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Archive for February, 2011

A Dictator must be removed before an election

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Thursday, February 17th, 2011 by Bev Clark

Eddie Cross says the calls for Egyptian style protests in Zimbabwe is naive. John Makumbe believes that Egypt style protests can and will happen in Zimbabwe. The average Zimbabwean, including myself, believes that those kind of protests in Zimbabwe are pretty much impossible, especially when the majority of our activist youth are bickering amongst themselves and are willing to sell their allegiance, to any political party for money for a meal a day.

In the meantime one of Zimbabwe’s most vocally active youth groups, The Youth Forum, reckons that before any election, a dictator must be removed.

The question of course is how?

Lessons from Egypt: A Dictator Must be removed Before an Election

We salute, hail and acknowledge the recent victory by the people of Egypt and Tunisia in deposing off their dictator-led governments. The Governments in both Tunisia and Egypt, just like our own, failed to read the mood of their populations. Consequently they left in a humiliating manner. It is therefore important for each government to know when it could no longer be defended by its own military.

The first lesson for us as Zimbabweans is: A DICTATOR MUST BE REMOVED BEFORE AN ELECTION. This idea of waiting for an election to depose of our own dictator who has proclaimed time and again that a pen (the vote) cannot win a fight with a gun is rather illogical. The mandate of executing a relevant stimuli revolution in era of political stagnation that threatens national progress unequivocally lies with the galvanized youths whether they realize this reality, sit it out in pseudo-action orientated civic organization of purely mercenary tradition, over-exploit the prerogative of prorogue or timidly water down every nascent call to peaceful unstinting organization.

Furthermore, if we remain able to accept the affliction of multi-faceted syndrome of procrastination while the loss in terms of time continues to escalate it will remain our lot to marvel the easy traditions of other galvanized youths on the continent as not ‘realistic in President Mugabe’s Zimbabwe’. Notwithstanding, eventually running away from motherland to other democracies accomplished by the marvellous revolutionary traditions of other equally-born youths in Africa as those undignified visitors called ‘political and economic exiles’.

Governments cannot rule without the military and the military cannot survive without the people whose resources are utilised to buy weapons and pay for salaries. This is why no government could exist by alienating its people. The fundamental lesson to learn here is that the beginning of the end of a regime starts with a spark which ignites the fire. Our motherland has had many sparks but it is us who have failed to ignite the fire and sustain it. Surprising, other countries in the Mid-east have ignited their fires with reports saying Libya, Bahrain and Iran are the latest countries to be hit by popular protests inspired by the uprisings in Egypt and Tunisia.

We should disburse homage to the role that social media is now playing in many such revolts. The political unrest exploding across the Middle East is just the latest illustration that social media is no longer just for teenagers to tweet about their lives, play Farmville, and post pictures from last weekend’s party. Today, it has the potential to shake regimes and drive leaders from power. An army of bloggers, facebookers and tweeters in Egypt and Egyptians around the world were at the heart of the uprisings. All these facilities are abundantly available in Zimbabwe and can be used effectively.

Time is running out, the youths of Zimbabwe need to act now!

Questions and Answers in Zimbabwe’s Parliament

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Thursday, February 17th, 2011 by Bev Clark

The Southern African Parliamentary Support Trust regularly publishes  information on the proceedings in Zimbabwe’s Parliament. Here’s their latest bulletin:

Introduction

The Question and Answer session was the only business that the House of Assembly transacted yesterday, on Wednesday16 February 2011, before it adjourned to Tuesday 22 February 2011.

Question without Notice
The segment on question without notice is confined to policy issues, where backbenchers quiz Ministers on policies under their purview.

Selling of the National Flag
Hon. Felix Magalela Sibanda (MDC-T Magwegwe Constituency) asked the Minister of Justice and Legal Affairs the legal implications of selling the National Flag on the streets and the proceeds thereof. Hon. Chinamasa said in terms of National Flag Act, there was nothing wrong with such enterprise as long as the manufacturers of those flags do not distort the features on the flag. He further stated that the proceeds go to the people involved in the enterprise.

Suspension of Public Assistance to Vulnerable Groups
Hon. Dorothy Mangami (ZANU PF Gokwe Constituency) raised a question regarding the suspension of the stipend paid by the department of social welfare to vulnerable members of society and also queried the amount paid out which she considered to be very little. In response, the Minister of Labour and Social Services, Hon. Paurina Mpariwa confirmed that her ministry had not been able to honour the pay-outs between May and December 2010 due to lack of financial resources. The public assistance scheme is pegged at $20 per head per registered household. She further informed the House that the ministry had received resources from Treasury and had thus resuscitated the programme.

Delays in Appointing the Anti-Corruption Commission
Hon. Willas Madzimure (MDC-T Kambuzuma Constituency), asked the Minister of Justice and Legal Affairs why the Anti-Corruption Commission still hasn’t been appointed. Hon. Chinamasa said the delay regarding the appointment of the Commission was mainly due to the wide ranging nature of consultations. He pointed out that the appointment procedures for the Anti-Corruption Commission were different from the other commissions which were appointed last year through a parliamentary process. In addition, the Minister of Justice said commissioners of the Anti-corruption Commission were full time office bearers and that is why the process had taken too long as government wanted to make sure that they appointed the right people.

Delays in Ratifying Convention Against Torture (CAT)
Hon Harrison Mudzuri (MDC-T Zaka Central Constituency) quizzed the Minister of Justice and Legal Affairs, Hon. Patrick Chinamasa why Zimbabwe still hasn’t ratified the Convention against Torture (CAT). Hon. Chinamasa said he made an undertaking to the UN that he wanted to conduct workshops on the issue before the Convention was brought to parliament for ratification. He said, however, his ministry was too busy on other issues to conduct the workshops.

Legalization of marijuana
Hon. Simbaneuta Mudarikwa (ZANU PF Uzumba Constituency) had the House in stitches when he asked the Minister of Agriculture Mechanization and Irrigation Development if government could extend the policy on Export Processing Zones (EPZs) to the growing of marijuana (mbanje) for medicinal purposes. Hon. Joseph Made said marijuana was prohibited in the country.

