Fit for purpose? Examining the role of social assistance programs in addressing climate-induced poverty in displacement settings in Zimbabwe

The role of social protection in safeguarding households and individuals from poverty and vulnerability has gained renewed interest with climate impacts. Research increasingly explores how social protection can minimise exposure to climate risk, smooth consumption during disasters, and support livelihood recovery. Yet the voices of affected populations remain largely absent from policy and practice. Using mixed methods and a multi-site case study approach, we assess the adequacy and effectiveness of social assistance delivered during and after two cyclone displacements (Dineo and Idai) in two districts of Zimbabwe, grounded in the voices of climate-displaced populations and key informants. We find that although social assistance expanded in coverage, it lacked anticipatory support to prepare communities, with generational differences in views on targeting and recovery. Programs were widely seen as inadequate for promoting long-term self-sufficiency, particularly among low-income smaller households, with support duration too short to sustain recovery. Qualitative insights showed that perceptions of effectiveness extended beyond income, shaped by social experiences of respect and dignity. IDPs prioritised livelihood diversification and skills training over short-term assistance but faced significant infrastructure constraints in pursuing livelihoods. Drawing on this evidence, we conclude that social assistance for IDPs remains reactive and inadequate, requiring a shift towards anticipatory, livelihoods-oriented support for building climate resilience and recovery with dignity. Long-term, resilience-oriented interventions, including investments in reskilling and training, are essential to strengthen outcomes in climate-affected contexts. Social assistance systems would benefit from using beneficiary feedback, examining how existing programs address their evolving needs under a changing climate.