Ubuntu Values in Domestic Violence Interventions in Zimbabwe

Domestic violence remains a persistent social and public health challenge in Zimbabwe, where formal reporting mechanisms often conflict with deep-rooted communal cultural values. Ubuntu, the sub-Saharan philosophy of shared humanity and interconnectedness, provides a restorative framework that prioritises healing, collective responsibility, and the repair of ruptured relationships. This qualitative study examined how Ubuntu values can be integrated into domestic violence reporting and alleviation initiatives. Using purposive sampling, 24 participants were recruited from five key groups: social workers, traditional chiefs, community members, Victim Friendly Unit police officers, and Friendship Bench lay counsellors. Data were collected through focus group discussions and in-depth interviews and analysed using thematic analysis. Three objectives guided the inquiry: to explore perceived causes of domestic violence, to examine its effects on survivors and communities, and to investigate measures to embed Ubuntu into existing interventions. Findings revealed that patriarchal norms, economic strain, and substance abuse are primary drivers of violence. Effects included severe psychological distress, family disintegration, and community stigma. Participants proposed three Ubuntu-centred measures: the revitalisation of restorative family dialogues (inkundla), the training of traditional leaders and police in Ubuntuconsistent practices, and the expansion of community-based psychosocial support circles. The discussion contends that Ubuntu can transform reporting from a punitive act that isolates individuals into a communal pathway for accountability and restoration. The study concludes that policy harmonisation, capacity building, and the scaling of Ubuntu-inspired interventions hold significant promise for culturally congruent domestic violence work in Zimbabwe. Recommendations are directed at government ministries, service providers, and traditional institutions.