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Archive for February, 2012

Politics in Zimbabwe is a job

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Thursday, February 23rd, 2012 by Michael Laban

I open the Mail and Guardian to see a report on Malaria, and the drugs to (not) treat it, that are counterfeit and being brought in and sold. Cheap drugs, sold at full price. Very clever. If you want to make a quick buck. Get rich.

But not so clever (or should I say, criminally murderous), for the people of Africa, where it seems Malaria is developing strains that are impervious to drugs, since they only get a little bit of the drug, enough to kill off the weaker strains, and make the other strains hardy and impervious to further, larger doses. “That which does not kill us, makes us stronger” – the Neitzsche quote used in the Conan the Barbarian movies. So, we have malaria that cannot be cured. More people dieing. Surely the donors are wondering, “what the fff…” “why do we give?”

And you’ve got to agree with them! Who are African’s worst enemies?

Lets start with the Atlantic slave trade (the one to Brazil, Jamaica, Cuba, USA, not the one to Saudi Arabia and India). Who did the buying? The americans (north and south) and caribeans. Who did the transporting? The Europeans. And who did the selling? The Africans.

I was going to say, “Short term gain, long term disaster”, but it seems many of the slaves who survived are doing much better (even in Brazil where there still seems to be a racial problem) than the people who sold them (and Nigeria produces how much oil?) Not too many trying to get back. Even Obama (who at least is an Afro-American) is in no hurry to settle in to Granddad’s place.

So maybe the short term gain long term disaster is a recent thing? For example, rhino horn. That vital ingredient for… no, I am not sure exactly what it does. Something like viagra, does the same sort of thing, I think. Not that I need anything in that part of my anatomy!

So, why the unsustainable harvest? Surely, if you have this very valuable commodity, you want to keep the livelihood going? Why kill them all? You cannot reap what you did not sow. It makes little sense, in the long term. But then, what do I know? If I was involved in the trade I would poison the horn and kill all my customers.

The Herald of 15 January talks of new licence disks. That cannot be forged. Apparently the country has “an estimated vehicle population of 800 000. However, of these, only 478 000 were licensed authentically”. So, why don’t the roads work? Because we will not pay to use them. Sorry, but who uses our roads? The Filipinos? Australians? No, Zimbabweans (that is to say, Africans). And who will pay to fix the roads? Not half of the Zimbabweans it would seem. So who are African’s worst enemies? Africans.

Maybe we are being taught by our leaders. Following their example. Politics in Zimbabwe (like the rest of Africa) is a job. How do you know if you are successful in your job? You make lots of money. On other continents, it may be quite similar, but they have people who know this, and areas of industry (the press) who know how to ‘regulate’ them. But here, if you are good at your job you make a lot of money. If you are a good politician, you make a lot of money. Civil servant be damned. Public office? Get real. Besides, no one is there to check you. So, you go into politics to make money. And make it now, quickly. Short term gain. Long term? You are going to lose power in the long term anyways.

Why do we put up with unaccountable leaders? We pay their salaries. They work for us. They are our servants. Why do we put up with fellow Africans as our worst enemies? They work for you. Have them report back (in person) and tell you what they have done.

NGO job vacancies in Zimbabwe

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Tuesday, February 21st, 2012 by Bev Clark

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.


Community Mobiliser – Youth SRHR Project: Local NGO
Deadline: 24 February 2012

Stationed in Masvingo

Summary of Key Duties and Responsibilities
-Assist in communicating with stakeholders of the project
-Represent interests of the project as and when required
-Attend stakeholder meetings as requested, in accordance with agreements made by players in Sexual and Reproductive Health and Rights programming within the Masvingo province
-Assist in activity and event planning with support from the main project office
-Compile regular update reports
-Identify areas of potential project growth, increase effectiveness, and strengthen impact
-Facilitate media coverage of project activities
-Advise on all necessary stakeholder engagement protocols

The candidate must:
-Have relevant experience/exposure in coordinating youth sexual and reproductive health activities
-Have good knowledge of youth development projects, preferably in the Masvingo Province
-Be resident in the Masvingo Province
-Have good cross-organisational networking skills
-Have good event management skills
-Have good oral and written communication skills
-Be prepared to travel extensively within the Masvingo province

Applications marked Community Mobiliser must be sent to: info [at] pastime [dot] org [dot] zw or hand delivered to No. 68 McChlery Ave, Eastlea, Harare

Late applications will not be considered.