Presidential Agricultural Input Scheme
The Minister of Agriculture Mechanization and Irrigation Development was non-committal in his response to a question by Hon. Settlement Chikwinya (MDC-T Mbizo Constituency) regarding the source of funding for the Presidential Agricultural Input Scheme and what he termed the politicization of the scheme. Hon. Made said he did not was to comment on the issue because the Presidential Well Wishers Input Scheme did not fall under his purview. The Minister further said he was not aware of politicisation of the scheme and challenged Hon. Chikwinya to bring forward evidence of his allegation.

Lines of Credit to the Industry
The Deputy Minister of Industry and Commerce, Hon Michael Bimha was asked by Hon. Willas Madzimure (MDC-T Kambuzuma Constituency), to brief the House regarding the lines of credit which were promised to the industry by government. The Deputy Minister said the function regarding the financing of the industry has since been transferred to the ministry of Finance. The ministry of Industry was now merely responsible for receiving requests from the industry for onward transmission to the Ministry Finance.

Invasion of manufacturing and retailing industries
Hon Blessing Chebundo (MDC-T Kwekwe Central Constituency) asked the Deputy Minister of Industry and Commerce, Hon Michael Bimha to state measures his ministry had taken to safeguard the invasion of manufacturing and retailing industries such as what happened at the Gulf Business Complex in Harare in recent weeks. In his response Hon. Bimha said the role of his ministry was to create a conducive environment for industry and commerce to operate in terms of policy formulation as well as regulations. Thus where the industry was threatened in any way, his ministry appealed to the relevant ministry that administers law and order to institute appropriate measures.

Freezing of Civil Service Posts
Hon. Clifford Sibanda (ZANU PF Bubi Constituency) asked the Minister of Public Service Hon. Professor Elphas Mukonoweshuro what would happen to nurses and teachers who recently graduated from training colleges given that government has frozen posts in the civil service. Prof. Mukonoweshuro said that while there was a general freeze in recruitment across the board within the Public Service, there was a special dispensation whereby the Public Service is looking at specific specialised categories, especially in the technical fields like education and health. The responsible ministries that have vacancies were expected to make an application to the Public Service Commission for a waiver allowing them to fill vacant posts.

Ghost Workers in Civil Service
Hon. Amos Chibaya (MDC-T Mkoba Constiuency) asked the Minister of Public Service Hon. Professor Elphas Mukonoweshuro why he had not stopped the payment of ghost workers in the civil service. In his response, the Minister said Cabinet was still considering the Payroll and Skills Audit Report and thus he was not in a position to take action on the matter. He undertook to make a ministerial statement in parliament once Cabinet had finished studying the report.

Botswana’s Plans on Upper Zambezi Waters
Hon. Paul Mazikana (ZANU PF Mbire Constituency) asked the Minister of Water Resources Development and Management, Hon. Samuel Sipepa Nkomo Zimabawe’s position regarding Botswana’a intentions to draw water from upper Zambezi and if that was not going to affect tourism activities in Victoria Falls. The Minister said his ministry was actively looking into the issue. He further informed the House that Zimbabwe and Botswana were about to conclude a joint water commission which would among other things address the concerns raised by Hon. Mazikana. In addition he said Zimbabwe and Zambia were opposed to Botswana’s programme as it would certainly affect tourism activities in Victoria Falls.

Traffic Spot Fines and Impounding of Vehicles by Police

Hon. Siyabonga Ncube (MDC Insiza Constituency) asked the co-Minister of Home Affairs, Hon. Teresa Makone if it was government policy for traffic police to inst on spot fines for traffic offences instead of issuing tickets that could be paid later. In addition Hon. Ncube wanted to find out if it was proper for the police to impound one’s vehicle for failure to pay a spot fine. In her response the Minister appeared to confirm that traffic police had the right to charge spot fines as long as they issued receipts. However, if the aggrieved did not admit committing the traffic offence, they had a right to refuse to pay a spot fine and insist on going to court. Regarding the impounding of vehicles for failure to pay spot fines, the Minister said traffic police had no right to do so.

Progress on People who looted the Gulf Business Complex
Hon. Collen Gwiyo (MDC-T Zengeza West Constituency) sought progress from the co-Minister of Home Affairs Teresa Makone regarding the people who looted shops at the Gulf Business Complex and whether or not the government of Zimbabwe would apologize to the affected Chinese and Nigerian business people. The Minister said the prosecution process has been instituted against those who have been identified. However, as regards a government apology, Hon. Makone said they had not considered that.

Empowerment Policy for Vulnerable Groups
Hon. Annastancia Ndhlovu (ZANU PF Shurugwi South Constituency) asked the Minister of Youth Development, Indigenization and Empowerment Hon. Saviour Kasukuwere if his ministry had a deliberate policy that include vulnerable groups such as youth, women and the disabled in the various economic empowerment initiatives that the country was currently undertaking to which the minister answered in the affirmative.

Re-emergence of the National Youth Service Programme

Hon Anadi Sululu (MDC-T Silobela Constituency) asked the Minister of Youth Development, Indigenization and Empowerment Hon. Saviour Kasukuwere if the re-emergence of the National Youth Service Programme had been sanctioned by Cabinet. The Minister stated that the programme was actually agreed upon by the principals in the Global Political Agreement (GPA). He appealed to MPs to desist from “stigmatizing the youth who undergo training under this programme as militias”.

Adjournment of the House
The House adjourned to Tuesday 22 February 2011, ostensibly to allow women parliamentarians to attend a Conflict Resolution and Peace Building Workshop to be held in Masvingo (Great Zimbabwe Hotel) from 18 – 20 February 2011.

SAPST makes every effort to ensure reliable information, but cannot take legal responsibility for information supplied.

Mwana asinga cheme

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Wednesday, February 16th, 2011 by Upenyu Makoni-Muchemwa

I arrived in South Africa today and was bemused to find that my South African driver and a fellow passenger from Ghana are more passionate about ‘the Zimbabwe issue’ than I’ve heard any Zimbabwean in Zimbabwe be.

“Mugabe must go!” proclaimed the driver.

