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

Please note that the job vacancies we carry are related to the NGO and civil society sectors only.

Administrative/Accounting Assistant: The African Capacity Building Foundation (ACBF)
Deadline: 31 January 2012

Department: Australia Africa Community Engagement Scheme (AACES) Resources Facility
Duty station: Harare
Duration of contract: One year

The African Capacity Building Foundation (ACBF) is an autonomous foundation, sponsored by the African Development Bank and United Nations Development Programme (UNDP). ACBF enjoys support from a wide range of bilateral donors and African governments as full partners to the development of human and institutional capacities

In January 2012, ACBF was contracted by AusAID, the Australian Agency for International Development, as Resource Facility Manager for the Australia Africa Community Engagement Scheme. AusAID assists developing countries reduce poverty and achieve sustainable development. The AACES supports the work of ten (10) Australian Non-Governmental Organisations (NGOs) and their Africa-based partners to deliver measurable outcomes in three priority sectors: food security; material and child health; water supply, hygiene and sanitation. The Resource Facility will support the communication, coordination and management of the AACES. It will provide other technical services as required.

AACES Resource Facility managed by ACBF, on behalf, of AusAID is seeking applications for an Administrative/Accounting Assistant to be employed on a one-year contract. The incumbent will support the Resource Facility to ensure high standard of service delivery with the following duties and responsibilities

Duties and Responsibilities

Administrative:
-Provide administrative and secretarial assistance to staff of the Resource Facility
-Provide support with travel arrangements for consultants including accommodation arrangements and acquisitions of visas
-Manage files and records of the Resource Facility for easy access and security of information
-Provide support in planning, coordinating and organizing events such as meetings, workshops, conferences and site-visits by AusAID officials
-Provide support to the Resource Facility Coordinator on other relevant tasks

Accounting:
-Prepare and process payments for consultants
-Record all receipts and expenses in relation to the procurement of goods and services by the Resource Facility
-Ensure an orderly and systematic filing system of procurement and other transactions records
-Prepare quarterly Statements of Expenditure
-Maintain the Register of Assets

Desired Qualifications, Experiences:
-A minimum of a Bachelor’s Degree in Business Administration, Modern Languages, or related field. A Diploma in Secretarial Studies would be an added advantage
-A minimum of five years experience as an administrative and accounting assistant, preferably in an international setting
-A minimum of two years practical experience in event planning and organizing
-Fluency in English

How to Apply
Applications, quoting the ‘administrative/accounting assistant’, including curriculum vitae with three (3) referees should be received at the address below. Only candidates meeting the foundations requirements will be contacted.

The Human Resources Manager, The African Capacity Building Foundation, P.O Box 1562, Harare, Zimbabwe.

Email: root [at] acbf-pact [dot] org

Webmaster/Editor: The African Capacity Building Foundation (ACBF)
Deadline: 31 January 2012

Position: Webmaster/Editor
Department: Australia Africa Community Engagement Scheme (AACES) Resource Facility
Duty station: Harare
Duration of Contract: One year

The African Capacity Building Foundation (ACBF) is an autonomous foundation, sponsored by the African Development Bank and United Nations Development Programme (UNDP). ACBF enjoys support from a wide range of bilateral donors and African governments as full partners to the development of human and institutional capacities.

In January 2012, ACBF was contracted by AusAID, the Australian Agency for International Development, as Resource Facility Manager for the Australia Africa Community Engagement Scheme. AusAID assists developing countries to reduce poverty and achieve sustainable development. The AACES supports the work of ten (10) Australian Non-Governmental Organisations (NGOs) and their Africa-based partners to deliver measurable outcomes in three priority sectors: food security; material and child health; water supply, hygiene and sanitation. The Resource Facility will support the communication, coordination and management of the AACES. It will provide other technical services as required

AACES Resource Facility managed by ACBF, on behalf, of AusAID is seeking applications for a webmaster/editor to be employed on a one-year contract. The incumbent will support the resource facility in coordinating the communication activities of the AACES. He/she will have primary responsibility for the management of the AACES internal websites as well developing high quality communications for stakeholders.

