Decentralization in Zimbabwe

Zimbabwe has achieved impressive strides in human development since independence, as reflected by improvements in such indicators as literacy, child mortality and life expectancy which stand well above regional averages (see table 1). Access to services important for human development also compares favourably with countries of the region. For example, combined primary and secondary enrollment ratios stood at 95% by 1986-88. These achievements reflect a substantial restructuring of public expenditures since independence towards priority social services and away from defence. Nonetheless, the country remains amongst the "low human development" group as classified by the 1992 Human Development Report. Improved performance is especially urgent in certain areas, including economic growth, daily calorie supply as percentage of requirements and maternal mortality rates. Serious disparities in human development indicators and access to services persist, reflecting the continuing impact of past discrimination.