“Only Tsvangirai can save Zimbabwe now!” chimed in the Ghanaian.

I started to give my opinion, that Tsvangirai is not the great Bantu hope and in some ways Mugabe has a point. I was shushed. What could I possibly know?

The only one of these two to have visited Zimbabwe was the driver, in the early eighties ‘when things were still good’. They both knew better. After all, they were both better informed of the goings on in my country than I. They both agreed with each other, smoothly leaving me, the only person in the car who has lived, worked and survived gore riya renzara under the Mugabe regime well out of the conversation.

We proclaim to ourselves that the Diasporans need to come home to get in on the ground floor in re-building Zimbabwe, but perhaps we’ve gotten it wrong. Increasingly I’m finding that important conversations about Zimbabwe, are taking place outside of Zimbabwe. Where does that leave those of us who live and work in Zimbabwe?

I hmm-ed where appropriate, but for the most part, I was silent in that car this morning, as are Zimbabweans when our country and its future are being discussed. Investment conferences, vigils and even talks regarding the existence of sanctions which may or may not be causing additional suffering are discussed without the people they are supposed to be helping. There is zero consultation and the only opinions that seem to matter are those that are self serving at our expense.  If Zimbabwe is to have a revolution it is that Zimbabweans should learn to speak for themselves. Mwana asingacheme anofira mumbereko.

Employment opportunities in Zimbabwe

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Tuesday, February 15th, 2011 by Bev Clark

Hello out there.  Work in and for Zimbabwe. Help grow our nation. Check out the vacancies below. If you’d like to receive this sort of information by email each week drop us a note saying “subscribe” to info [at] kubatana [dot] net


Finance Officer, National Officer at NOB: United Nations Children’s Fund (UNICEF)
Deadline: 16 February 2011

UNICEF, the world’s leading children’s rights organization, has an opening for passionate and committed professionals who want to make a lasting difference for children in Zimbabwe. We are seeking people with a commitment for women and children, high drive for results, demonstrable embracing of diversity, integrity, demonstrable teamwork, good self-awareness and self-regulation.

Purpose of the Job:
Under the supervision of Finance Manager, this position provides high quality supports to Harare Office staff, regional, and headquarters levels, in the area of accounting control, recording, and reporting of assets, liabilities and income. Monitors the appropriate disbursements of funds and payment accounts in accordance with rules, regulations and established budgetary limits.

Major Tasks to be accomplished:
1. Fiduciary responsibility of funds and assets: Responsible in closely monitoring the cash balance of all accounts in the banks and other accounts. Supervise control against Petty Cash funds, disbursement, recording and accounting. Also ensures closing/liquidation of the accounts in timely manner.

2. Responsible for the safekeeping of cash and cheques. Supervise control against Personal Advances Recoveries to ensure adherence to the prevailing rules and regulations. Also ensure recovery of local PAR in timely manner. Ensuring that account receivable is closely monitored and deposited accordingly, and no prior year of entries are outstanding.

3. Monitor cash flow projection from all programmes, supply, and operations and ensure liquidity, funds replenishment just when they are needed, hence end month of cash balances do not exceed USD 200,000 per month, therefore preparation and analyze of financial date for budget estimation should took place. Cash Optimization report should be uploaded on intranet by 7th of each month.

4. Compliance with all financial and operational systems and procedures: Supervise, review and check all transactions pertaining to office expenditures for compliance with UNICEF financial rules and regulations. Ensure the accuracy of recording the expenditures. Facilitate regular assessments of monthly accounts; ensure the quality assurance of the accounts for compliance with the existing UNICEF rules and regulations.

5. Timely accounting and financial reports: Ensure that monthly closure of accounts and ensure that form 149 and Form 359 is submitted to HQ by the fifth of the following month. Completion of all HQ requirements for End Year closure and ensure that documents are submitted on time. Provide advice to HQ on the status of zero balance account, and provide feedback and ensure prompt responses to any queries rose by UNICEF NYHQ pertaining to finance and Accounts related issues.

6. Managing Knowledge and Information: Provide advice to all programme and operations staffs on the application and interpretation of UNICEF accounting and financial rules, regulations, procedures and policies, especially with the IPSAS and VISION Implementation. Undertake filed visit in supporting the assurance activity related to HACT Implementation, and provide finance training. Coordinate the unit by setting performance standard and objectives.

7. Establish an effective coordination, communication, collaboration: Build relationship based on the information exchange and trust with others in the organization and outside the organization. Represent the office in meetings with local banks and administrative suppliers, negotiates locally issued contracts as well as in meetings with other UN agencies to coordinate operational matters and activities, including harmonization of the UN common system.

Qualifications and Competencies
-    Advanced university degree in accounting, business administration, economics or financial management and membership or enrolled for membership – of recognized professional accountancy body.
-    At least five years of relevant professional work experience in the field of finance.
-    Good analytical and organizational skills and ability to work in a multicultural environment.

How to apply
If you have experience of working in a similar capacity, meet the above profile and want to make an active and lasting contribution to build a better world for children, send your application quoting vacancy notice number to the following address.

HR Specialist (Vacancy Notice No.: Zim-2011) UNICEF, 6 Fairbridge Avenue, P O Box 1250 Belgravia, Harare

Or email: hararevacancies [at] gmail [dot] com

Only candidates who are under serious consideration will be contacted.

Project Coordinator: Conflict Mitigation Project: Catholic Relief Services – Zimbabwe Program (PVO: 6/2002)
Deadline: 18 February 2011

An international humanitarian and development organization seeks to fill the following position:

Working closely with the Justice and Peace Project Manager, Head of Programs, and the Program team, the Project Coordinator will lead CRS’ efforts to fulfill USAID/CMM aims of supporting people-to-people conflict mitigation and reconciliation projects and activities which bring together individuals in order to address the causes of conflict and instability. To this end, CRS and its partners will seek to enhance dialogue and cooperative action for peace and engagement at the grassroots community level. This position is contingent on funding.