Administrator: Local NGO
Deadline: 24 February 2012

Applications are invited from suitably qualified and experienced persons to fill the above position based in Harare.

Key duties and responsibilities
Reporting to the Finance and Administration Manager, the following duties and responsibilities apply:

Front office management
-Welcome visitors and callers, handle their inquiries, and direct them to the appropriate persons according to their needs
-Schedule and confirm appointments for clients, customers, or supervisors
-Maintain scheduling and event calendars

Finance and procurement related issues
-Processing payments
-Recording all bank deposits and receipts processed by other staff
-Maintain Petty cash float
-Prepare cash books and Bank reconciliations
-Procurement and issuing of office supplies (stationery and grocery)

Administration
-Typing and minute taking in meetings
-Maintain the vehicle log books and asset register
-Overseeing the work of the logistics officer

Filing system
-Set up and maintain paper and electronic filing systems for records, correspondence, and other material
-Open, read, route, and distribute incoming mail and other material, and prepare answers to routine letters

Website
-Maintain the website
-Work closely with the Programs Assistant on the website as a link with the Programmes

External related work
-Assist in the arrangement conferences, meetings, and travel reservations for office personnel
-Engaging with relevant service providers and secure travel and accommodation arrangements for personnel.

Qualifications and Experience
-Degree/Diploma in Administration
-At least 5 years experience in Administration of NGOs
-Good interpersonal skills
-Proficiency in written and spoken English
-Works well under pressure, with minimal supervision

Salary: USD700

To apply: Submit your cover letter and detailed CV electronically to: vacancya4 [at] gmail [dot] com

Education Officer ETF: UNICEF
Deadline: 26 February 2012

Vacancy Notice No. Zim/2012:16
NOB Level (Fixed Term Post)

Position being re-advertised and previous applicants will be considered, no need to reapply.

Purpose of the Job
The successful candidate will be accountable for the professional technical contribution to the Education Transition Fund (ETF) project design, planning, administration, monitoring and evaluation, data analysis and progress reporting. Commitment for enhancement of teamwork and capacity building, in support of achievement of planned ETF objectives of the work plan, aligned with Zimbabwe country programme goals and strategy. He or she will ensure the availability of accurate, complete and up-to-date information required for effective ETF project including project design, implementation, management, monitoring and evaluation. This involves enhancing ETF project efficiency and effectiveness through implementation follow-up, including monitoring UNICEF inputs, local conditions and resources, partner coordination, flow of supply and non-supply assistance and ETF project status.

Key result areas for this post include
1.Support the coordination of education partners linked to the ETF programme, including Government, non-government and private sector, with a specific focus on organisations working on out of school children and children at risk of dropping out of school.
2.Closely liaise with the TVET advisor with regard to out of school technical education programmes.
3.Work closely with provincial and district education officers to assist with identification of needs in relation to ETF activities, with a specific focus on sector planning work and learning supply requirements.
4.Work closely with MoESAC to support the legislative reform process linked to the ETF objective of improved school governance.
5.Work closely with the Education Cluster to support disaster risk reduction planning in schools.
6.Ensuring the appropriateness of financial, administrative and supply documentation, verify that ETF project expenditures are within allotments and that data is consistent with the project information and database.
7.Following up on queries or initiate corrective action on discrepancies. Ensure the effective communication and networking developed and maintained through partnership and collaboration.

Qualifications and Competencies
-University degree in any of the following areas:  Education, Primary Education, Economics, Social Sciences, or related fields relevant to international development assistance, preferably advanced university degree.
-At least 2 years progressively responsible professional work experience in relevant field.
-Demonstrable expertise in partner coordination in the education sector.
-Ability to work in a multicultural environment.