Duties and Responsibilities
-Review and make recommendations on the configuration of the website
-Upload relevant materials for shared learning purposes and use creative ways to ensure lively discussions/debate and sustained activity by the membership
-Develop and upgrade regularly a contacts/distribution list of individuals and organisations that will receive the AACES updates and reports
-Set targets, gather feedback, monitor and report on website usage to ensure that it meets the needs of members
-Maintain databases; perform basic website security management tasks
-Provide basic technical support to members
-Provide editorial support to the Resource Facility Coordinator (papers, briefs, power point presentations, etc)
-Provide support for the development of the AACES communications strategy
-Provide support to the resource facility coordinator on the other relevant tasks

Desired Qualifications, Experiences and Competencies
-Bachelor’s Degree in Journalism/Communication studies with minor in ICT, or related fields
-Sound knowledge and practical experience in web and portal authoring tools, desktop publishing applications, web tracking tools and Microsoft Office Softwares
-Knowledge and experience in database management tools, flash, style sheets and scripting tools and other web development and graphic applications
-A minimum of two years of practical experience in the maintenance and content administration of corporate websites
-Good interpersonal skills and excellent communication skills coupled with the ability to work in a multicultural environment
-Fluency in English

How to Apply
Applications, quoting ‘Webmaster/Editor’, including curriculum vitae with three 3 referees should be received at the address below. Only candidates meeting the foundations requirements will be contacted.

The Human Resources Manager, The African Capacity Building Foundation, P.O Box 1562, Harare Zimbabwe.

Email: root [at] acbf-pact [dot] org

2 x Project Officers – Community Based Planning: Norwegian Refugee Council (NRC)
Deadline: 3 February 2012

The Norwegian Refugee Council (NRC) is an independent international humanitarian organisation. NRC is working in Chiredzi and Chipinge districts with Food Security and Livelihoods and Education projects. NRC uses the concept of community based planning (CBP) to inform its other programme interventions.

The CBP officer is responsible for:
-Developing and implementing CBP workshops in selected communities
-Develop strategic partnerships with local authorities and civil society organisations
-Support the engagement of youth and gender mainstreaming in CBP
-Refer needs for the humanitarian assistance within NRC or to other relevant humanitarian organisations in other districts
-Ensure the development and implementation of the project’s M&E and earning and accountability tools
-Other tasks given by Country Director or Project Co-ordinator

Required Qualifications
-Higher education in Development Studies, Law, Political Sciences or other relevant field
-At least 3 years of work experience working with local communities, preferably with a Non-Governmental Organisation
-Experience in training and workshops at the community level
-Excellence in evidence-based advocacy
-Excellent computer knowledge (including Microsoft Office)
-Familiar with use of email and electronic data processing
-Excellent knowledge of English and Shona, written and oral
-Preference will be given to qualified candidates based in Chipinge or Chiredzi with a proven track record of good relations with communities and authorities
-Knowledge of Shangani is an advantage

We are looking for a professional and reliable person with an impeccable work record, high personal integrity, an excellent team player, good communication skills and high sense of responsibility.

Please send written applications including CV to: Norwegian Refugee Council, 12 Rochester Crescent, Alexandra Park, Harare or by email to fam [at] zimbabwe.nrc [dot] no with a copy to pcr [at] zimbabwe.nrc [dot] no

Senior Programme Officer – Peace Building and Conflict Prevention: NANGO
Deadline: 3 February 2012

NANGO Vacancy Notice 2/12

Location: Harare

The National Association of Non – Governmental Organisations (NANGO) is the secretariat of the Church and Civil Society Forum (CCSF); a collaborative platform of the Church and Civil Society Organisations working on issues of peace and national healing. NANGO requires the services of a qualified and experienced Senior Programme Officer to support the CCSF in carrying out its mandate.

