They desired to control the economy of Zimbabwe to maximize profits. The indigenous/local political institutions based on the Induna system had been destroyed during the British occupation of Zimbabwe.
The reasons for the adoption of Direct rule in Zimbabwe by the British
The British decided to use the system of Direct Rule in Zimbabwe because:
- They wanted to acquire full control of the economy and exploit the resources such as minerals and farmland for their own benefit.
- The traditional system of administration and indigenous political institutions such as the Indunas had been disrupted or destroyed during the British conquest of Zimbabwe.
- They wanted to ensure complete control over the African communities as a way of eliminating resistance.
- The British South Africa Company officials and the settlers who were familiar with the British system of administration helped to put in place the required administrative structures. There wasn’t the problem of lack of manpower.
- The British South Africa Company had enough funds to pay the administrators.
- The 1896-1897 Chimurenga uprising eroded British confidence in using traditional chiefs in the administration of the colony.
What was the policy of direct rule in Zimbabwe?
Direct Rule in Zimbabwe
Direct Rule was a system that involved the use of European administrators in all the units of administration from the highest to the lowest. It was used in colonies with a large white population and in areas that faced constant revolts against European colonial rule.
What was the effect of direct rule in Zimbabwe?
It led to land alienation resulting in the displacement of Africans. The African traditional rulers lost their independence. Africans had limited rights since the day-to-day running was in the hands of the British without much reference to African interests. Africans were subjected to heavy taxation.
What were the 5 effects of direct rule in Zimbabwe?
Results of direct rule in Zimbabwe Led to loss of independence Traditional leaders lost their positions Led to massive land alienation Mining rights were taken over by British Africans were subjected to forced labour The Africans were greatly discriminated They (Africans) faced the torture and brutality of the British.
Why was direct rule used in Zimbabwe?
They desired to control the economy of Zimbabwe to maximize profits. The indigenous/local political institutions based on Induna system had been destroyed during the British occupation of Zimbabwe.