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 letter and curriculum vitae quoting vacancy notice number to the following address:

Human Resources Manager
(Vacancy Notice No. 16: Zim-2012)
UNICEF, 6 Fairbridge Avenue,
P O Box 1250, Belgravia, Harare

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

Only short listed candidates will be contacted.

Child Protection Specialist: UNICEF
Deadline: 26 February 2012

Vacancy Notice No. 2012:15
NO-C Level based in Harare

Position being re-advertised and previous applicants will be considered, no need to reapply.

Purpose of the post
A unique opportunity has arisen for a qualified and experienced individual who will have ample scope to directly impact women’s and children’s rights in Zimbabwe The successful candidate will be reporting to the Child Protection Specialist and accountable for effective engagement in child sensitive social protection policy and programme dialogue with the Government including the development of a social protection policy framework that is child and HIV/AIDS sensitive. This also includes implementing a national child-sensitive social protection programme of social cash transfers to the poorest and most vulnerable children and households.

Key result areas for this post include
-Manage external baselines and follow up surveys to collect data on the efficiency, effectiveness and impact of the cash transfer programme under the NAP for OVC II.
-Monitoring state budget resources for social protection.
-Conduct routine output monitoring linked to the cash transfer programme under the NAP for OVC II together with relevant stakeholders.
-Support Government to implement a national case management system linked to the delivery of social cash to enable children affected by violence, exploitation and abuse and in receipt of social cash transfers, are effectively referred and followed up in line with national and international child protection standards.
-Ensures that the social protection efforts facilitate policy dialogue, planning, supervision, technical advice, management, training, research and support; and that the monitoring and evaluation component strengthens monitoring and evaluation of the social protection and child protection sectors.

Minimum Qualifications and Experience Required
-Advanced University Degree in Social Sciences, law, child development or a related field.
-At least five years of professional work experience in the UN or other international development organization/ private sector, national government or fieldwork experience.
-Fieldwork experience in social protection of at least 3 years.
-Demonstrated analytical ability, and the capacity to develop strategies while working under pressure.
-Specific programming expertise related to child and/or social protection an asset.
-Good project management and coordination skills.

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 letter together with resume quoting vacancy notice number to the following address.

Human Resources Manager
(Vacancy Notice No. Zim2012/15)
UNICEF, 6 Fairbridge Avenue,
P O Box 1250
Belgravia, Harare

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

Only short listed candidates will be contacted.

Procurement Associate: UNDP
Deadline: 28 February 2012

Location: Harare
Type of Contract: FTA Local Post
Level: GS-6
Languages Required: English
Starting Date: (date when the selected candidate is expected to start) 01-Apr-2012 Duration of Initial Contract: 1 year

Background
Under the guidance and supervision of the Procurement Analyst, the Procurement Associate ensures execution of transparent and efficient procurement services and processes in the Country Office (CO). The Procurement Associate promotes a client-focused, quality and results-oriented approach in the Unit. The Procurement Associate can supervise clerical and support staff of the Procurement Unit. The Procurement Associate works in close collaboration with the operations, programme and projects’ staff in the CO and UNDP HQs staff for resolving complex procurement-related issues and information exchange. Find out more


Research, Monitoring and Evaluation Officer: SAfAIDS
Deadline: 29 February 2012

Location: Harare

Southern Africa HIV and AIDS Information Dissemination Service (SAfAIDS, www.safaids.net) is a regional NGO based in Harare, Zimbabwe, with country offices in Mozambique, South Africa, Swaziland and Zambia. The organisation’s mission is to promote effective and ethical development responses to the epidemic and its impact through HIV and AIDS knowledge management, capacity development, advocacy, policy analysis and documentation. SAfAIDS is looking for a Research, Monitoring and Evaluation Officer to join its dynamic team.

This post requires a skilled individual, with experience in research, design and implementation of monitoring and evaluation systems as well as management skills. Candidates must have excellent written and verbal communication skills, computer literacy, self-motivation, flexibility, adaptability and the capacity to work under pressure, individually and in teams.

