Transformational Leadership through Indigenous Systems: Unlocking the Harurwa Value Chain for Economic Growth and Innovation in Bikita District.

Abstract

This study explores how transformational leadership, when rooted in indigenous systems, can unlock the economic and innovative potential of the harurwa (edible stinkbug) value chain in Bikita District under Masvingo Province, Zimbabwe. The harurwa, a culturally significant delicacy with nutritional and economic value, has traditionally been harvested and consumed within local communities but remains underutilized in broader market value chains. Drawing on the principles of transformational leadership vision, inclusivity, capacity-building, and innovation the paper examines how community leaders, traditional institutions, and local entrepreneurs can work together to enhance production, processing, and commercialization of harurwa. The research employed a qualitative case study design to explore how transformational leadership within indigenous knowledge system s(IKS) can unlock the harurwa value chain for economic growth and innovation in Bikita District. Anchored in a constructivist paradigm, it recognized the co-creation of knowledge through interaction between the researcher and participants who value indigenous knowledge systems.  Data was collected through semi-structured interviews with traditional leaders, local entrepreneurs, and government officials, focus group discussions with harvesters and traders, and participant observation during the harvesting season, supplemented by secondary data analysis. The targeted population included individuals knowledgeable about harurwa harvesting, leadership structures, and value chain dynamics, comprising traditional leaders, harvesters, traders, youth, and relevant officials. A total of forty (40) participants were selected using purposive sampling and refined through snowball sampling to ensure diverse representation and access to knowledgeable informants.  The integration of indigenous knowledge with modern value chain management provides opportunities for employment creation, food security, and rural industrialization. The findings suggest that embracing indigenous governance structures, promoting collective ownership, and fostering innovation-driven practices can position harurwa not only as a local resource but also as a strategic contributor to national economic growth. The paper argues that a hybrid leadership model that respects cultural heritage while driving market-oriented innovation can transform the livelihoods of Bikita residents and serve as a blueprint for other indigenous resource-based economies in Africa.