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Zimbabwe opposition wants political inmates freed


http://www.google.com/hostednews/ap/article/ALeqM5jd_JZmhdw6XWClfpenWt9g-dqNNAD968MBRO0
2009 02 10
HARARE, Zimbabwe (AP)
Zimbabwe's opposition leader says political detainees should be released before he is sworn in as prime minister of a unity government.
Morgan Tsvangirai made the call at a news conference Tuesday.
He did not say what he would do if the detainees were not released.
Tsvangirai is due to be sworn in Wednesday as prime minister in power-sharing government with President Robert Mugabe.
However scores of opposition members and human rights activists remain jailed in what observers say was a crackdown on Zimbabwe's dissidents even as power-sharing was being finalized.
 
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Biti appointed Finance Minister as Tsvangirai names MDC team

    
http://www.zimonline.co.za/Article.aspx?ArticleId=4228
by Patricia Mpofu Tuesday 10 February 2009
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TENDAI BITI . . . to head the finance ministry in a unity government
Harare
Zimbabwe's main opposition leader Morgan Tsvangirai named respected lawyer Tendai Biti to head the finance ministry in a unity government with President Robert Mugabe’s ZANU PF party.
Tsvangirai, who named 14 ministers although under the power-sharing agreement his MDC party was allocated 13 Cabinet posts, also named prominent white farmer Roy Bennett as deputy minister of agriculture.
The MDC leader - who will be sworn in as Prime Minister tomorrow - told a press briefing in Harare this afternoon that the people he nominated to serve in the new government would be in charge of rejuvenating the political and economic fortunes of Zimbabwe.
“The road ahead is long but we believe we can succeed,” said Tsvangirai before unveiling his team. “Success will need Zimbabweans from across the party lines.”
Under the political agreement signed by Tsvangirai, Mugabe and Arthur Mutambara, who heads the smaller formation of the MDC, ZANU PF is allocated 15 posts with Mutambara’s group allocated three in a 31-member Cabinet
It was not immediately clear whether the allocations had been increased after Tsvangirai named one more minister than the 13 allocated his party under the September power-sharing deal.
Also interestingly, Tsvangirai named Abedinico Bhebhe from the rival Mutambara faction as minister of water resources.
Other appointments were Giles Mutsekwa to the Ministry of Home Affairs, Eric Matinenga, Constitutional and Parliamentary Affairs; Pauline Mpariwa, Labour and Social Welfare; Professor Elphas Mukonoweshuro, Public Service; Professor Heneri Dzinotyiwei, Science, Technology and Development.
Former Harare mayor, Engineer Elias Mudzuri was appointed Minister of Energy and Power Development with Eddie Cross appointed Minister of State Enterprises; Dr Henry Madzorera, Health and Child Welfare; Theresa Makone, Public Works; Nelson Chamisa, Information and Technology; and Elton Mangoma, Economic Planning and Investment Promotion.
Tsvangirai also proceeded to appoint Dr Tichaona Mudzingwa for the post of Deputy Minister of Defence; Jessie Majome, Deputy Minister of Justice and Cecil Zvidzai, Deputy Minister of Local Government.
The Prime Minister-designate said he would appoint the deputy ministers’ of foreign affairs, and women and economic empowerment after further consultations.
The formation of unity government that will be completed with the swearing in of ministers on Friday has raised hopes that the political situation could be eased and the country can focus on halting the slide into total meltdown.
Once a model African economy Zimbabwe is in the grip of an unprecedented economic and humanitarian crisis marked by the world’s highest inflation of 231 million percent as of last July, acute shortages of food and deepening poverty amid a cholera epidemic that has infected more than 69 000 people and killed more than 3 000 others.
However many people remain immensely sceptical that the unity government - in which Mutambara will also serve as a deputy prime minister - can stand the strain given deep-seated mistrust between Mugabe and Tsvangirai.
In addition, Western countries - whose financial support is vital to any programme to resuscitate Zimbabwe’s collapsed economy - remain unconvinced that a unity government led by Mugabe will implement wide ranging economic and political reforms required to revive the southern African country.
“If Zimbabwe is going to attract that support, it requires a durable government that reflects the will of the people and is capable of delivering genuine reform,” Britain’s embassy in Harare said at the weekend.
Britain is Zimbabwe’s former colonial power and wields immense influence on European Union policy on Harare.
“Given Mugabe’s resistance to change to date, his failed economic policies and his propensity to rail against the outside world, it is unlikely that any government involving Mugabe will inspire donor confidence and attract the support it so badly needs,” the embassy said, increasing fears there will not be immediate inflows of aid to Zimbabwe.
Without substantial international support, there are only slim changes Zimbabwe’s unity government could be able to turn around the fortunes of the country.
ZimOnline
 