Requirements
-A Masters degree in statistics, demography, epidemiology, public health or related field.
-Minimum of 6 years hands on experience in monitoring and evaluation: designing, preparing and conducting surveys, collecting and analyzing baseline data, and reporting.
-Experience in logical framework models and results based reporting is essential.
-Strong research experience with demonstrated ability in the use of quantitative and qualitative methods including survey techniques and questionnaire design.
-Advanced computer skills in spreadsheets, databases and graphics presentations, including knowledge of statistical packages such as SPSS and NVivo 9.
-Excellent oral and written communication skills – Ability to capacity build staff/partners in M & E.
-Experience of working in the southern Africa region and experience working on projects with multiple implementation partners is an advantage.

Interested applicants should send an application and CV, information on current salary, benefits and contact details of three referees to: The Head of HR, Policy and Administration, SAfAIDS, 479 Sappers Contour, Lynwood Pretoria 0081, South Africa, or e-mail to recruitments [at] safaids [dot] net

Please note that only short listed candidates will be contacted.

For more information, visit: www.safaids.net

Publicity Officer: Local NGO
Deadline:  1 March 2012

A performing arts venue is seeking an individual for the position of Publicity Officer to be based in Harare.

Basic Function of Position

To be responsible for and coordinate the following:
-Design and production of daily press and internet advertising
-Design and production of weekly print and email advertising
-Design and production of in-house posters and flyers
-Maintenance of mailing list and website

Requirements
-A high level of experience in computer graphic design/advertising
-Conversant with standard design software; CorelDraw, Photoshop etc
-Needs to be creative, fast, accurate, able to work under pressure and as a team, and proactive with attention to detail

To Apply
Interested applicants for this position should submit the following to: themanager.feb2012 [at] gmail [dot] com

-Letter of Application
-A current CV/resume, with contactable referees
-Portfolio/samples of design work

Remuneration: commensurate with skills and experience.

The organisation provides equal opportunity and fair and equitable treatment in employment to all people without regard to race, color, religion, sex, national origin, age, disability, political affiliation, marital status, or sexual orientation.

Capacity Building and Technical Advisor, NGOs and Humanitarian Reform Project, Phase II: ActionAid
Deadline: 2 March 2012 (1200 hours)

Location: Harare, Zimbabwe
To Start: 01 April 2012
Contract: Fixed-term contract ending 30 April 2013

ActionAid is an international anti-poverty agency working in over 40 countries, taking sides with poor people to end poverty and injustice together

Purpose of The Position
The Capacity Building and Technical Advisor would be responsible for the implementation of the NGOs and Humanitarian Reform Project, Phase II in Zimbabwe. The NGOs and Humanitarian Reform Project (NHRP2) is a 16 month project with 6 international NGOs in the global consortium. The Project seeks to enhance NGOs (national and international) representation, participation and leadership in humanitarian reform and other coordination forums for improved performance. It is managed by the International Coalition for Voluntary Agencies (ICVA) in Geneva, with the Danish Refugee Council (DRC) as the project contract holder.  Other consortium members are ActionAid International, Action Against Hunger (ACF) and ACTED. In Zimbabwe, ActionAid International Zimbabwe (AAI Zimbabwe) is the lead agency and is being supported by an In-Country Steering Committee composed of National and International NGOs. The Project period is 01/01/2012 to 30/04/2012. The project is funded by The European Commission- Humanitarian Aid and Civil Protection (ECHO).

Key Strategic Performance Areas
-Facilitate the strengthening of National and International NGOs participation and leadership in, and understanding of, humanitarian reform structures in Zimbabwe.
-Support NGO engagement in the on-going roll out of new recovery and transition architecture at the national, provincial and district levels.
-Coordination with the Project Internationally.
-Networking and Relationship building.
-Financial management and Activity reporting.

Minimum Requirements

Qualifications and Experience
-At least a Masters degree in either Disaster Management and Recovery or International relations or Development Studies or relevant Social Sciences.
-At least 4 years relevant practical experience in humanitarian reform and recovery processes and mechanisms and/or disaster preparedness and management and/or capacity building of international and national NGOs in humanitarian reform processes.
-Proven understanding and experience in facilitating advocacy and policy change work within complex humanitarian and/or fragile contexts and at national and regional/international levels.