Program Quality:
-    Supervise overall planning, implementation and evaluation of the Conflict Mitigation Project.
-    With key partner staff and stakeholders, ensure program’s strategic objectives and results are fully accomplished and meet expected technical quality standards.
-    Ensure that vision and plans for the program are innovative and are in line with agency and country program strategies.
-    Oversee periodic technical reviews and manage adjustments to program direction and focus.
-    Provide guidance and technical oversight to partners and other collaborating agencies to ensure that lessons of sound practice are documented and disseminated.
-    Oversee program’s monitoring and evaluation system, using data analysis as the basis for measuring performance.
-    Ensure that M&E learning is incorporated into evolving program plans.
-    Ensure integration of program interventions with other agency programs or through linkages with other service providers.
-    With program staff, ensure the delivery of quality training, technical, administrative and financial support to all partner agencies, including the selection and coordination of consultants.
-    Ensure timely and accurate reporting of project progress to the donor.

Management and Administration:
-    Manage program budgets, including tracking of financial and material resources.
-    Ensure accurate and timely reporting of program finances and progress status.
-    Review actual financial performance against the budget, and explain variances on a regular basis.
-    Ensure compliance with all applicable donor regulations, as well as the organization’s operational procedures and policies.
-    Approve program expenditures, budget adjustments, and cost modification requests to donors.

Representation and Advocacy:
- In collaboration with the Project Manager, Capacities and Innovations Coordinator and Head of Programs, act as primary program contact to donor and other local and international stakeholders, responsible for addressing all program matters and,
- Strengthen linkages with existing and potential partner agencies as well as local government and other project stakeholders.

Qualifications and Skills:
-    Masters in conflict resolution, peace building, development studies or related field, or bachelor’s degree with additional commensurate experience.
-    Knowledge of and experience with standard and cutting-edge theories and practices of peace building required, with specific knowledge of people-to-people theories and practices preferred. v    Significant experience managing USG-funded programs required, including knowledge of applicable USG regulations.
-    Proven leadership, inter-personal and analytical skills and ability to build and motivate diverse and talented teams.
-    Proven experience in building and maintaining institutional linkages required.
-    Demonstrated ability to transfer knowledge to diverse audiences in formal and informal settings.
-    Experience with participatory methods and partnerships required, with knowledge of Catholic peace building structures and Catholic Social Teaching preferred.
-    Flexibility to work both in a team and independently.
-    Ability to travel nationally and internationally as required.
-    Excellent English language oral and written communication skills required.
-    Proficiency in Microsoft Office suite, including Word, Excel and Outlook required.

Those who meet the above criteria are invited to submit their applications together with a cover letter and detailed Curriculum Vitae that includes the names and contact details (plus e-mails addresses) of three traceable references. Applications should be clearly marked “POSITION APPLIED FOR”.  Only short-listed candidates will be contacted.  Please submit to: The Country Representative, 95 Park Lane, Harare, P.O. Box CY 1111, Causeway, Harare, or to recruitment [at] zw [dot] saro [dot] crs [dot] org


Field Assistant: Local NGO
Deadline: 18 February 2011

To start by 1st March 2011.

The person will be based in Mutoko. Specified below are the requirements for the job.

Professional Qualifications
-    Degree or certificate in Agriculture, Horticulture and or Environmental Management. Duties and responsibilities
-    Training of communities, partners and staff on sustainable development and related themes
-    Provision of technical advice to partners and communities
-    Coordinating, promoting and assisting with implementation of community projects and utilization of resources
-    Liaison with partners, communities and relevant authorities on EC and Northern Branch programme activities
-    Report writing on project activities
-    Monitoring and evaluation of project implementation

Relevant work experience
-    1-year experience as a Field Assistant.
-    Training experience with communities.

If interested please reply attaching a detailed CV and one page motivation letter to the Human Resources Consultant at the following email address: lizziekurebgaseka [at] gmail [dot] com

Monitoring and Evaluation Officer: Local NGO
Deadline: 18 February 2011

To start by 1st March 2011. The person will be based in Harare. Specified below are the requirements for the job.

Professional Qualifications
-    Degree or certificate in Agriculture, Horticulture and or Environmental Management. Duties and responsibilities
-    Developing monitoring and evaluation tools
-    Developing qualitative and quantitative progress indicators for measuring inputs, processes, outputs, outcomes and impact
-    Collecting data for monitoring and evaluation
-    Preparing monitoring and evaluation reports.

Relevant attributes and experience
-    1 year relevant work experience.
-    Team player.
-    Ability to meet targets.

If interested please apply to the following addresses: lizziekurebgaseka [at] gmail [dot] com

Programme Assistant (GS6), at General Service Level: UNICEF
Deadline: 21 February 2011

Vacancy Notice No. Zim/2011:06
Based in Harare, (Fixed Term Post).

UNICEF, the world’s leading children’s rights organization, has an opening for passionate and committed professionals who want to make a lasting difference for children in Zimbabwe. We are seeking people with a commitment for women and children, high drive for results, demonstrable embracing of diversity, integrity, demonstrable teamwork, good self-awareness and self-regulation.

Purpose of the Job
Under general supervision of the Chief Child Protection, performs a variety of information gathering, monitoring, technical and administrative services of moderate scope and difficulty, in support of programme activities.

Major Tasks to be accomplished:

-    Collects information mainly from records and reports and prepares periodic and ad hoc reports on programme and project activities.
-    Organizes data and information, prepares and maintains records, documents and control plans for the monitoring of project/programme implementation.
-    Contributes to the preparation of reports, project documents and submissions to governments by providing information, preparing tables and drafting relatively routine sections. Prepares background information for use in discussions with governments and other organizations. Participates in the briefing and debriefing of project personnel.
-    Scrutinizes plans of operations, exchanges of letters and takes appropriate follow-up action. Assists in the administrative process of government requests for assistance.
-    May be required to carry out specific administrative operational/control tasks for project/programme activities.
-    Performs other duties, as required.

Qualifications and Competencies

-    A diploma in Administration, Management, Business Management or related fields.
-    At least six years of progressively responsible clerical or administrative work and supporting programme activities.
-    Good analytical, organizational and communication skills.
-    Demonstrated ability to work in a multi-cultural environment, and establish harmonious and effective working relationships both within and outside the organization.