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Engineer Elias Mudzuri is speculated to be the new Minister of National Housing and Social Amenities

      
http://www.zimdiaspora.com/index.php?option=com_content&view=article&id=685:engineer-elias-mudzuri-is-speculated-to-be-the-new-minister-national-housing-and-social-amenities&catid=38:travel-tips&Itemid=274
Tuesday, 10 February 2009 09:37
Administrator News
Former Harare Mayor Elias Mudzuri, removed from office in 2004 by the ZANU-PF government of President Robert Mugabe along with the rest of the opposition controlled city council, now member of parliament for Warren Park, Harare, is expected to be apponted National Housing and Social Amenities Zimdiaspora can reveal.
Mudzuri A graduate of Harvard University’s John F Kennedy School of Government, Mudzuri attained a Masters degree in Public Administration. Also trained in Sierre Leone as a civil engineer. He is a 2006 Mason Fellow in Public Policy and Management was elected in March 2002 on an MDC ticket by an overwhelming majority of Harare’s residents and became the city’s first civic leader from the opposition.
The Mudzuri-led democratically elected council immediately put into motion a people driven set of transparent development programmes to remedy 22 years of Zanu PF induced misadministration, corruption and vice.
In the short period he led Harare, Mudzuri formulated and managed a capital revenue budget of over US $ 400 million, covering administration, revenue collection, roads, water and waste water, garbage collection and disposal, education and social amenities.
However, almost immediately after that election, a power struggle between Minister of Local Government Ignatius Chombo and Mudzuri ensued. Chombo blocked badly needed funds for local improvements and development.
In March 2003, young Zanu-PF supporters toyi-toyi'd around Town House - Harare's city hall - chanting: "Mudzuri should be beaten up, he must be killed and he must be removed."On January 11, 2003 the national police assaulted and arrested Mudzuri while he met with Harare residents. More than 20 city officials and residents were held at that time.At the end of April 2003 the national government suspended Mudzuri from his position as Executive Mayor without pay, and locked him out of his office.Mudzuri has worked in business advocacy, public life and public administration for the past 20 years.
Reliable sources revealed that Pouline Gwanyanya and Maimativenga are likely appointees for Labour and Social Welfare ministry, while Evelyn Masaiti Matongo, the former wife of the Late MDC national Chairman, Isaac Matongo is expected to feature as deputy minister.
It is still not clear if the young vibrant out spoken, MDC spokes person Nelson Chamisa will be awarded the Ministry of Information Communication Technology which he rightly deserve.
The Constitutional and Parliamentary Affairs ministry is a toss-up between Nyanga MP and law lecturer, Douglas Mwonzora, and Advocate Eric Matinenga, a prominent Harare lawyer.
Tsvangirai’s pick for the ministry will play a pivotal in the coming months as Zimbabwe begins a process of drawing up a new constitution which according to the power sharing agreement must be in place by 2011.
