Towards effective strategy implementation in the public sector : an appraisal of the Zimbabwe agenda for sustainable socio-economic transformation

Abstract

Public management scholarship consistently confronts the challenge of strategy implementation capabilities within the public sector, a pressing issue particularly pronounced in Zimbabwe, where institutions frequently face hurdles during implementation. Scholars lament the scarcity of empirical research aimed at improving public strategy implementation, particularly within Zimbabwe's socio-political context. Formulated in response to this invitation, this study addresses the challenges of implementing public strategies in Zimbabwe, focusing on the Zimbabwe Agenda for Sustainable Socio-economic Transformation (ZIMASSET) from 2013 to 2018. Using a critical realist approach and a pastiche of theories encompassing the environmental, cultural, power, and learning perspectives, the study examines the complex dynamics affecting public strategy implementation in unstable sociopolitical context such as Zimbabwe. Inspired by Sun Tsu's adaptable strategy principles, the study analyses interview data collected from participants in the Office of the President and Cabinet Permanent Secretaries, ZIMASSET implementors, and public intellectuals to examine key aspects of public strategy implementation. Findings reveal deep-rooted issues like political interference, leadership disengagement, outdated policies, and weak institutions, hindering ZIMASSET outcomes. The theoretical framework helps explain the environmental factors, cultural dynamics, power structures, and learning processes influencing ZIMASSET implementation, underscoring the need for multifaceted solutions. Challenges include limited stakeholder involvement, transparency issues, and external constraints such as economic sanctions. The study advances the discussion on public strategy implementation in Zimbabwe and proposes a framework for enhancing public strategy implementation. The proposed framework presents practical insights for policymakers, researchers, and practitioners. The study hopes to contribute to a broader understanding of the challenges in translating strategic plans into tangible socio-economic outcomes, potentially extending beyond Zimbabwe's borders.