T THE VICIOUS COUNTERATTACK: HOW CORRUPTION FIGHTS BACK AGAINST ANTI-CORRUPTION EFFORTS IN ZIMBABWEAN STATE-OWNED ENTITIES (SOEs).
Keywords:
Key Words: Corruption, anti-corruption, Anti-corruption framework, state enterprises and governance approachAbstract
Despite numerous legal and institutional interventions, corruption remains entrenched in Zimbabwe’s state-owned enterprises (SOEs), affecting both public and private sectors. Current management and institutional systems have failed to effectively curb persistent corruption. Notably, limited scholarly attention has been given to crafting a governance-focused framework tailored to Zimbabwean SOEs. As a result, corruption continues to impair service delivery, economic progress, and citizens’ quality of life. This study employed qualitative content analysis to develop a governance-based institutional framework to address corruption in SOEs. Drawing on 30 empirical studies, it applied multiple theoretical lenses, chiefly X-inefficiency Theory, alongside Institutional, Stakeholder, and Expectancy theories. The findings revealed systemic corruption, driven by political interference, lack of political will, and fragile regulatory structures. Barriers such as policy voids, weak legislation, resource limitations, community disengagement, and negative perceptions were also identified. The study proposes a multi-dimensional framework involving stakeholder engagement, international benchmarking, SOE reform, regulatory enhancement, and capacity building. It also recommends boosting political commitment, investing in evidence-based research, establishing independent oversight bodies, and reinforcing the rule of law. Further research is needed to identify practical strategies for implementing these recommendations.
Key Words: Corruption, anti-corruption, Anti-corruption framework, state enterprises and governance approach
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