Tapiwa Mashakada, the 41-year-old MDC-T’s deputy secretary general is likely to be favoured for the Economic Planning and Investment Promotion portfolio, our sources say. There may yet be a major role for MDC-T's secretary general Tendai Biti, despite reports saying he has declined an appointment. MDC officials say Biti is keen on the Home Affairs portfolio, which is to be shared with a Zanu PF-appointed minister.
However, Tsvangirai is said to want Biti to take charge of Finance, which, if rejected, could eventually be passed on to Elton Mangoma, who was involved in negotiations for the unity government.
Tsvangirai will make other critical appointments to ministries such as Energy, Public Works; land the Water Resources Development and Management, State Enterprises and Parastatals, and Information and Communications Technology. He will be under considerable pressure to appoint some MPs from the Matabeleland region to the Cabinet following his party’s strong showing in parliamentary elections last March.
The MDC leader has recently shuffled his backroom staff, removing George Sibotshiwe as his spokesman and replacing him with Joseph Mungwari. Officials insist Sibotshiwe was “promoted”. They add that a further reshuffle is likely, and former DJ and current ZESA spokesman James Maridadi could be handed some role in the Prime Minister's Office.
Tsvangirai will be sworn-in on Wednesday alongside his deputies Mutambara and Thokozani Khupe. He is expected to use his inauguration to appeal to the West to fund the rebuilding of his shattered country even though Mugabe remains President.
Tsvangirai will address tens of thousands of Zimbabweans at the Glamis Stadium in Harare after the private swearing-in ceremony. He will outline an ambitious 100-day programme of reconstruction and democratisation and urge the West to back it with desperately needed finance.
A statement from the MDC said “no party regalia will be entertained at the event as this is not a party occasion but a major national event.” The statement added: “This will be a historic occasion for the country. It marks the beginning of a new era; the final miles of a journey to a new Zimbabwe.” Zimdiaspora/NZ
MINISTRY ALLOCATION ACCORDING TO GOVERNMENT GAZETTE 2008
MDC
1 Constitutional and Parliamentary Affairs
2 Economic Planning and Investment Promotion
3 Energy and Power Development
4 Health and Child Welfare
5 Labour and Social Welfare
6 Water Resources Development and Management
7 Public Service
8 Sport, Arts and Culture
9 State Enterprise and Parastatals
10 Science and Technology Development
11 Information Communication Technology
12 Public Works
MUTAMBARA
1 Regional Integration and International Cooperation
2 Education
3 Industry and Commerce
ZANU-PF
1 Defence
2 Home Affairs*
3 Foreign Affairs
4 Transport
5 Local Government and Urban Development
6 Mines and Mining Development
7 Lands, Agriculture and Resettlement
8 Environment, Natural Resources and Tourism
9 Higher and Tertiary Education
10 Small and Medium Enterprises and Cooperative Development
11 Justice and Legal Affairs13 Media, Information and Publicity
12 Finance
13 National Housing and Social Amenities
14 Women’s Affairs, Gender and Community Development
15 Youth Development, Indigenisation and Empowerment
* To be shared
 
