Story by ZBC Reporter
THE University of Zimbabwe has officially begun its nationwide data collection for the Zimbabwe African Peer Review Mechanism (APRM), marking a significant step toward the upcoming assessment scheduled for November 2025.
The initiative aims to gather comprehensive information on Zimbabwe’s economic governance and management, as part of the country’s self-monitoring and development efforts under the APRM framework.
The data collection process, which began on October 6, involves surveying 2 000 households across all ten provinces.
The effort is in preparation for a targeted review mission by the APRM Continental Secretariat, based at the African Union Headquarters in Addis Ababa, Ethiopia.
The review aims to evaluate Zimbabwe’s progress in governance and development, with a focus on economic management. The study follows the provincial leadership awareness engagements recently undertaken by the Zimbabwe Governing Board chairperson, Commissioner Manzou.
The African Peer Review Mechanism is a voluntary, self-monitoring instrument adopted by AU member states to promote good governance and accountability.
Zimbabwe formally acceded to the APRM during the 29th Session of the APR Forum of Heads of State and Government, held on February 8, 2020, in Addis Ababa.
As part of the review process, the APRM Secretariat will facilitate Focus Group Discussions (FGDs) with diverse stakeholders. These include government ministries, legislators, provincial and traditional leaders, private sector representatives, civil society organisations, media, youth groups, persons with disabilities, religious leaders, and international partners.
Such broad consultations aim to foster a comprehensive understanding of Zimbabwe’s governance landscape.
The survey’s sampling strategy ensures proportional representation across provinces, with specific household quotas per region. For example, Harare will contribute 342 households (17%), while Masvingo will provide 206 households (10%). Other provinces, such as Mashonaland West, Midlands, and Manicaland, will have between 12% and 13% of the sample, ensuring balanced and representative data collection.
This initiative underscores Zimbabwe’s commitment to transparent governance and development. The insights gained from the comprehensive data collection will inform the upcoming review and help shape future policies and initiatives to foster sustainable growth and good governance in the country.
The APRM, established in 2003 by NEPAD, is a key African self-monitoring tool designed to enhance governance across the continent by encouraging member states to assess their performance and implement reforms.
Zimbabwe Governing Board chairperson, Commissioner Manzou.