How to apply
If you have experience of working in a similar capacity, meet the above profile and want to make an active and lasting contribution to build a better world for children, send your application quoting vacancy notice number to the following address.

HR Specialist
(Vacancy Notice No.: Zim-2011) UNICEF, 6 Fairbridge Avenue, P O Box 1250 Belgravia, Harare

Or email: hararevacancies [at] gmail [dot] com

Only candidates who are under serious consideration will be contacted.

Director: Local national women’s NGO
Deadline: 22 February 2011

A well-established national women’s non-governmental organisation, which seeks to empower women economically and socially, seeks the service of a qualified and experienced person to fill the above named position.

The Job function
-    Overall management of the organisation
-    Policy implementation, planning and budgeting
-    Resource mobilization and allocation
-    Setting the organisation’s strategic direction
-    Public relations and networking
-    Reports to the National Executive Committee

Qualifications
The potential director should possess the following qualification and experience:
-    A recognized degree in social sciences/management/humanities.
-    A Masters degree or an additional post-graduate diploma will be an added advantage.
-    Committed to gender equality, women’s development and promotion of economic and social justice.
-    Sound or proven knowledge of financial management administration.
-    Five years’ experience in managerial position in NGOs and in particular working with empowering women’s organisation.
-    Must be able to function under pressure.
-    Be prepared to work outside normal working times if so desired.
-    Ability to be part of a team.
-    Clean class 4 driver’s licence.

Applicants must submit an application accompanied by a detailed CV, names and addresses of three contactable referees. Shortlisted applicants must find out about the organisation to prepare themselves for the interview.

Applications should be submitted by either post to: The Chairperson: 43 Hillside Road P.O. Box CR 120 Cranborne, Harare Or email: zwbtc2 [at] gmail [dot] com

Policy Advisor: UNDP
Deadline: 24 February 2011

Post Level: P5
Contract Type-International
Fixed Term Appointment
Post Number: 00054677

1. Background

Zimbabwe is undergoing an important transition phase after a decade of political and economic crisis. The formation of an Inclusive Government in February 2009 after the signing of a Global Political Agreement (GPA) by ZANU-PF and the two MDC formations has provided a conducive environment for dialogue towards economic recovery, and national healing, reconciliation and integration. The implementation of the GPA particularly on key issues of political governance and human rights present an opportunity to re-engage with development partners and subsequently addressing challenges facing the country. Consequently, the role of the United Nations particularly UNDP to support the country has become increasingly more important, as both the Government of Zimbabwe and its development partners are looking to the United Nations under its Resident Coordinator System to play the vital role of coordinating and channeling support to the country for its recovery. This task requires optimal capacity for the Government and the UN system to be able to play a leadership role in the implementation of the reforms and the recovery agenda. UNDP in collaboration with UN agencies and other partners is keen to pursue a holistic approach to addressing the challenges in the transitional phase. Although there is significant progress toward relative stability, there is need to invest in comprehensive governance reforms and capacity building initiatives to sustain the gains.

Important processes underway as part of the implementation of the Global Political Agreement (GPA), as well as part of the recovery and return of stability process, include the planning process moving the country from the Short Term Economic Recovery Plan (STERP) to the Medium Term Plan (MTP), Parliamentary Reforms, judicial reforms, Constitution Making, National Healing through creation of the organ responsible under office of the president (OPC), establishment of key oversight and accountability institutions including the Electoral, Media, anti corruption and Human Rights Commissions. All these reforms are good attempts to improve service delivery, citizen participation, good governance, rule of law and respect for human rights. The country has experienced significant human capital drain compounded by economic challenges and hyper inflation; consequently there are weaknesses in the delivery of almost all public services. The UN and UNDP through the Zimbabwe United Nations Development Assistance Frame (ZUNDAF) have been supporting Zimbabwe with the implementation of the the different reforms to implement the GPA and boost the efforts of the inclusive government.  There are however significant capacity challenges. As the lead agency in the areas of Governance and Capacity Development, UNDP is increasingly called upon, by the government and other partners to provide effective policy advisory and technical services   in these areas.

The UNDP CO would therefore require the services of a high level Policy Advisor to contribute to the strategic and innovative thinking in the areas of governance and capacity development in order to anchor the recovery process on a more solid ground. Under the supervision of the RC/RR, in close collaboration with the CD and integrated in the UNDP program team;  the governance and capacity building advisor provides substantive support and analysis to the UNCT and UNDP senior management on matters of policy and advocacy in the area of governance and capacity building. He/she is responsible for coordination of high quality technical and advisory support to the government of Zimbabwe that represents the UN position and coherent with national priorities. He/she will monitor government trends and capacity development initiatives and ensure relevant linkages to UN and UNDP programs. The governance and capacity building advisor provides analysis for formulation of strategies and briefs to UNCT and UNDP senior management and may lead and support experts, international and national consultants as necessary. He/she networks with UN colleagues, government officials, development partners and CSO.

2.    Key Responsibilities
-    Provide strategic advisory and technical assistance to the national stake holders on governance and capacity building related reforms to achieve the following results;
-    High-level policy advice and technical assistance to Government and partners to support the implementation of the on-going reforms.
-    Effective liaison with key stakeholders in the Rights and Interests Cluster and the Governance theme Group and other partners to identify critical linkages between governance reforms, capacity building initiatives and processes in other sectors.
-    Senior level policy advice to government on programmes and processes that facilitate dialogue between
-    Government and social partners and other stakeholders
-    Facilitate effective partnership and knowledge building of national counterparts in the area of Democratic
-    Governance especially on reforms related to conflict prevention and peace building parliament, judicially, constitutional review, accountability and transparency institutions and electoral processes

