Citation :

Tendai Alexander Kaseke, Gerald Munyoro, Norbert Hosho, 2026. "Historical Memory, Community Identity and Economic Growth in Epworth, Mashonaland East Province, Zimbabwe: Evidence for a Place-Based Development Framework" ESP International Journal of Science, Humanities & Management Studies(ESP-IJSHMS)  Volume 4, Issue 4: 53-65.

Abstract :

Economic development in historically marginalised peri-urban settlements requires approaches that recognise both material constraints and locally embedded social and institutional conditions. This study examined how historical memory, institutional legitimacy and governance, community identity and social capital, and participation and economic activity shape local economic development in Epworth, Zimbabwe, and used the findings to develop a place-based development framework. A pragmatist philosophy and convergent parallel mixed-methods design were adopted. Quantitative data were collected through structured questionnaires from 386 residents, entrepreneurs and community stakeholders, while qualitative evidence was obtained through interviews, focus group discussions, observations and document analysis. Quantitative data were analysed using descriptive and inferential statistics, while qualitative data were analysed thematically and integrated with the quantitative findings. The findings indicate that historical memory is associated with community participation and perceptions of development legitimacy. Institutional fragmentation, insecure land tenure and weak coordination were identified as important constraints on investment, enterprise development and local economic participation. Community identity and social capital were positively associated with participation, although strong internal networks could also create exclusionary effects for newcomers and marginalised groups. Informal enterprises were important livelihood and economic participation mechanisms but remained constrained by limited finance, infrastructure and institutional support. The study contributes a place-based perspective by demonstrating how historical memory, institutional legitimacy, community identity, social capital, participation and economic activity interact in shaping local economic development. A conceptual framework is proposed to guide tenure reform, coordinated governance, infrastructure development, enterprise support, skills development, participatory planning and heritage-based initiatives in Epworth.

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Keywords :

Economic Growth, Historical Memory, Community Identity, Institutional Legitimacy, Social Capital, Informal Economy, Local Economic Development.