An exploratory study on barriers to government 3.0 adoption in Zimbabwe

Abstract

This study investigated the socio-economic, technical and policy-related barriers to adopting Government 3.0 in Zimbabwe, guided by the Diffusion of Innovations (DOI) Theory. Using qualitative methods, including semi-structured interviews, focus groups and document analysis, the research provided context-specific insights into the challenges hindering digital governance. Socio-economic barriers, such as widespread digital illiteracy, unaffordable internet access and the systemic exclusion of marginalised groups, particularly in rural areas, significantly impede adoption. Technical challenges, including inadequate ICT infrastructure, unreliable internet connectivity and interoperability issues, further exacerbate these limitations. Policy-related barriers, such as outdated regulatory frameworks, bureaucratic resistance and fragmented governance, create a cyclical interplay with socio-economic and technical constraints, further stalling progress. The findings highlight the critical need for targeted interventions, including nationwide digital literacy programs, strategic investments in ICT infrastructure and fostering multi-stakeholder collaboration to align policies and strategies for inclusive governance. Beyond offering actionable recommendations for Zimbabwe, the study contributed to the broader discourse on e-Government adoption in resource-constrained settings, providing valuable insights for similar developing nations. It emphased the importance of enabling factors, such as demonstrative pilot projects and gender-focused initiatives, to enhance compatibility, observability and adoption of Government 3.0 systems. Additionally, the research identified avenues for future studies, including quantitative validation, the exploration of socio-cultural dynamics and longitudinal assessments of digital transformation initiatives. This study served as a foundational step toward bridging the digital divide and fostering inclusive, efficient and sustainable governance through the adoption of advanced digital technologies.