Impact of social Media on Peace and Security in Zimbabwe

This article reports part of a larger research project, which investigated the broader effects of social media on peace and security the world over. While social media has had broader effects on development, geopolitics, exposure of corrupt tendencies and opening of democratic space in general, this study focused on its effects on peace and security in Zimbabwe. The study establishes that social media has served as a double-edged sword in that while it promotes social, political and economic development, it also perpetuates some devastating conflicts, which have threatened national peace and security. Using the qualitative approach, the study revealed that social media has had positive and negative effects on the political and social landscape in Zimbabwe. Social media reopens old wounds, which are likely to threaten national peace and security. The study recommends that the state promotes the change of citizen mindset towards the use of social media and to have comprehensive cyber-crime legislation meant to curb the abuse of social media platforms in ways meant to promote peace and security.