African Studies Centre Research Seminars: ‘No Longer the Sunshine City’: Economic Informalisation and the Crisis of Urban Modernity in Harare, Zimbabwe

Thursday 14 October, 3:30pm
Pavilion Room, St Antony's College

Conveners: Dr Peter Brooke and Dr Rachel Taylor

Speaker: Dr. Kristina Pikovskaia, University of Oxford

 

pikovskaia image

 

Paper abstract:

 

This paper considers the ‘great divide’ that emerged between the modernist mindset and the survivalist reality due to the massive economic informalisation in urban Zimbabwe from the late 1990s. As the lives of many Zimbabweans shifted to the ‘survival mode’ due to harsh economic conditions, previous expectations of a modern urban lifestyle were no longer achievable, but the urban modernity framework was still sustained by individuals, politicians, and mass media. This disconnect resulted in three crises: of the vision of the future as many people started seeing the future of Zimbabwe in the past; of urban development as people supported the narrative of Harare no longer being the Sunshine City; and of the notion of work with many not seeing informal economic activities as proper work.

Join the Teams meeting here.

 

 

We have a limited number of seats due to Covid-regulations and only members of the University may attend in person. As a courtesy to others please wear a mask. Unfortunately we will not be able to admit anyone once capacity has been reached. As an alternative the seminar can also be accessed via Teams, where it is also open to members of the public. The Teams meeting details will be provided here ahead of the event.

 

Covid-19 Guidelines for university members attending in person:

  • St Antony's ask that attendees take a lateral flow test on the morning of the event. If positive, stay at home
  • Stay home if you feel unwell with symptoms of COVID-19, a member of your household is self-isolating, or if you are in quarantine
  • Wear a face covering where indicated, unless exempt
  • Be considerate of other people’s space
  • Wash your hands regularly with soap or sanitiser
  • You are asked to use the official NHS QR code posters displayed throughout the College site