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World War III - Biti vs. Gono for Zimbabwe's finances

    
http://www.thezimbabwemail.com/zimbabwe/1520.html
10 February, 2009 10:57:00
By MacDonald Dzirutwe
HARARE
Zimbabwe's opposition leader Morgan Tsvangirai is expected on Tuesday to name his cabinet team to serve in a unity government with President Robert Mugabe, officials of Tsvangirai's party said amid reports that Tendai Biti is set to take on Gideon Gono in the Ministry of Finance as first reported by The Zimbabwe Mail.
Gono is Robert Mugabe's rogue Central Bank Governor.
Tsvangirai, who agreed to form a coalition with Mugabe last week, will be sworn in as prime minister on Wednesday under a power-sharing deal designed to end Zimbabwe's political crisis and revive an economy in a state of collapse.
Senior Movement for Democratic Change (MDC) officials said party Secretary General Tendai Biti was frontrunner to be finance minister, who will need the confidence of foreign donors and investors. The joint cabinet will be sworn in on Friday.
"Barring any last minute changes I can say Biti will certainly be the man at finance," an MDC official told Reuters.
A party spokesman said an announcement was due at 1000 GMT.
Analysts believe Mugabe and Tsvangirai, two old foes faced with the prospect of working together, will appoint political allies rather than technocrats and economists who might have better qualifications for rebuilding the ruined country.
Appointing Biti, a lawyer and founding MDC member who fiercely opposed compromise with Mugabe, to the finance ministry could reinforce that view.
It also raises the risks of confrontation between him and Central Bank Governor Gideon Gono, a Mugabe ally.
Zimbabwe was once the breadbasket of southern Africa and one of the continent's most promising economies but hyperinflation means prices now double every day, unemployment is over 90 percent and the currency is almost worthless.
ASSURANCES SOUGHT
Western donors want assurances that the new government will be a democratic one prepared to make bold economic reforms, such as reversing laws that aimed to nationalise mines and banks.
Tsvangirai's party will largely be in charge of economic and social ministries such as health and education, water, energy and power development - all sectors which have been devastated by Zimbabwe's 10-year economic crisis.
Critics say Mugabe has brought Zimbabwe's economy to its knees with reckless policies while the veteran leader blames Western sanctions. But Tsvangirai has not spelled out how he would bring financial stability.
Central bank governor Gono has in the past dismissed an idea floated by South African President Kgalema Motlanthe that Zimbabwe's dollar be linked to the rand.
Namibia, Swaziland and Lesotho all use the rand alongside their own currencies but South Africa's Reserve Bank Governor Tito Mboweni has in the past ruled out a formal arrangement with Zimbabwe.
Tsvangirai is also expected to include MDC spokesman Nelson Chamisa in the cabinet, as well as Eric Matinenga, a prominent lawyer who has defended Tsvangirai in the past and Elias Mudzuri, a former mayor for Harare, the officials said.
Biti, 42, is a senior partner at a Harare law firm which focuses on human rights, labour and constitutional law. A magistrate court last week dropped a treason charge against Biti. He denied the charge.
 
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Zim gets US$ 11m humanitarian aid (Herald)

     
The Herald
2009 02 10
Herald Reporter
The United Nations Central Emergency Response Fund has allocated Zimbabwe US$ 11 million in humanitarian aid.
The UN Emergency Relief Coordinator, Mr John Holmes, announced the aid package last week in which 14 countries, including Zimbabwe, were allocated a total of US$ 75 million to boost humanitarian response.
The 14 countries are faced with food shortages, diseases and conflict.
The funds will be granted to UN humanitarian agencies and the International Organisation for Migration, and through them to partner organisations, including non-governmental organisations, to support humanitarian projects in the affected countries.
Countries were selected to receive grants based on an analysis of the funding levels of their aid programmes, the severity of the humanitarian needs, security and other constraints on aid delivery.
Humanitarian actors in Zimbabwe received the largest single allocation of US$ 11 million.
Agencies working in Democratic People’s Republic of Korea, Ethiopia and Somalia will receive allocations of US$ 10 million per country. Humanitarian agencies in Yemen will receive US$ 5 million, as will humanitarian partners in Colombia and Haiti.
Meanwhile, programmes in Burundi and Niger will receive US$ 4 million, and Myanmar US$ 3 million. Humanitarian actors in Burkina Faso, Cote d’Ivoire, Djibouti, and Eritrea will each receive US$ 2 million.
This is the first round of allocations from the Central Emergency Response Fund’s window for under-funded emergencies in 2009.
The second round will be in July. In 2008, a total of US$ 128 million was allocated to under-funded emergencies.
The Central Emergency Response Fund is bankrolled by voluntary contributions from member states, non-governmental organisations, local governments, the private sector and individual donors.
The fund was established in 2006 to help agencies respond rapidly to new or deteriorating humanitarian situations. It is administered by the United Nations Office for the Co-ordination of Humanitarian Affairs.
 