Other Essential Requirements
-Proven skills in networking and relationship building at national and international levels.
-Strong analytical and information gathering skills.
-Excellent writing and facilitation skills.
-Strong communication and representational skills.
-Strong budget management skills.
-Ability to work alone and on one’s own initiative.
-Ability to work in multi-cultural settings.
-Understanding of and commitment to international humanitarian principles and action.
-Willingness to travel extensively in and outside Zimbabwe.
-A clean/ unendorsed Driver’s License.

A detailed Job Profile/Terms of Reference and information on Basic Salary and Benefits would be made available to short listed candidates

To apply submit your curriculum vitae with an application letter to Human Resources, ActionAid International, 16 York Avenue, Newlands, Harare or jobs.Zimbabwe [at] actionaid [dot] org

Note:
1.Preference would be given to persons eligible to work in Zimbabwe.
2.Whilst all applicants will be assessed strictly on their individual merits, qualified women are especially encouraged to apply.
3.Although we value all applications, we can only respond to short listed candidates.

Finance Officer: Harmonized Approach to Cash Transfers (HACT): UNICEF
Deadline: 4 March 2012

Vacancy Notice No.Zim/2012:04
NOB Level (Fixed Term Post)

This position provides high quality supports to Harare Office staff, regional, and headquarters levels, ensuring that effective and efficient solutions are provided to all incidents and queries regarding to HACT implementation. The successful candidate will be reporting to the Finance Manager, and will be providing support to the implementation of HACT within the national framework and report on progress with implementation of HACT including action plans on Assessment and Assurance activities.

Key result areas for this post include
-Maintain and disseminate to all agencies, a comprehensive and up-to-date database of implementing partners expected to receive more than designated amount during the year.
-Co-ordinate assurance and assessment activities to ensure compliance with HACT guidelines and the assurance activity plan – develop the annual assurance activity plan and monitor adherence to it. Co-ordinate assurance activities and micro assessments of partners with other UN agencies to maximise efficiency.
-Communicate findings to management and other UN agencies and make recommendations on resulting actions.
-Support staff and partners to ensure effective implementation of HACT systems and activities by facilitating appropriate and timely training. Monitor assurance activities and identify areas requiring capacity building in both partners and staff.
-Oversight of DCTs to ensure compliance with HACT guidelines and timely liquidations. Review liquidations in a timely and efficient manner and make recommendations to management to improve the process.
-Monitor liquidations and disbursements and make recommendations to strengthen partner capacity and develop a more efficient process.
-Responsible of the overall planning, building internal and external capacity and Quality Assurance of Programme Cooperation Agreement (PCA) budget compliance.
-Provide support to Programme Sections in reviewing and certifying budget submitted through PCA Peer Review Process and interact with Sections for finalization.
-Develop and monitor an annual HACT roll out plan including orientation and training of UN staff.

Qualifications and Competencies
-University degree in Finance or Business Administration, preferably an advanced relevant degree.
-3 years of professional work experience in the field of finance.
-Work experience in an international organization is desirable.

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 letter and curriculum vitae quoting vacancy notice number to the following address:

Human Resources Manager
(Vacancy Notice: Zim-2012:04)
UNICEF
6 Fairbridge Avenue
P O Box 1250
Belgravia
Harare

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

Only short listed candidates will be contacted.

Nutrition Officer (CMAM)
Deadline: 4 March 2012

Vacancy Notice No. Zim/2012:05
NOB Level (Fixed Term Post)

Purpose of the Job
The successful candidate will report to the Nutrition Manager and will be accountable for professional technical contribution to project design, planning, administration, monitoring and evaluation of CMAM programme.

