The novel COVID-19 pandemic has ravaged the entire world and its far reaching impacts have been felt across different regions and sectors world-over. Similarly, the Zimbabwean public sector has been equally affected by this pandemic. Using a qualitative methodology the research interrogates the effects of the COVID-19 pandemic and proffers ways to deal with its impacts on the Zimbabwean public sector. Data was extensively collected from documentary sources such as books, journals, government publications etc. The study established that the Zimbabwean Health Sector (ZHS) is completely overwhelmed by the pandemic, that there is a decrease in revenue collection, poor social accountability, and corruption and that frontline employees and those working in environments that are exposed to the virus are psychologically affected. The research recommends that the government should capacitate the ZHS, revitalise industries and harnessing small to medium enterprises, embrace open Information Technologies (I.T) in parliamentary activities, strengthen the Watchdog institutions and create sustainable conducive working conditions for all.

A number of policies have been put in place as of 1980 but the implementation of the policy objectives has been highly compromised. This research is therefore premised on exploring the challenges faced in the implementation of economic policies using the Zimbabwe Agenda for Sustainable Socio-Economic Transformation (ZIMASSET) of 2013 to 2018 as the focal point. The study employs a case study research design which triangulates qualitative as well as quantitative research methods into mixed methods. On sampling techniques, the research employs simple random sampling and purposive sampling. Structured questionnaires and in-depth interviews were also used in collecting data. The research established that the ZIMASSET policy has been ruled out as an appetizing economic blueprint which when followed to its logical conclusions can in a way turn around the economic fortunes of the country. Be that as it may, some contend that there is nothing peculiar about the ZIMASSET policy as it is yet another attempt by the ZANU-PF led government to moot a policy that will die a premature death. In light of this, the study recommends policy autonomy, multiplicity of sources of funding, supporting the agricultural sector, curbing corruption, clear policy procedures as well as utmost commitment to the policy as strategies that can enhance the successful implementation of future economic policies in Zimbabwe.