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Zimdollar remains legal tender (Herald)

   
The Herald
2009 02 10
OPINION
REPORTS that several businesses and service providers are refusing to accept the Zimbabwe dollar as legal tender make disturbing reading given that the central bank and the Government have not revoked the local unit.
If anything, the recent introduction of a new family of banknotes testifies to Government and the monetary authorities faith in the local unit. The onus is on us all to support our currency.
In their National Budget and Monetary Policy Statements recently, the Government and the central bank emphasised that the Zimdollar remains the prime mode of transactions complemented by the US dollar, the South African rand and the Botswana pula.
As such, the Zimdollar remains legal tender, business people must accept it, particularly as the majority of people earn wages and salaries in local currency.
It is, therefore, vital that service providers understand that the fact that they were granted permission to use any of the world’s currencies does not make the Zimdollar redundant. These foreign units are supposed to complement, not replace the Zimdollar.
The monetary authorities clearly stated that the inter-bank rate of exchange for the Zimbabwe dollar against all major currencies was free from their interference, therefore making this a function of free economic forces.
With this in mind, it would be expected that whatever market forces are at play, these would freely determine the amount of Zimbabwe dollars equivalent to any of the major currencies.
The liberalisation should allow for free and easy conversion of any currency to another and this should include the Zimbabwe dollar.
The authorities, therefore, need to enforce the acceptance of our currency for bill settlements.
The stability of our currency, however, relies totally on the productivity of all sectors of the economy, especially the export sector, and here the businesses that are shunning the local unit should play a part.
It is basic economics that the strength of the Zimdollar rests on increased productivity, the more production we have in the industries and on the farms, the stronger our currency will become.
To this end, the planned setting-up of the Export Bank should be vigorously pursued so as to provide loan financing to the export sector, to stimulate export growth.
 
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Public Event - Zimbabwe Poets for Human Rights

     News from Kubatana
10 February, 2009
 www.kubatana.net [Kubatana.net]
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Date: Friday 13 February 2009
Time: 5:30pm - 8pm
Where: New Ambassador Hotel, Harare
Join us for an exciting Poetry Recital and Discussion Forum dubbed the "Black Poetry in Motion Night" in commemoration of Black History Month. There shall be inspiring recitals of Afro-American poems and others by Zimbabwe Poets for Human Rights dedicated and focusing on the Black Man's Achievements the world over.
Rhymes for Rights
The NewInternationalist Publications Team is busy compiling a human rights based poetry anthology with poets from around the world. The aim is to have a hundred poems from a hundred different poets. And we need your help! If you have a favourite poet or poem that you think might fit the bill, please email us your suggestions. Interpret human rights in the broadest possible sense; we're not just after poetry of protest; affirmations are as valuable (and much harder to find) as complaints; translations are fine; poets should be fairly contemporary (ie 20th century to ones still alive); established names and unknowns equally welcome. Please email your suggestions to: rightspoetry@newint.org
Long Time Coming: Short Writings from Zimbabwe
A man tries to find Z$ 5,000 for his bus ride home. A woman about to get married waits with her fiancé for the results of an HIV test. A defeated president gets ready to vacate his palace, but his wife refuses to leave until she has found her favourite pair of yellow shoes. In a powerful and timely collection of short stories and poems about Zimbabwe by 33 writers, Long Time Coming offers snapshots of life in a collapsed country. It is a collection straining with suspended hope; change has taken too long to arrive. “My country is like/ an empty but attractive/ plastic packet,” writes poet Julius Chingono, “being blown by the wind/ along the road that leads to a rubbish dump/ by the cemetery.” Zimbabwe’s plight is perfectly suited to the short story and offerings come from both celebrated writers like Petina Gappah, Christopher Mlalazi and John Eppel, and a clutch of emerging talents from Zimbabwe and the diaspora. Political frustration, brutal violence and painful loss is met with practical resignation and grim humour. Despite the patient optimism in the book’s title, little of this makes its way into the stories. Unpicking the loneliness she has noticed in everyone lately, in ‘Arrested Development’ Sandisile Tshuma calls it a “pervasive and virus-like affliction” borne on glimpses of a life and future we can feel “slipping through our fingers”. In a country, where Raisedon Baya writes in ‘Echoes of Silence’, “silence became a way of life”, Zimbabwe’s writers are trying to incite its people against it. - Gemma Ware, The Africa Report
For more information and to purchase copies please email ‘amaBooks amabooks@gator.co.zw
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Inclusive government - we all have a role to play

