NOT every Zimbabwean in the diaspora is a national enemy, we all love Zimbabwe with all our hearts.
The British Empire is often regarded as the quintessential example of colonial expansion, influencing vast regions of the world from the Americas to Asia and Africa.
While this is widely attributed to military conquest, political manoeuvering and economic exploitation, an often overlooked aspect of British imperial success lies in its strategic use of the diaspora.
British citizens, explorers, traders, missionaries and settlers were instrumental in spreading British culture, governance and economic interests globally.
They played a crucial role not only in establishing colonies, but in maintaining the influence of Britain across continents long after formal colonial rule ended.
Some might argue that Britain’s global dominance represents the highest expression of colonialism, exploiting resources and people for the benefit of the Crown.
However, another perspective suggests that Britain’s global reach was facilitated by the proactive and strategic mobilisation of its diaspora, who became conduits of British influence.
This model holds valuable lessons for countries like Zimbabwe, which have significant diasporic communities scattered around the globe.
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Rather than viewing the diaspora merely as expatriates or remittance senders, the Zimbabwean government should consider harnessing its diasporas as critical resources for national development, much like the British did during their imperial expansion.
Britain’s global dominance was not solely a result of its military might or economic power.
The strategic deployment of British citizens abroad created networks of influence that allowed the empire to extend its reach well beyond its borders.
Through settler communities, trading companies and missionaries, the British diaspora embedded British cultural values, economic practices and political ideologies in regions far from the British Isles.
This network was not just a by-product of colonialism; it was a critical tool in sustaining Britain’s global influence.
Consider the British East India Company, which began as a trading venture, but evolved into a governing body with immense power over India.
The company was staffed largely by Britons who settled in India, learned the local languages and integrated with the local elite, all while advancing British interests.
Similarly, British settlers in countries like Australia, Canada and South Africa were instrumental in shaping local governance, economic systems and cultural practices in ways that mirrored those of Britain.
In these cases, the British diaspora acted as both a bridge and a buffer, ensuring that British interests were safeguarded even as the empire expanded.
This approach was not limited to the formal colonial era.
Even after decolonisation, the British diaspora continued to exert cultural and economic influence through education, business and international organisations.
The so-called “British model” of education, legal systems and governance continues to be replicated in former colonies, partly due to the presence and influence of the British diaspora.
Zimbabwe, like many African countries, has a large diaspora, with estimates ranging from three to five million Zimbabweans living abroad, mainly in countries such as South Africa, the United Kingdom, the United States, Canada and Australia.
This diaspora consists of professionals, entrepreneurs, academics and skilled labourers who have sought opportunities abroad due to political and economic challenges at home.
The Zimbabwean government has primarily focused on encouraging remittances from the diaspora, which contribute significantly to the economy.
However, remittances alone represent a narrow understanding of what the diaspora can offer.
By thinking beyond financial contributions, Zimbabwe can leverage on its diaspora in ways that align with national development goals, much as Britain did during its imperial peak.
The Zimbabwean diaspora includes a substantial number of professionals in various fields, from healthcare and education to finance and technology.
These individuals possess skills and knowledge acquired in advanced economies, making them valuable assets for national development.
The Zimbabwean government could establish programmes that facilitate the return of skilled professionals, either permanently or temporarily, to train local professionals and contribute to key sectors.
Initiatives like short-term fellowships, sabbaticals and consultancy roles could help bridge the skills gap in critical areas such as medicine, engineering and education.
Countries such as India and China have successfully implemented such programmes, leading to a reverse brain drain that has bolstered their economies.
For instance, China’s “Thousand Talents Plan” has attracted thousands of highly-skilled individuals back to the country, driving innovation and growth.
Zimbabwe can adopt a similar model, tailored to its unique socio-economic context, to harness the expertise of its diaspora.
Beyond remittances, the Zimbabwean diaspora can be a source of direct investment in local businesses and infrastructural projects.
Diasporas often have the capital, networks and experience needed to drive entrepreneurship and innovation.
The government can create favourable policies such as tax incentives, simplified business registration processes and land access to attract diaspora investments.
Rwanda provides an example of how this can be done effectively.
The Rwandan government actively encourages diaspora investment through initiatives like the Rwanda Diaspora Investment Fund, which pools resources from Rwandans abroad to invest in local businesses and developmental projects.