Provides strategic/policy advisory services in accordance with UNDP’s corporate mandate and approach to support UNDP management and program in the area of Governance Reforms and capacity building to achieve the following results;
-    A relevant and strategically cohesive Governance program within the framework of the ZUNDAF that is responsive to national priorities;
-    Broad, substantive guidance to the country office and national counterparts in the area of deepening democracy, anti-corruption, ongoing reforms related to conflict prevention and peace building parliament, judicially, constitutional review, accountability and transparency institutions and electoral processes.
-    Effective integration of capacity development throughout UNDP’s work with a focus on Governance and MDGs including promulgation of effective policies and strategies that would create synergies between poverty alleviation and governance reforms and capacity building initiatives in collaboration with other experts.
-    Promotion of national ownership and the development of national capacities; fostering of policies and partnerships for enhanced programmatic results and recommend strategic options in addressing capacity requirements and challenges to improve governance in the country. Liaise with development partners, capacity building providers and civil society on strategic issues on governance reform agenda and provide advice on approaches and methodology for cooperation.
-    Impact on gender equality by collaborating with gender and governance Unit, to the design, provide and coordinate substantive technical inputs to national policies and strategies on Governance and capacity building initiatives and programs.
-    Compilation, analysis and interpretation of data, thorough research of the policy development issues in the country; and preparation of technical and strategic position papers, presentations, advisory notes and briefing notes that would strengthen CO interventions

Consolidate UN contribution into national dialogue in the area of governance/capacity building and provide policy advice to the UNCT on key issues of governance/political reforms and capacity building needs of the country to achieve the following results;
-    As the Rights/Interests Cluster and the Governance theme Group advisor from the UN provide a substantive leadership in articulating and consolidating the UN voice on Democratic Governance issues in national policy dialogue and effective participation and strengthen UN in policy dialogues between the Government and Development Partners on matters of governance within the framework of key national processes like the implementation of the various reforms related to the GPA, the MTP and the MDG Action Plan.
-    Provision of timely advice to the UNRC on policy and programming issues related to the governance areas in the preparation and implementation of the ZUNDAF. This includes enhanced impact and relevance of UN programmes for the national governance and capacity building agenda.
-    Technical and policy advice to the Rights/Interests Cluster and the Governance theme Group, under the guidance of the RC/RR.
-    Act as the UN Focal Point in Government and Development Partners’ working groups at Cluster and theme group level, and provide substantive inputs to discussions and decisions in other related teams.
-    Support to the UNDAF annual review process and relevant technical advice towards the consolidation of progress reports.

Ensure knowledge building with national stakeholders, UN agencies and other partners focusing on achieving the following results;
-    Technical support to research activities, and participation in such activities as required.
-    Sound contributions to knowledge networks and communities of practice through identification of best practices and lessons learned in the area of Democratic Governance;
-    Participation in relevant knowledge networks, and application of practices and lessons learned that are relevant to Zimbabwe.
-    Contribute to knowledge management for UNDP in the program area of Democratic Governance and capacity building;
-    Contribution to knowledge development for the UN core team of in-country experts who provide policy/technical advisory services
-    Contribution to knowledge development for the national stakeholders and other partners as required

In close consultation with the UNDP and UN Country Team, the governance and capacity building advisor shall provide strategic guidance and substantive input that ensures governance and Capacity Development issues are constantly taken into account in formulating and implementing the ZUNDAF 2012-2015 and other planning instruments to achieve the following results;
-    Work plans and other inputs on governance and Capacity Development interventions for the various ZUNDAF Thematic groups and other planning instruments
-    To coordinate the participation of UNDP in the upcoming Capacity development needs assessment (ZCDNA) and other Capacity Development initiatives being pursued in collaboration with partners
-    A thorough follow- up on the implementation of the key results emanating from Capacity Development assessments which UNDP is a party
-    Coordination of all governance and capacity building activities for different partners which UNDP is partnering, including design and implementation
-    Advisory notes to the RC/RR, briefs and regular updates on governance and capacity development trends in Zimbabwe

3. Key Competencies

Corporate Competencies:
-    Demonstrates integrity by modeling the UN’s values and ethical standards
-    Promotes the vision, mission, and strategic goals of UNDP
-    Displays cultural, gender, religion, race, nationality and age sensitivity and adaptability
-    Treats all people fairly without favoritism

Functional Competencies:
-    Technical Expertise
-    Specialist knowledge in the area of Governance, preferably with in-depth expertise in one or several areas relating to parliamentary development, electoral processes, legal and judicial reforms, institution building, public administration reform, decentralization and Local Governance, human rights, capacity development, civic education and anti-corruption and conflict prevention and management.
-    Theoretical and practical knowledge of inter-disciplinary development and governance and capacity development issues
-    Strong understanding of political dynamics in government, civil society and the donor community in developing countries.
-    Ability to provide sound advice in a complex political environment

Knowledge Management and Learning
-    Shares knowledge and experience and contributes to UNDP Practice Areas and actively works towards continuing personal learning and development
-    Ability to provide top quality policy advice services on governance issues
-    In-depth practical knowledge of inter-disciplinary development issues Development and Operational Effectiveness
-    Ability to lead strategic planning, results-based management and reporting
-    Ability to go beyond established procedures and models, propose new approaches which expand the range of programs
-    Ability to work with minimal supervision
-    Ability to lead formulation and evaluation of development programs and projects
-    Ability to apply theory to the specific country context, carry out high-quality research

Management and Leadership
-    Focuses on impact and result for the client and responds positively to critical feedback
-    Encourages risk-taking in the pursuit of creativity and innovation
-    Leads teams effectively and shows conflict resolution skills
-    Consistently approaches work with energy and a positive, constructive attitude
-    Demonstrates strong writing, facilitation, and presentation skills
-    Builds strong relationships and networks with clients and external actors
-    Negotiation skills: capacity to work with diverse partners including Government, donors and civil society
-    Remains calm, in control and good humoured even under pressure

4.    Qualifications & Experience Education
-    Holder of an advanced degree (Masters) from an accredited university in social sciences, International Development, Public Policy, Law, Political Science, Public Administration or related discipline, preferably a Masters or PhD level