www.kubatana.net
“The unity agreement is merely an act of consolidation of power taking us back to the era of the one party state.”
~ Lovemore Matombo, President of the Zimbabwe Congress of Trade Unions. Read more
Morgan Tsvangirai will be sworn in as Prime Minister on Wednesday 11 February. This follows the passage of Constitutional Amendment Number 19 by the House of Assembly and the Senate last week, and paves the way for the "inclusive government" agreed to last month. There are a lot of good things about this agreement to look forward to. The September Global Political Agreement provides for an All Stakeholders Conference for a new Constitution by July 2009; a draft Constitution to be ready by this time next year; and a referendum on this new constitution by July 2010. If this new Constitution is approved, it should be in place by September next year.
Meanwhile, the Global Political Agreement provides for free political activity, freedom of movement and assembly, freedom of expression and communication, and respect for the rule of law. Also, one of the issues on many people’s minds is that the first priority for the inclusive government must be economic recovery. The Zimbabwe Congress of Trade Unions has issued this important critique of the 2009 National Budget. Read more
But according to the Research and Advocacy Unit, there are some important changes which should have been made to this amendment, to make it a better law. Moreover, some Zimbabweans are asking - how can we trust this inclusive government, when MDC activists and civil society leaders like Jestina Mukoko are still in prison?
Take action! The best we can do to ensure that this unity government makes Zimbabwe a better place is to hold it to account. This will not always be easy, and the leaders of this new government may not always want to listen to us. But within the Global Political Agreement, there is a mechanism in place to do this.
The Joint Monitoring and Implementation Committee ("JOMIC") is to “ensure full and proper implementation of the letter and spirit of“ the Global Political Agreement. JOMIC has 12 members - with the MDC-T, MDC-M and Zanu PF each having 4 representatives on the Committee. Responsibility for chairing JOMIC will rotate each month. The first chairperson is Welshman Ncube, of MDC-M.
If you have any concerns about the implementation of the agreement, or believe that the spirit or letter of the agreement is being violated in anyway, report your concerns to JOMIC. You can reach Chairperson Ncube on Tel +263 4 252782-3/94-5/846, Fax +263 4 736300 email: wncube@africaonline.co.zw and cc to funsthole@yahoo.com
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Put human rights at the top of the political agenda - A five point human rights agenda for the inclusive government

