The Evolution of State Decentralisation in Zimbabwe
摘要
This chapter evaluates the evolution of StateState decentralisationDecentralisation in ZimbabweZimbabwe process. It traces its historical roots, political context, and contemporary challenges. Whilst the 2013 ConstitutionConstitution formally introduced devolutionDevolution as a governanceGovernance model aimed at promoting local democracy, inclusive development, and responsive service deliveryService delivery, its implementation have been affected by the broader macro-economic environment and party politics. The focus of this analysis is on how the evolving political economyPolitical economy shaped StateState decentralisationDecentralisation. Even today, political interests continue to determine the extent and nature of power distribution between central and subnational governments. Decentralisation in ZimbabweZimbabwe is not just an administrative process but it is entrenched in politics of the day. The StateState has promoted deconcentration and delegation to a greater extent. Decision-making authority, allocation of resources, and responsibilities are still mainly retained by the Centre. This chapter interrogates how the ZimbabweZimbabwe’s unitary StateState structure has functioned and advanced StateState control and bureaucracy. The analysis shows that despite progressive policies and national frameworks such as the DevolutionDevolution and DevolutionDevolution Policy (2020) and National Development Strategy 1 (2021–2025), real progress is constrained by limited fiscalFiscal transfers, inadequate institutional reform, and a political culture that favours centralisationCentralisation. This study offers insight into why constitutional reforms alone are insufficient for achieving decentralised development. It calls for a deeper commitment to political and fiscalFiscal restructuring, stronger local government capacitation, and renewed political will to make devolutionDevolution work for the people of ZimbabweZimbabwe.