Key result areas for this post include
1.Ensure availability of accurate, complete and up to date information required for effective nutrition CMAM programme and project design, nutrition Data of the country, addressing gender inequalities and determinants of gender equality where relevant in implementation, management, monitoring and evaluation.
2.Analyse collected data and information and prepare progress reports using agreed gender indicators where needed.
3.Ensure the appropriateness if financial, administrative and supply documentation, verify that nutrition project expenditures are within allotments and that data is consistent with the project information and database.
4.Compile nutrition CMAM project implementation training and orientation materials to promote knowledge sharing with donors and media.
5.Team with local government counterparts to exchange information on nutrition project implementation and status as well as movement and distribution of supplies.

Qualifications and Competencies
-University Degree in one of the disciplines relevant to the following areas: Public Health & Nutrition, Health Sciences, International Health & Nutrition, Public Health & Nutrition Policy and Management or other relevant disciplines, preferably advanced university degree.
-At least 2 years progressively relevant professional work experience.
-Ability to work in a multicultural environment.
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 letter and curriculum vitae quoting vacancy notice number to the following address:

Human Resources Manager
(Vacancy Notice No: 2012:05)
UNICEF
6 Fairbridge Avenue
P O Box 1250
Belgravia
Harare

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

Only short listed candidates will be contacted.

Bridal shower mythology

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Tuesday, February 21st, 2012 by Upenyu Makoni-Muchemwa

Growing up I used to visualise what I wanted my life to be when I finally reached adulthood. I was going to be a high-powered business woman/surgeon/philanthropist/mother in no particular order.  My thoughts were often pre-occupied with the difficulties of deciding on a speciality (cardio versus neuro); when I would find time to establish my media empire (after the last child entered nursery school), how many PAs and nannies I would need to help me manage my tiny universe (one of each); and how exactly I would give back to the world (a Doctors Without Borders deployment to a war zone seemed to fulfill my needs for charity, travel and work in high pressure, stressful situations). Even though I wanted to be a mother, I wasn’t certain about the marriage bit. Pop-psychology will have us believe that only girls with daddy issues would discard the notion of a permanent male figure in their lives and that of their children. It’s not always that simple. I think sometimes you can take a look around and find that the idea of the Zimbabwean husband as discussed by married women is incompatible with a woman pursuing an ambitious life.

At bridal showers well-meaning tetes and friends of the family tell brides-to-be that from the moment of marriage their lives must revolve around keeping their husband happy. There must always be a hot meal ready for him when he comes home from work. Should she work, she should never be too tired to come home and make one. Even if she has the convenience of domestic help, she should still come home and cook for her husband. There’s always a story about nhingi who would let the maid cook, and now her husband has taken the maid as a second wife. The future husband is always right in an argument, even when he is wrong, he is right. If he beats her it’s a sign of love. A woman must always be sexually available to her husband. There is no such thing as not being in the mood. Yes, she may not want him, but she risks losing him, and his money to a small house or sex workers and the beer-hall. At the core, what they really mean to say is that self-denial on the part of a woman is imperative for a marriage to be successful. The only happiness that counts is his.

Having attended several gatherings of women where the myth that men are spoilt, selfish, overgrown children is repeatedly peddled, it occurred to me that I couldn’t have the ‘everything’ that implied my own happiness if I was married. There was no room for happiness in a relationship already overcrowded with a large child cum dictator. Sure, courtship would be wonderful, but that was the advert. In a marriage, I couldn’t reasonably expect my future husband to be a kind, gentle, loving but manly sort of man. From these women, I learnt that it was ridiculous to expect my future husband to be supportive of my ambitions, and, really, I had no right to ask. At best he would allow me the luxury of boredom in not having to work. At worst he would be poor, and a pathological cheater incapable of discerning abuse from love.

Over time I’ve come to learn that the ‘good’ men I knew were not exceptional. Most men, even the traditional ones, were not the sex-crazed, narcissistic, malevolent tyrants of bridal shower or kitchen-tea myth. Most men are actually kind, gentle, loving but manly sort of men. They are flawed, but then, so am I. Being in a relationship with one such has also taught me that it’s not too much to ask to be supported in my ambitions. That support can be freely given, even without asking for it. I’ve also learnt that relationships are about compromise as well as sacrifice.

