Abstract
Background The national development roadmap of the Zimbabwean government emphasises devolution as a fundamental plank in alleviating poverty and regional inequalities. However, the government is grappling with the transition to a devolved government system.Aim This article aimed to explore the critical success factors for guiding the devolution process in Zimbabwe.Setting The research is descriptive in nature and provides a detailed analysis of the devolution processes in Zimbabwe.Methods The article is theoretical, and considered a qualitative, descriptive research approach.Results The article argues that devolution has the potential to achieve the intended benefits if implementation fundamentals are in place.Conclusion The article provides the political, fiscal, legislative, and institutional reforms critical for the successful implementation of devolution. These reforms are complementary and mutually reinforcing in facilitating the transition to a devolved government system.