Opaque tender processes favour companies and individuals linked to the ruling party or military.
The late former President, Robert Mugabe’s regime was marked by patrimonialism, where loyalty and personal connections mattered more than merit or public interest.
This system perpetuated corruption, nepotism, and an authoritarian rule, stifling the country’s development and democratic aspirations.
In 2018, the military assisted the incumbent President’s rise to power by controversially removing Mugabe from power under the guise of targeting criminals surrounding the former President.
Zimbabwe’s Second Republic has promised much, but delivered little. Despite lofty promises of development and economic growth under the mantra ‘Zimbabwe is open for business’, the country remains mired in corruption, cronyism, underdevelopment and inefficiency.
Patrimonialism
It will be an incomplete assessment of the country’s development conundrum without discussing the issue of patrimonialism.
Patrimonialism is a political and social system in which a ruler or government treats the state and its resources as their personal property, prioritising their own interests and those of their loyal supporters over the public good.
Key features of patrimonialism include:
- Personalised power and authority
- Blurring of public and private spheres
- Clientelism and patronage networks
- Nepotism and favoritism
- Limited institutionalisation and rule of law
- Prioritisation of short-term gains over long-term development
- Suppression of political opposition and dissent
Max Weber, a German sociologist, introduced the concept of patrimonialism to describe traditional forms of authority and power.
In modern contexts, patrimonialism can manifest in authoritarian regimes, corrupt democracies, and even some business and organisational cultures.
Patrimonialism often lead to:
- Inequality and injustice
- Corruption and abuse of power
- Stunted economic and social development
- Political instability and repression
Understanding patrimonialism helps us analyse and critique systems of power and authority that prioritise personal gain over public interests.
The patrimonialism in the country’s development discourse can be witnessed on how development is set to benefit the elites, tenders are awarded corruptly to cronies, the development uses the top- down approach were powers being dictates the form of development without any consultation and development process is characterised by delays and inefficient.
Elitist Projects
The government’s focus on high-end infrastructure projects has benefited the elite and tourists, while neglecting rural areas and basic services.
The new parliament building, Victoria Falls airport upgrade, Victoria Falls cricket stadium and air ambulances are examples of this skewed priorities.
Tender Corruption
The Presidential Goat Scheme is a stark example of corruption and cronyism. Awarded to Blackdeck Livestock and Poultry Farming, represented by Moses Mpofu and Mike Chimombe, the US$87 million contract was paid in advance, but the duo allegedly used the funds for personal gain, purchasing luxurious houses and vehicles.
Top-Down Approach
Decisions are made in Harare, without community engagement or participation.
This perpetuates a culture of elitism, neglecting local needs and context.
Delays and Inefficiencies
Projects are plagued by corruption, misappropriation of funds, and delays.
Political instability and policy inconsistency hinder progress, deterring investors.
Investment Considerations
Investors must exercise caution, considering the lack of transparency, corruption risks, and political instability.
Prioritising grassroots development over elitist projects is crucial.
Conclusion
Zimbabwe’s development is hindered by corruption, cronyism, and a top-down approach. Investors must demand transparency and prioritise sustainable development that benefits all Zimbabweans, not just the privileged few. Only then can the country unlock its true potential.