Libraries

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Tuesday, February 21st, 2012 by Michael Laban

I attended (as an observer since I am not a member) the Harare City Library AGM on Monday, 30 January 2012. Nice place, but in an interesting way, quite bizarre!

Founded in 1902 as the Queen Victoria Library, in 1982 it became the Harare City Library. Now in 2012, it has 3658 adult and 518 children members, about 25 000 books (I have under 4000) and it only runs because the Zimbabwe Open University rents rooms. ZOU provides about two thirds of it’s operating budget. Are there only 4000 people out of Harare’s one million who can read, or are they all, like me, in possession of sizeable personal libraries? Or do they simply not know the library exists?

It is owned by a trust. Two trustees are the Harare Mayor, and the Master of the High Court. It is run by a Management Committee. Six members are elected
(committee members, elected by the library members). Three Members are appointed by the Minister (Youth, Sport and Education). One by the City of Harare. Charles Nyatsuro – who was living and working as a gardener, and was the MDC Harare Central chairman, when I was elected to City Council. He is now elected from Ward 2, was appointed, but has never attended a Library meeting. And I know he can read because he borrowed, and never returned, several books of mine. About twenty five people came to the meeting. The outgoing chairman was Petina Gappah – the novelist.

When they took over, there was no outgoing committee. No accounts. Big debts. There had not been a grant from the City of Harare since 2006 (but plenty of bills). So they put together a strategic plan, and got accounts done (the Committee Treasurer was an accountant). Sixty nine percent of their revenue is from ZOU. Thirty one percent from membership fees. Of their bills, 81 percent went to salaries, and they actually have no librarian (as in qualified) on staff. The man in charge, ‘acting’ is not qualified! Of other bills, they owe $6000 in telephone bills, $13 000 to ZESA, and over $30 000 to the City. Annual income projected to be about $75 000 (of which about 80 percent will be staff running costs!)

They, traditionally run a lending library. To outlying suburb libraries, which are all owned by the City of Harare, not the trust that owns the Central Library. But some of them are shut, the rest are in trouble, and there is no facility (vehicle, fuel, qualifications.) to run the lending side anymore. The Hatfield Library is a building. And the Junior Chamber International (JCI) is attempting to get it up and running again (once they get the City to plough through the bureaucracy).

But it all begs the questions – Why do people read? Why do people join the library? Why do people use the library? What kind of people use the library, and for what?

On the other hand, do people no longer read? And I KNOW that is not true. Is everything we do now on computer? Through the internet? Again, I KNOW that is not true. Almost no Zimbabweans (relatively speaking) have access to computers or the internet. What are the figures, if you have those you are in the top one percent of the world’s population, a very small elite.

And who are these people that keep this very valuable resource on it’s feet. After being run down and neglected by previous regimes (no accounts, no librarian!) they have, at the very least, put it on it’s feet. While it cannot function in many ways, at the very least we (they!) now know what is wrong and can plan what to do.

These questions need to be answered. Until we know the answers to these questions, it is difficult to rehabilitate the place. Rehabilitate it for what? To what? A bit like the pool (MacDonald Park, see a previous blog). What am I doing this for? Now that I have done it (or been involved in the doing of it), I am very pleased it has happened. The people use it. Want it. But there was every danger that I was working towards nothing.

Similar thoughts with the library (although I am not involved). What are they doing it for? Are books a thing of the past? Do people just want internet access, and can it provide as much, the same, as easy, as good. information, learning, education, advancement as books can? Do they need to provide both?

The big question – what do Zimbabwean’s want? And how do we make them stand up and tell us what they want? Come on Zimbabwe. Find your voice. Not as individuals (even if that is the start point) but as a nation. Tell us how to get ahead. Tell us how to plan. Tell us what to plan for.

Optimism

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Tuesday, February 21st, 2012 by Amanda Atwood

Zimbabweans hate the rain

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Monday, February 20th, 2012 by Amanda Atwood

At 4pm I got this SMS from a co-worker. How could I refuse?

Combi from belvedere delayd by police n its drizzling in town. May I report back t work tmoro.