Exploring the Uncharted Territory of Devolution in Zimbabwe

Authors

  • Jephias Mapuva Bindura University, Zimbabwe
  • George P Miti Africa University Mutare

DOI:

https://doi.org/10.25159/2663-6522/4932

Keywords:

devolution, decentralisation, local governance, effectiveness, efficiency, accountability

Abstract

Devolution, which was incorporated into the Constitution of Zimbabwe through section 264, is a new phenomenon in Zimbabwe. This incorporation came about because of the need for participatory governance and the devolution of power away from the centre. Over the years, local governance has been informed by a plethora of pieces of legislation that do not provide an enabling environment for citizen participation, giving Zimbabwe’s local government a chequered history that excludes citizens from participating in public affairs that affect their lives. An analysis of section 264 of the Constitution revealed that devolution has the propensity to enhance transparency, efficiency and effectiveness as well as the fulfilment of central government’s responsibilities at provincial and local levels. This article argues that the belated implementation of the devolution of power has delayed improved service delivery, effectiveness, efficiency and accountability within local governance. This article further seeks to explain how the implementation of section 264 of the Constitution can bring about good local governance.

Author Biographies

Jephias Mapuva, Bindura University, Zimbabwe

Senior Lecturer in Development Studies, Department of Geography, Bindura University, Zimbabwe

George P Miti, Africa University Mutare

Lecturer at Africa University

College of Business, Peace Leadership and Governance

Mutare

Zimbabwe

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Published

2019-08-08

How to Cite

Mapuva, Jephias, and George P Miti. 2019. “Exploring the Uncharted Territory of Devolution in Zimbabwe”. Africanus: Journal of Development Studies 49 (1):18 pages. https://doi.org/10.25159/2663-6522/4932.

Issue

Section

Articles
Received 2018-10-17
Accepted 2019-01-31
Published 2019-08-08