Experience
-    Successful candidate should have worked for a period not less than 15 years in the areas of Governance and
-    Capacity Development with proven experience on policy research and analysis in a governmental, multilateral or civil society organization, minimum 5 years in a developing country context
-    Familiarity with Governance reforms and pro-democracy and good governance issues in Sub-Saharan Africa a strong advantage
-    Experience in post conflict situations with sound knowledge on UNDP capacity development methodology   will be an added advantage.
-    Experience providing management advisory services in a multi-cultural environment
-    Hands-on experience in the design, implementation, and/or monitoring and evaluation of development projects
-    Experience working with Human Rights Institutions or working with Electoral/Parliamentary assistance will be an advantage
-    Knowledge and familiarity with the UN System and the mandates of UN Agencies will be an advantage
-    Evidence of research and publications in the broad area of governance will be an advantage
-    Excellent writing, facilitation and presentation skills
-    Experience in the use of computers and office software packages

5.    Language Requirements:
- Fluency in English.

Apply here http://jobs.undp.org/cj_view_job.cfm?job_id=20978

Please note that you will only be contacted if you are short-listed for this position. N.B. UNDP Zimbabwe reserves the right to select one or more candidates from this vacancy announcement.  We may also retain applications and consider candidates applying to this post for other similar positions with UNDP Zimbabwe at the same grade level and with similar job description, experience and education requirements.

Qualified And Experienced Female Candidates Are Encouraged To Apply.

7 (Seven) vacancies – International Medical Corps (IMC)
Deadline: 25 February 2011 (5pm)

International Medical Corps (IMC) is a non-governmental organization operating in Mashonaland Central Province implementing emergency response and developmental programmes. IMC is seeking to recruit the following positions, based in Bindura.

Program Assistant (1 Post)

Reporting to Field Site Coordinator

Responsibilities:

* Conducting extensive community sensitisation activities
* Community outreach and mobilisation for hygiene promotion
* Training and oversight of Village Health Workers activities
* Provide technical assistance to VHWs school and clinic staff on hygiene practices

Qualifications/Person Specification;

* Qualification in Hygiene, Community Health or Public Health
* Experience in community led or community-based hygiene management

Logistics Assistant (1 Post)

Reporting to Logistics Officer

Responsibilities:

* Onward reporting on Fleet ,Assets ,Stock and procurement to the Logistics Officer
* Prepare draft contracts for leases ,transport and any other services as required
* Management of assets including maintenance of an up to date inventory list
* Supervise all field drivers
* Implementation of all logistics systems/procedures according to instructions from the Logistics Officer, ensuring compliance with IMC and donor guidelines

Qualification/Person Specification;

* Recognized qualification in logistics and supplies management plus two years continuous experience in similar position
* Strong skills in Ms Excel a must, knowledge of computerized stocks and asset management software an added advantage
* Previous experience working in an NGO highly desirable

Community Hygiene Assistants (5 Posts)

Reporting to Field Site Co-ordinator

Responsibilities:

* Investigating disease outbreaks
* Assisting in the preparation and compilation of assessment, survey, activity and evaluation reports
* Support monitoring and evaluation of program activities
* Assist in the implementation of programme activities as needed

Qualification/Person Specification:

* Diploma in Public Health, Community Hygiene or Health Promotion
* Previous experience working in an NGO highly desirable

To apply please send a CV and application letter, citing the position being applied for, to the attention of:

The Human Resources & Administration Officer
International Medical Corps (IMC)
17 Lawson Ave
Milton Park
Harare

Or via email to: tchari [at] internationalmedicalcorps [dot] org

Technical Support Hub Manager: East, Central and Southern Africa Technical Support Hub – Based in Nairobi, Kenya
Deadline: 7 March 2011 (Noon GMT)

The mission of the International HIV/AIDS (the Alliance) is to reduce the spread of HIV and meet the challenges of AIDS. The Alliance seeks to recruit a Manager for its Regional Technical Support Hub for East, Central and Southern Africa. The Hub aims to scale up regionally based technical support provision to countries in the region, to increase South to South learning, and use of appropriate evidence based programme approaches to reduce the impact of HIV and AIDS in the region.

The position is an exciting opportunity for someone with an entrepreneurial mind, the skills, experience and drive to lead and develop a newly formed structure to increase capacity to respond to the HIV epidemic. The ideal candidate will be a dynamic individual with a broad-based technical background in HIV/AIDS, as well as strong management and negotiation skills to lead the team of TS providers.

Applicants for this challenging post must have a relevant post-graduate degree excellence and credibility as a technical support provider and/or as manager of an institution providing technical support, and experience from working in more than one country in the region. S/he will also have proven experience of working with civil society.

For further details about this position, including job description, person specification, closing date and how to apply please see our ‘employment opportunities’ section on the Alliance website www.aidsalliance.org

The International HIV/AIDS Alliance is committed to equal opportunities and welcomes applications from appropriately qualified people from all sections of the community. Qualified people living with HIV are particularly encouraged to apply.

Programme Development and Funding Advisor: VSO-RAISA – Based in Pretoria with regional travel
Deadline: 7 March 2011 (Midday)

VSO is an international development charity that works through volunteers.

An exciting opportunity has risen for a self-motivated individual to play a key role to support VSO’s Regional AIDS Initiative for Southern Africa (RAISA), with all aspects of project development and funding. RAISA is a regional project of VSO, which is aimed at strengthening the capacity of civil society and government to develop and implement multi-sectoral responses to HIV & AIDS challenges. RAISA works in six southern African countries: Malawi, Mozambique, Namibia, South Africa, Zambia and Zimbabwe.

You will provide advisory support to RAISA country programmes to plan projects and develop high quality proposals to attract significant amounts of funding, and ensure that programme staff can manage these projects in line with each donor’s terms and conditions. At a regional level you will lead and provide direct support for proposal development and contract management issues.

You must be target-driven, with proven success of identifying and securing funds for development work from major institutional and corporate donors, as well as trusts and foundations. An excellent understanding of overseas development issues and excellent interpersonal, donor networking and communication skills are essential. Experience of HIV and AIDS programming, developing programme staff capacity through on the job support and training and knowledge of the southern Africa donor environment would be a distinct advantage.

Remuneration for the post is set at R331,360 per annum with additional benefits of comprehensive medical cover and a provident contribution of 8.5%.

A detailed job description, person specification and application from are available by emailing vsosa.jobs [at] vsoint [dot] org

Anticipated Interview Date: Thursday 24 March 2011

Please note that this post is only open to people who are legally entitled to work in South Africa.


