Zimbabwe’s Social Policy Response to Covid-19: Temporary Food Relief and Cash Transfers

Abstract

Zimbabwe’s social policy response to Covid-19 unfolded in a context of enduring socioeconomic and political crises. Its main instruments were temporary food relief and cash transfers, though it also included healthcare measures, an economic stimulus package, pension benefits, and “cushioning allowances”. The expansion of food relief and cash transfers was based on existing social protection programmes, and beneficiaries were, at least in theory determined through means-testing and targeting. Local and international civil society organisations supported the government’s response. While the breadth and timing of Zimbabwe’s social policy response are noteworthy, it remained largely inadequate and temporary.