Cultural Practices and Human Rights: The Non-reporting of Rape Cases in the Lupane Rural District of Zimbabwe

While the non-reporting of rape is problematic internationally, it is particularly worrisome in the Lupane rural district of Zimbabwe. Therefore, this study was designed to understand the reasons behind non-reporting. Data was collected using narrative unstructured interviews with 44 purposively selected participants, consisting of 30 villagers and their 14 village heads. Three non-government organisations (NGO) registered as service organisations for the district formed part of the sample. The leave to interview Zimbabwe Republic Police (ZRP) personnel was sought, and the Commissioner-General of ZRP declined to provide gatekeeper permission. Thematic data analysis identified key themes and their relationships and meanings. New conversations are recommended for village communities to initiate culturally sensitive awareness and improve the reporting of rape.