Responsibilities
-Support the Management Committee and the Thematic Cluster coordinators in formulation of and implementation of work plans and other mechanisms for enhancing member participation in CCSF activities
-Design and manage the database for the Thematic Cluster Programmes including M&E systems, tools and templates to monitor performance. This includes developing log frames, data collection tools, as well as processes for data analysis and storage
-Develop indicator tracking tools measuring program performance indicators to supporting reporting and needs of partners
-Develop monthly indicator tracking sheets for monitoring of program achievement on a monthly basis
-Advise and assist Project Coordinator and the Management Committee to design and implement appropriate evaluation methodologies, including surveys, as is necessary to support work of the coalition partners
-Conduct regular field visits to program sites to identify gaps in timeliness and quality of data reporting and work with relevant partners to address the gaps
-Coordinate the production of timely reports to track performance and progress, according to standard procedures and templates
-Provide support to the program team and Management Committee in compiling reports, stressing the importance of data quality, indicator-based reporting and analysis of trends and the achievement of program objectives
-Participate in the strategic planning and envisioning processes for the programme
-Ensure adherence to guiding principles of confidentiality on data management
-Perform any other duties necessary for the fulfilment of the goals of the programme.

Skills specific to the post
-Knowledge of conflict prevention mechanisms and frameworks
-Understanding of the nature and structure of both the Church and Civil Society in Zimbabwe
-Ability to produce analytical reports
-Good communication skills, appropriate to the audience
-Competence in using information technology including experience with word-processing, spreadsheets and database software
-Ability to work in a multidisciplinary and multicultural environment
-Team-building, training and coaching skills
-Good interpersonal and inter-cultural skills

Qualifications and experience
Masters degree in Conflict Management, Law, Social Science, International Relations, Development or related discipline, an additional certificate or specific training in Monitoring and Evaluation at a recognized institution is an advantage.

At least 4 years working within the development context, with a focus on peace building, research, and M&E.

Applicants must be conversant in Ndebele and English fluently, both written and spoken.

Qualified candidates should send their detailed CVs and cover letters to The Project Coordinator using the following email address: machinda [at] nango [dot] org [dot] zw

All those who previously submitted applications for this post need not resubmit their applications. Only short listed candidates will be contacted for interviews.

Finance Officer: Camfed
Deadline: 6 February (4:30pm)

Job purpose is to provide efficient and effective support in delivery of financial services by processing of finance data as well as maintaining financial records of the organization.

Reports To: Finance Manager Financial Accounting

Specific duties & responsibilities
-Checking correctness and authenticity of requests for payments
-Processing payments (preparation of cheques and direct bank transfers), including:
-Compiling payment requests for weekly run
-Ensuring completeness in the weekly payment run listing ready for submission to bank
-Staff travel expenses (reviewing and reconciling receipts)
-Programme expenditure (workshop expenses such as bus fare re-imbursements)
-Handling petty cash transactions
-Weekly data input of income & expenditure into the financial systems (SUNsystems)
-Preparation of weekly cash requests
-Maintain petty cash on an imprest system
-Preparation of weekly bank reconciliations
-Review and process financial reports from districts and other partners
-Ensuring that all financial records are properly filed, labelled and safely stored
-Fixed asset register maintenance and calculation of depreciation
-Verification of fixed assets
-Assist in the monthly analysis of ledger balances
-Assisting in the preparation of quarterly and year-end accounts as well as audit process
-    Any other duties as assigned by line manager and/or Senior Management Team of CAMFED

Person specification

Essential
-Higher National diploma/degree in accounting
-An aptitude for numbers and strong attention to detail
-Fast learner and highly organised
-Ability to work to deadlines
-Excellent communication skills, initiative and enthusiasm and proven integrity
-Good level of skill in MS Excel
-At least 2 years in similar role

Desirable
-Part- qualified in CIS, ACCA or CIMA.
-Knowledge of SUNsystems accounting package.
-Working experience in NGO sector.

