The Intersection Between Local Economic Development and Devolution: Some Insights for Urban Resilience Building in Zimbabwe

Abstract

Devolution is emphasised as a crucial policy for local economic development in the national development roadmap of the
Zimbabwean government, which addresses local inequities and is required to reduce poverty in society. The study engages a desk
review to explore the relationship between the two concepts. The study makes the case that if fundamentals such as effective political
systems, accountability mechanisms, regulatory framework on intergovernmental relations, and capacity building are in place,
devolution may be able to yield the desired positive results of resilient local economic development. However, for the successful
implementation of devolution to achieve local economic development, the article recommends that policy makers, in an effort
of easing the transition from a unitary to a devolved government system, must appreciate that institutional, political, financial, and
legislative measures are complementary and mutually reinforcing.