www.kubatana.net

As the Zimbabwean political parties finalise the process of setting up a new government, Amnesty International challenges the new regime to demonstrate a commitment to human rights in its first 100 days in power. Amnesty International has issued a five point human rights agenda for the new government to implement as its first steps to address Zimbabwe’s legacy of impunity for human rights violations. “For nearly a decade the people of Zimbabwe have endured immense suffering as a result of the government’s policies against perceived opponents. It is against this background that we are calling on President Robert Mugabe and Prime Minister-designate Morgan Tsvangirai to take concrete steps to demonstrate their government’s commitment to internationally recognized human rights,” said Simeon Mawanza Amnesty International’s Zimbabwe expert. “The deteriorating economic and social conditions must also be a priority for this government. The people of Zimbabwe urgently need food, housing, essential health care, safe drinking water, sanitation and education,” said Simeon Mawanza. “If the government is unable to deliver these basic necessities, it will have to seek international cooperation and assistance and remove unnecessary restrictions.” Amnesty International also called for the immediate and unconditional release of Prisoners of Conscience, Jestina Mukoko, Broderick Takawira and Pascal Gonzo. These three human rights workers have been in custody since early December when they were abducted by state security agents. The organization also expressed concern over the continued ill-treatment of political detainees, like Fidelis Chiramba of the MDC, who is reported to be in urgent need of hospitalisation. Read more from Amnesty International
Wednesday is a political watershed
My greatest fear is that the presence of the MDC in this government, in which Zanu-PF is clearly dictating both the terms and the direction, resuscitates Mugabe and strengthens his brutal regime. The MDC’s presence in this government legitimizes Mugabe in the eyes of the world and the last thing we want to see now is Mugabe replenishing his strength.I pray that this unity is temporary. I wish it could have been slated to last only a few hours because I feel terribly uneasy with an angel (figurative) who keeps following and asking the devil’s help to cross a river. Can the angel do so without compromising himself?
Zimbabweans had voted for a clean break with Mugabe and the opening of a new chapter. We got neither. Read more from Tanonoka Whande
National healing process urged
According to prime minister-designate Tsvangirai, senior members of ZANU-PF should face trial for political violence, though he does not believe Mugabe himself should be tried. ZANU-PF, however, and Mutambara’s faction of the MDC believe that any action taken should be aimed at "achieving national healing rather than punishment and retribution". Chiroto, one of 45 MDC councillors in Harare, is unequivocal on the issue - for him punishment of those who murdered his wife is the only acceptable option. "I have problems forgetting and forgiving the people who killed my wife," he said. "Justice must one day be meted out to whoever organised the killing. What do I tell my son when he grows up?" Read more
Rights groups slam politicians over jailed activists
Rights groups on Saturday criticised Zimbabwean political leaders for beating their chests about progress towards formation of a unity government while forgetting detained Movement for Democratic Change (MDC) activists. About 30 opposition MDC activists, including 72-year-old Fidelis Chiramba and Ghandi Mudzingwa - a former personal assistant of MDC leader Morgan Tsvangirai, are languishing in jail for more than three months after they were abducted from their homes or work places on terrorism-related charges. "He (Chiramba) is the most extreme case amongst all political prisoners who remain incarcerated whilst politicians congratulate themselves about progress made in moving towards the establishment of an inclusive government," director of Zimbabwe Lawyers for Human Rights Irene Petras told reporters. Read more
The bittersweet Zimbabwean deal
In spite of the apparent improvements to the deal, opponents argue that it provides Mugabe with a political lifeline and could potentially sink Tsvangirai and the opposition into political oblivion. Here, history is not on Mugabe’s side. For example, following catastrophic political disturbances in 1987, Mugabe’s party, ZANU, signed a Unity Accord with the then opposition leader Joshua Nkomo’s party, ZAPU. Although this accord led to the end of political violence, many perpetrators went largely unpunished while Nkomo and his party took largely ceremonial roles in the new government setup. For these reasons, the opposition to the current deal is concerned Tsvangirai may have been suckered into a deal with Mugabe not really intending to give him real power. If this were the case, how then would Tsvangirai back away and still remain credible?
There are legitimate concerns that perhaps it would have been more advantageous for Tsvangirai to continue insisting on the parity that this agreement does not achieve. Read more from Brighton Mudzingwa
Zimbabwe and the weapons of 'mass distraction'
Hope is too complicated to comprehend, especially when threats to our basic existence are clear and present. As we celebrate the power-sharing agreement and the formation of the inclusive Government (and the accompanying efforts at tackling the economic challenges), we should not forget the social tragedy confronting us - the broken down families and communities, heightening crime rate, the political and social polarization and the widening gap between the rich and the poor. Reading the political and social commentaries coming out of Zimbabwe, and Zimbabweans, the widespread disillusion with politics in general and our leaders should find a remedy for this and re-engage citizens to take part in civic activity, without which development remains a mirage. This is possible only insofar as it is possible to restore a sense of community to the nation. That, in turn, requires a belief in the common good. In the face of grotesque inequality, governmental and corporate sleaze, and generalized anomie, we need, as Barack Obama once remarked, "to affirm our bonds with one another". Read more from Tendai Mauchaza
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KFM Financial Questions and Answers