To apply, please submit your CV in person or clearly marked “Finance Officer” to:

The Executive Assistant
CAMFED Zimbabwe
6 Lanark Road
Harare, Zimbabwe

Or via email to: pjamu [at] camfed [dot] org

UNOCHA Programme Analyst: National Humanitarian Officer/ Disaster Preparedness: UNDP
Deadline: 7 February 2012

(Zimbabwean Nationals Only)

Location: Harare
Type of Contract: FTA Local Post
Level: NO-B
Languages Required: English
Starting Date: (date when the selected candidate is expected to start) 1 March 2012
Duration of Initial Contract: 1 year

Zimbabwe’s humanitarian situation remains in a state of fragile stability due to the unaddressed degradation of the basic sector infrastructure, underpinned by economic and political challenges.   As a part of the UN Secretariat, the task of OCHA is to mobilize and coordinate effective and principled humanitarian action in partnership with national and international actors. In this respect, the OCHA Country Office in Zimbabwe continues to work towards strengthening humanitarian coordination and relationships with humanitarian partners, and other relevant actors to advance humanitarian action. Enhanced engagement and partnership with counterparts in the Government, NGOs, regional bodies and donors allows efficient response and transparent coordination with participation of all key stakeholders. To ensure an efficient humanitarian response the OCHA Office continues to ensure response planning based on rigorous and jointly assessed situation analysis. With increased information management capacities, the office focuses on tailoring more user oriented information products to better support inclusive assessments, planning and community based programming as well as ensuring a more systematic coordination of the common humanitarian programme cycle. Given the current and anticipated humanitarian needs and gaps, OCHA Zimbabwe continues to support the Humanitarian Coordinator (HC) and the Humanitarian Country Team (HCT), facilitate humanitarian coordination at national and field level; provide information management services to all humanitarian actors; create linkages between humanitarian and recovery fora in view of political and socio-economic improvements; and provide support to Government and other partners in strengthening disaster preparedness and response capacities. Find out more

Sheltered beneath cool thatch
surrounded by green lawns and fig trees

a circle of Zimbabwean women sit passing a stone
sewing beads onto a red velvet cloth as each one spoke

women’s work

they cross three generations
mothers, wives, sisters, daughters, grandmothers
facilitators, lawyers, counselors, activists

What is it, we asked, that we celebrate about being women?
‘Our ability to love,
to take responsibility for our children, our families
to take responsibility for the food, and the schooling
our ability to hold serious jobs
to talk about our feelings
to share the load’

And what is difficult about being  women here, at this time?

‘Being disrespected
often abused,
by the men with whom we live
sexual harassment
political rape and violence’

It was a story of attrition and overwhelming responsibility

One of the elders spoke
of the infidelities of her husband
of the pain it had cause her young soul
as she watched over her small children

and of the growing strength of realization
that she was the one

she would not seek what was impossible
she would take the responsibility
and do the work
and love her children
because she had the courage and strength to do it

of the power and satisfaction her life had brought her
of the wonderful children she had grown into the world
of the circles of women she shared her life with

They spoke of strong, enduring, loving mothers
of the father who had supported one young woman’s journey
allowed her the freedom to make her own choices
of her gratitude for this trust in her abilities

They spoke of the ‘enemy within’
their own jealousies
of women’s part in infidelities
the insecurity they carried

And then they looked at what they could change
and of holding circles with men

It is the first conversation of many, many conversations

everything changes

SW Radio Africa (London) reports that ‘Hundreds turned out for the Global Free Zimbabwe protests’. The protests were organised by MDC-T in an effort to pressure the South African government and SADC to ensure that ZANU PF is forced to honour the Global Political Agreement.

Zimbabwe vigil organiser, Rose Benton explained to SW Radio Africa that the London part of the protests was ‘a very big success’. The Zimbabwean community in London is estimated to number 100 000 and is largely concentrated in London. An estimated 300 gathered for the protest there.

It is estimated that millions of Zimbabweans reside outside the country’s borders. However, globally, less than 1000 people participated. Success, I suppose, is relative.

As one half of government and a party to the GPA itself, I wonder at the naiveté shown by the organisers of the protests. There is no denying that ZANU PF has stymied implementation of the GPA. But after having fought for democracy for so long, I would have hoped that MDC-T might have formulated a different strategy that best utilises the tools they have at hand. Contrary to what the MDC-T would have Zimbabweans in the Diaspora believe, it is not entirely powerless in government. Combined all the MDC factions hold a majority in both houses of Parliament. Given these circumstances it is surprising that key provisions to the GPA such as amendments to POSA and AIPPA are yet to be passed into law.