Similar strategies could be employed in Zimbabwe, encouraging diasporas to invest in sectors like agriculture, renewable energy and technology, which are vital for the country’s growth.
The Zimbabwean diaspora, especially those in influential positions abroad, can be valuable diplomatic assets.
They can help shape international perceptions of Zimbabwe, advocate for favourable policies and even serve as intermediaries in international negotiations.
The government can establish formal channels of communication with its diaspora to co-ordinate efforts in lobbying for Zimbabwe’s interests globally.
Many countries, including Israel and Ireland, have effectively used their diaspora for diplomatic purposes.
Israel’s success in influencing US foreign policy, for example, is partly due to the strength and organisation of the Jewish diaspora in America.
By engaging its diaspora strategically, Zimbabwe can enhance its international standing and ensure its voice is heard in global forums.
Just as the British used their diaspora to spread their culture and values, Zimbabwe can tap into its diaspora to promote its cultural heritage abroad.
Diasporas can be cultural ambassadors, showcasing Zimbabwean art, music, cuisine and traditions to a global audience.
This can enhance Zimbabwe’s soft power, attracting tourism, forging cultural exchanges and building a positive national brand.
Nigeria has done this successfully through its diaspora, which has popularised Nollywood films, Afrobeats music and Nigerian fashion worldwide.
This cultural influence has not only boosted Nigeria’s global image, but has also opened new markets for Nigerian products and services.
Zimbabwe can similarly leverage its rich cultural heritage to build a global identity that resonates beyond its borders.
While the potential benefits of leveraging the diaspora are clear, several challenges need to be addressed to make this vision a reality.
One of the primary obstacles is the strained relationship between the Zimbabwean government and its diaspora, which has been exacerbated by political divisions and mistrust.
Many diasporas left Zimbabwe due to political repression or economic instability and they remain sceptical of government initiatives.
Rebuilding trust is essential, and this requires genuine engagement, transparency and the establishment of mechanisms that ensure the diaspora’s voices are heard in national decision-making.
The Zimbabwean government must create an enabling environment that encourages diaspora engagement.
This includes removing legal barriers that diasporas face in investing or returning to Zimbabwe.
Dual citizenship, for instance, has been a contentious issue, but recent legal reforms allowing dual citizenship are a positive step forward.
Further policy measures, such as voting rights for diasporas and dedicated government agencies or ministries focused on diaspora affairs, can signal the government’s commitment to inclusivity and partnership.
Corruption and bureaucratic inefficiencies are major deterrents for diaspora engagement.
The government must prioritise anti-corruption measures and streamline bureaucratic processes to make it easier for diasporas to invest, return, or engage in development initiatives.
Transparent and accountable governance is key in restoring confidence and attracting meaningful diaspora contributions.
The government should develop attractive incentive structures for diasporas willing to contribute their time, skills and resources.
This could include offering tax breaks, access to land, or special business grants for diaspora-led initiatives.
Additionally, programmes that recognise and reward diasporas who make significant contributions, such as national awards or honorary titles, can serve as motivators.
Establishing formal networks and platforms for diaspora engagement is essential.
These networks can facilitate knowledge exchange, business partnerships, and collective action.
The government can collaborate with existing diaspora organisations to create a global Zimbabwean network that connects professionals, entrepreneurs and academics with opportunities in Zimbabwe.
Regular diaspora conferences, online forums and networking events can help keep the diaspora engaged and informed about developments at home.
The British Empire’s success in using its diaspora to extend its influence globally provides valuable lessons for Zimbabwe.
While the contexts are different, the underlying principle of leveraging human capital, networks, and influence remains relevant.
For Zimbabwe, the diaspora represents not just a source of remittances, but a wellspring of expertise, investment and global connections that can accelerate national development.
To fully harness the potential of its diaspora, Zimbabwe must adopt a long-term, strategic approach that builds trust, creates opportunities and aligns diaspora engagement with national development goals.
This involves moving beyond short-term remittance-focused policies to a comprehensive framework that integrates the diaspora into Zimbabwe’s economic, social and political fabric.
In this new vision, the Zimbabwean diaspora is not seen merely as expatriates but as key stakeholders in the nation’s future.
By embracing this perspective, Zimbabwe can unlock new pathways for growth and prosperity, drawing on the strength of its global community.
