practised and how the current regulatory framework enhance or impinge on local people’s participation in Local Economic Development was collected. Secondary data was also collected from Harare’s 2014 budget, census and existing forward plans. The study revealed that the practice of Local Economic Development in Harare is biased towards the setting aside of land zoned for industrial and commercial uses and implementation of development control parameters. Small to Medium Enterprises and the informal sector have also been identified as the major forms of Local Economic Development that citizens are involved in. However, the study revealed that proper policy frameworks which guide practice of Local Economic Development initiatives were missing.

223-230

Authors: Michael Fuseini Wandusim

All across the world there is a growing interest in interfaith activities especially the one between Christians and Muslims. It has been argued that the nature of the relationship between these two faiths could determine the peace of the world in the future. This essay therefore gives a consideration to the youth of these faiths and contends for a recognition and involvement of these young people in interreligious relations. This contention finds credence in the light of current religious extremist activities especially from the Muslim quarters. These groups do not “view young people as an afterthought." This essay to some extent reflects my personal experience as a young person growing up in a Muslim-Christian family: my father being a Muslim and my mother and siblings being Christians; it also draws data from research I am currently conducting on youth and interfaith dialogue.