Zimbabwe’s transition to a devolved system of government: Critical factors for success

Abstract

Background: The national development roadmap of the Zimbabwean government emphasises devolution as a fundamental plank in alleviating poverty and regional inequalities. However, the government is grappling with the transition to a devolved government system.Aim: This article aimed to explore the critical success factors for guiding the devolution process in Zimbabwe.Setting: The research is descriptive in nature and provides a detailed analysis of the devolution processes in Zimbabwe.Methods: The article is theoretical, and considered a qualitative, descriptive research approach.Results: The article argues that devolution has the potential to achieve the intended benefits if implementation fundamentals are in place.Conclusion: The article provides the political, fiscal, legislative, and institutional reforms critical for the successful implementation of devolution. These reforms are complementary and mutually reinforcing in facilitating the transition to a devolved government system.