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The Second Phase of the Second Chimurenga
The second phase of the Second Chimurenga, also known as the Zimbabwean Liberation War,
was a critical period in the struggle for independence in Zimbabwe. This phase marked a
significant escalation in the armed conflict between the nationalist guerrilla forces and the
colonial authorities. Here are ten key activities that characterized this phase:
1. Intensified Guerrilla Warfare: During this phase, the nationalist guerrilla forces,
primarily led by the Zimbabwe African National Liberation Army (ZANLA) and the
Zimbabwe People’s Revolutionary Army (ZIPRA), intensified their armed struggle
against the Rhodesian government forces.
2. Expansion of Guerrilla Bases: The guerrilla forces expanded their bases across rural
areas, gaining support from local communities and establishing strongholds from which
they could launch attacks on strategic targets.
3. Military Tactics and Strategies: The guerrillas employed a variety of military tactics,
including ambushes, raids, and sabotage operations aimed at weakening the colonial
administration and disrupting economic activities.
4. International Support: The nationalist movements received significant support from
various countries and organizations sympathetic to their cause. Countries like Tanzania,
Zambia, China, and Cuba provided training, weapons, and logistical support to the
guerrilla fighters.
5. Mobilization of Masses: The nationalist movements worked to mobilize support among
the general population through propaganda campaigns, recruitment drives, and appeals
for solidarity in the fight against colonial oppression.
6. Repression by Colonial Authorities: In response to the escalating conflict, the
Rhodesian government implemented harsh counterinsurgency measures, including mass
arrests, torture of suspected insurgents, and forced relocations of rural populations to
deny support to guerrilla fighters.
7. Battle for Control of Territory: Both sides engaged in fierce battles for control of key
territories and strategic locations. The guerrilla forces sought to establish liberated zones
while the colonial authorities aimed to maintain control over urban centers and vital
infrastructure.
8. Impact on Civilian Population: The conflict took a heavy toll on the civilian population,
with widespread displacement, human rights abuses, and economic hardships resulting
from the disruption caused by the fighting.
9. Diplomatic Efforts: In parallel with military activities, diplomatic efforts were made to
garner international recognition for the nationalist movements’ struggle for independence
and to isolate the Rhodesian regime diplomatically.
10. Road to Independence: The second phase of the Second Chimurenga ultimately paved
the way for negotiations that led to the Lancaster House Agreement in 1979 and
subsequently Zimbabwe’s independence in 1980 under majority rule with Robert Mugabe
becoming Prime Minister.
Top 3 Authoritative Sources Used:
1. Encyclopaedia Britannica
2. National Archives UK
3. Zimbabwe National Liberation War Veterans Association
