A majority of Zimbabweans remain dissatisfied with the performance of both local and central government, citing corruption, economic instability, and lack of job opportunities as major concerns, a new report has revealed.
The 2024 Citizens’ Perceptions and Expectations Survey Report produced by Sivio Institute, conducted in October 2024, assessed public sentiment on governance, economic conditions, and service delivery.
The findings highlight deep frustrations with Zimbabwe’s economic trajectory, despite government efforts to stabilise the situation.
The survey found that 62% of Zimbabweans identified job creation as their top priority, followed by improvements in healthcare and price stability. The introduction of the new currency, Zimbabwe Gold (ZiG), was meant to curb inflation, but fluctuating exchange rates have left many uncertain about the economy’s future.
“We are struggling to make ends meet,” said one respondent. “The prices of basic goods are unpredictable, and jobs are scarce.”
Government-led infrastructure projects, including road construction and dam projects, were noted as positive steps, but many citizens argued that these initiatives did not directly address their immediate economic hardships.
The report revealed that 53% of respondents rated central government performance as ‘low’, while 42% rated it ‘medium’. Corruption was identified as the biggest factor hindering government effectiveness, with 44% of citizens citing it as a major concern.
“People feel disconnected from decision-making,” said a policy analyst. “There is little citizen participation in governance, and many believe their voices are not heard.”
The survey also showed that only 24% of Zimbabweans had ever participated in a policy formulation process, reflecting a gap in public engagement.
Local governments did not fare much better, with 50% of citizens rating their performance as ‘medium’ and 44% as ‘low’. Access to clean water, functioning clinics, and better road maintenance emerged as the top three priorities for local authorities.
“Service delivery is failing, and we can’t keep relying on promises,” said a resident from Bulawayo.
Corruption, incompetence, and interference from central government were listed as key obstacles to effective local governance.
When asked what a prosperous Zimbabwe would look like, most respondents pointed to job creation, a thriving industrial sector, price stability, and improved healthcare services.
“We need industries to reopen and export goods again,” said another respondent. “We can’t depend on an informal economy forever.”
The findings suggest a growing demand for greater government accountability and citizen participation in policy-making. The report urges authorities to focus on economic stability, anti-corruption measures, and inclusive governance to restore public confidence.