Social protection as a panacea to the containment of COVID-19 pandemic: A case study of Zimbabwe

Abstract

The pandemic of Novel Corona Virus (COVID-19) in the year 2020 impacted negatively on the economies of many countries and disrupted normal human life in many parts of the world. In order to contain the spread of COVID-19, many countries including Zimbabwe developed and implemented measures including restricting travelling, observing physical distance and encouraging people to practice hygiene among other measures. This situation resulted in the closure of businesses (formal and informal) thereby rendering many people jobless and loss of income. While the measures taken by the government of Zimbabwe to contain the spread of COVID-19 are plausible, it is concerning to note that there was (is) lack of investment in social protection. Like any other disaster, COVID-19 pandemic has resulted in the increase in the number of vulnerable people hence the need to focus on social protection. In the absence of social protection, measures aimed at containing COVID-19 are not being adhered to which makes it difficult to address this disaster. This also results in the increase in domestic violence, child abuse and food insecurity. This paper is based on literature review and interviews with eight key informants. There is need for the implementation of contributory and non-contributory social protection schemes. Therefore, social protection is a panacea to this disaster.

Key Terms: Social protection, disaster, COVID-19, economy, restrictions, vulnerable, Zimbabwe