Co-ordinator – Zimbabwe Human Rights NGO Forum International (formerly International Liaison Office, Zimbabwe Human Rights NGO Forum) – Location: London, UK
Deadline: 15 March 2011

Overall responsibilities: The Co-ordinator has the overall responsibilities for running the office outside of Zimbabwe, including overseeing implementation of policies of the Board especially on international lobby and advocacy. The Co-ordinator is also responsible for planning, fundraising and personnel responsibilities.

Main Duties:

Lobby and advocacy: Develop a plan, generate documents for lobby and advocacy around positions taken by the Forum on various human rights issues; carry out international lobby and advocacy at treaty based human rights monitoring and protection mechanisms such as the Committee against Torture, UN Human Rights Committee and the Committee on Economic, Social and Cultural Rights; and lobby governments, intergovernmental and international organizations to ensure implementation of regional and international human rights bodies’ decisions.

Policy reform documents and research: Lead the Office in contributing to discussions on policy reform in various human rights thematic areas through research and production of research material; and produce analyses and critiques of the reform processes in Zimbabwe and advocate for legal, security and judicial reforms.

Information generation: Produce and disseminate information on what will be happening in the human rights terrain in Zimbabwe; lead in information packaging, keep a tag on and send out Newsflashes on pronouncements by the Government, politicians, the judiciary and any other body on the goings on in Zimbabwe with regards to human rights issues.

Finance and administration duties: The Co-ordinator will be responsible for the overall financial management (planning, budgeting, accounting and reporting) and human resource and administrative management of the Office. S/he will also be expected to provide strategic leadership and guidance in developing and implementing guidelines and procedures governing finance, human resources and administration support systems. S/he will be responsible for managing and dealing with multi-donors.

Reporting: Writing progress and final narrative reports to the Executive Director and funding partners on the projects managed by the Office. Salary The Co-ordinator shall be paid in accordance with the Forum’s salary structure.

Person Specification:

-    A Postgraduate Degree in Social Sciences, Politics, International Relations or Law.
-    Demonstrable experience of working with human rights NGOs, governments, and intergovernmental and international organisations.
-    At least five years working experience in a related job in a managerial position.
-    Knowledge and experience of the Zimbabwean human rights and political environment.
-    Demonstrable understanding of UK legislation governing Charity and human rights NGOs; and knowledge and experience of the UK and EU working environment.
-    This job requires a self-motivated team player committed to the preservation and promotion of human rights.
-    Please note: UK and/ or EU work authorization (for non-British applicants) will be an added advantage.

We Are An Equal Opportunities Employer

Apply immediately by sending your CV and a cover letter and explaining how you meet the requirements to the Executive Director: admin [at] hrforum [dot] co [dot] zw or hr [at] hrforum [dot] co [dot] zw

Zimbabweans celebrate with Egyptians

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Monday, February 14th, 2011 by Amanda Atwood

After Mubarak’s resignation was announced on Friday, we sent out this text message to our subscribers:

Kubatana! People power brings down 30 year dictatorship in Egypt. Mubarak has resigned. Cairo is celebrating.

Below are some of the replies – which give a sense of how similar many Zimbabweans view the two countries’ situations to be:

  • There were 10 dictators hanging on the wall & if 2 dictators should accidentally fall there’ll be 8 dictators hanging on the wall and if 1 dictator should accidentally fall there’ll be 7 ….And so on!
  • Happy, hapy, hapy new Egypt!! Mubarak is gone. Unitd, ple cn do it. Who’s nxt? Free Africa’s cmng
  • Thank God! hope the same wl happen in Zim!
  • SO THAT MUST TAKE PLACE IN MOST STATES WITH SAME RULERS.THANK YOU.
    WE LIKE THAT
  • Yhus good and it proves that people power is heavier than indvidual power
  • Ko isiwo todii?
  • Lets pray Zimbabwens can do the same.
  • Where next?
  • Aluta continua!
  • SAME SHOULD HAPPEN MAP OUT STRATEGY
  • Congratulations
  • MAKOROKOTO EGYPT. THE PEOPLE  HAS GOT POWER, THE POWER IS WITHIN THE PEOPLE… secrifice and determination breed success.
  • Go egypt go
  • People’s power counts. The emancipation in Egypt is for us all. God is for us all.
  • We are also celebrating.
  • Thanks for the news.African dictators should go
  • I saw it coming! A lesson 4 other leaders.
  • Great!This shld b a new beginning 4 Egyptians and there shld b zero tolerance 2 US/Israeli interference in the next political dispensation
  • Thanx dictorship must end in zimba
  • Lets be vigilant and celebrate
  • The voice of the pple is the voice of God. Long live Egypt. Long live Zim
  • IN EVERY WAR THERE HAS TO BE BLOODSHED  THE INNOCENT OR THE GUILTY ! BUT THE INNOCENT WILL ALWAYS PREVAIL, BY  GOD’S GRACE. FORWARD WITH REFORMATION AND REVOLUTION. CHANGE WE WANT AND IT WILL BE.
  • Strong will, courage and determination is all it takes to change the world.
  • Thats something to smile about.hope the same will happen in zw
  • What a relief. Surely where there is a will there is a way. In the name of the almighty GOD let us wait for the next one in line to follow suit.
  • Praise God Next Is . . .
  • We Zimbabweans should follow what has been done in Egypt.

Valentine’s Day

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Monday, February 14th, 2011 by Bev Clark

For every girl who is tired of acting weak when she is strong, there is a boy tired of appearing strong when he feels vulnerable. For every boy who is burdened with the constant expectation of knowing everything, there is a girl tired of people not trusting her intelligence. For every girl who is tired of being called over-sensitive, there is a boy who fears to be gentle, to weep. For every boy for whom competition is the only way to prove his masculinity, there is a girl who is called unfeminine when she competes. For every boy struggling not to let advertising dictate his desires, there is a girl facing the ad industry’s attacks on her self-esteem. For every girl who takes a step toward her liberation, there is a boy who finds the way to freedom a little easier.
- Poster from CrimethInc. Ex-Workers’ Collective