Abstract:
This study examined the effects of a declining economy on the profession of chartered accountants (CAs) in Zimbabwe. The
study adopted a qualitative approach using a pragmatic grounded theory design. Primary data were obtained through in-depth
interviews with five purposively sampled CAs and two key informants drawn from the professional body and an institution
that trains CAs. Furthermore, secondary data were drawn from the professional body’s archives and from newspapers. Data
from interviews and documents were analyzed through thematic analysis and content analysis, respectively. The study has
revealed that the profession of CAs has been changing in response to the declining economy and the changes include losing
its status and autonomy, increased competition from other accounting fields and compromised professional standards. It also
emerged that professionals themselves engage in both negative and positive activities that enable them to survive the effects
of a declining economy. Recommendations are provided for the professionals and the professional body in dealing with the
impact of a precarious economy.