Like ZANU PF, MDC-T has consistently failed to deliver on its promises to the people of Zimbabwe. These protests are nothing more than a mass diversion to take away attention from the real issues and dissociate that party from the mess it too has made of this transitional period. Moreover, MDC-T has gotten into the disturbing habit of looking for a big brother in its fight with ZANU PF. The MDC-T persists in appealing to an international community that is largely fatigued of the Zimbabwean situation and is plagued by its own problems. By doing so, MDC-T plays directly into the hands of ZANU PF who accuse the party’s leadership of letting their decisions be made by foreign ambassadors. Acquiring power is a struggle in itself, the difficulties of which should never be underestimated. No amount of hand-wringing and petition signing is going to make it any easier. After years of South African mediation and questionable sanctions, none of which have been effective in wresting power from ZANU PF, MDC-T really should know better. And if that party cannot hold its own, it shouldn’t be in the ring.

Tell me; are any of your resolutions surviving January?

I decided to steer clear of the usual suspects this year – the diet, the exercise, the booze ban.  Instead I prayed for wisdom, maturity (mental, not physical obviously – you only want to be older when you are 12 and ¾’s), tolerance, restraint and grace – assuming that the diet, the exercise and the booze ban will follow as a matter of course (ha!).

These resolutions are a journey, rather than a destination (some have pointed out the potential ease of reneging and have questioned my motivation – or lack of – quite uncharitably I feel) but I do have one outstanding from last year that I hope to complete this year (and it is measurable).  It involves a reading list – the point being to read a number of books (over 100 on the list) which are selected (by a panel of academics) based on their impact on society at the time they were written (and none of them are new) or through history – whether due to literary style or content.  Some of them are painful, so painful that my Kindle remained untouched on my bedside table for weeks, and I have struggled all the way to the end of others, still not having discovered the reason they were chosen to be on The List in the first place.  Anyway, I shall persevere.

Daniel started “big school” this year.  My eyes brimmed as I took 101 photos of his first day, complete with too-long-shorts and large floppy hat.  He went off (tearful mother clutching large bog roll – you want to take a new one, not one that has dwindled to a few discreet nose-blows, and forget the dainty multi-coloured tissues – your nose will break right through and you’ll have finished the lot before you reach the car) cheerfully waving good-bye, after a hasty kiss and “I love you mom”.  I had so much to say. I was brimming with well-meaning advice on playground and bathroom etiquette. I was prepared for the “I don’t want to” battle complete with temper tantrum and tears.  And I was left, bereft and forlorn, looking after my departing child, my baby, his little satchel bouncing off his back as he ran into school.  I almost ran after him.

Tyla had her very first spelling test ever. And, after 2 afternoons of coaching and oral repetition in the car (Daniel being loudly shushed into silence), she got all her words right – I can feel my chest puffing out as I sit here.  She is enjoying Grade 2 less than she expected (things are so hard).  Still, I am always proud of her, although she may be daunted or nervous or scared, she always walks into a new situation with her chin up.

And so this year has been full of milestones already. We are well and truly launched into 2012, let’s try to remember our time here is finite – and make the best of it!

John Makumure writes in Newsday:

Many people must be wondering what has happened to the Public Order and Security Amendment (Posa) Bill that made history as the first private member Bill to be successfully introduced and passed by the House of Assembly.

The short answer is the Bill is stuck in the Senate after Zanu PF senators refused to pass it, arguing this was a matter negotiators to the Global Political Agreement (GPA) were seized with.

The Posa Amendment Bill seeks to make it easier for citizens to enjoy their civil liberties relating to the right to assemble, gather and demonstrate; curtail powers reposed in the police with respect to public gatherings; to clarify persons intending to demonstrate are required to notify the police and not to seek permission; and to ensure the police will be held to account in all cases where they use force to break public gatherings.

Read the rest of his article here