www.kubatana.net
Question: What impact is the dollarisation of the economy expected to have on NGO financial management?
Answer: Instead of just dollarisation the economy has become a multiple currency one and we see the fate of the GNU as having a big impact on how the economy reacts to this policy. That said we expect the following:
The use of hard currency will make the entries in the books of accounts a lot easier. However the use of multiple currencies will mean that there might be a need for numerous conversions to one currency that will be used for reporting purposes. If the South African government accepts the official use of the rand then this might become the currency NGOs mostly work with.
The government expects this policy to see more inflows into government coffers and if this happens then there is some chance that NGO funds held with the reserve bank might finally be released.
Use of the Zimbabwe dollar is expected is be limited until there is confidence in the local currency. There is thus a need for organisations to ensure that they understand the true value of goods and services in dollar to avoid over expenditure.
Foreign currency inflation will continue to be a problem and organisations will have to monitor their budget more prudently.
The use of foreign currency in tax tables will see NGO staff members pay more taxes than they did previously. Penalties will also have a significant impact on budgets and thus need to be avoided.
Import duties being paid in the currency that the goods were purchased in will mean that imported goods will become more expensive.
There will be a larger pool of suppliers to choose from as organisations will not be limited to a few registered operators.
The banking sector will become more competitive and NGOs should be able to negotiate more favourable conditions with their banks.
KFM Consultants is involved in building the financial management capacity of NGOs and if you have comments or specific questions you would like answered you can contact us on information@kfm.co.zw < BR>--------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Space to let
A development training centre 20 kms from Harare city centre and close to Tafara high density suburb has space available for renting.
The area available is three large rooms, each equivalent to the average size classroom and four offices.
Ablution facilities are available. Apply to the Registrar at admin@silveira.co.zw or 011443295
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Courses . . .
Women Leadership and Governance Programme - Training Course
Deadline: 20 February 2009
Where: Harare
When: 6 - 18 April, 2009
The course is designed for women in management positions from all sectors. It seeks to develop their capacity in applying gender responsiveness and approaches to matters of leadership, management and governance. To take you through new exciting viewpoints in feminist theories, transformative leadership, gender issues in management and gender main-streaming are resource persons, speakers and panellists drawn from a resource base of experts from all over Africa and beyond.
At the end of this two weeks training we hope to have provided women leaders and decision-makers with tools to manage gender-based diversity and apply gender responsive approaches and practices in leadership and governance functions.
Who should apply?
English speaking women
In middle to senior management
Within the age group of 25-40 years old
Should be coming from a SADC country or Central Africa and
Must be a feminist
For more information email fiona@wlgi.org.zw
Awards and Competitions . . .
Women's Learning Partnership for Rights, Development, and Peace YouTube Competition
Deadline: 28 February 2009
What Does Human Rights Mean to You?
An initiative of the Young Women's Learning Partnership (yWLP). In commemoration of the 60th anniversary of the Universal Declaration of Human Rights (UDHR) and to open a dialogue with youth on human rights, Young Women's Learning Partnership (yWLP) announced a YouTube contest seeking videos on "What Does Human Rights Mean to You?" Find out more
Susie Smith Memorial Prize 2009
Deadline: 31 March 2009
Oxfam Great Britain established the Susie Smith Memorial Prize in 2008 to honour the life and work of Susie Smith who died in June 2006. Susie touched the lives of many people around the world in her 30-year career with Oxfam. In her later years with the organisation, she championed the cause of HIV and AIDS and pioneered new approaches to tackling the pandemic. With this prize, Oxfam wants to acknowledge and build on Susie's deep sense of justice and commitment to sub-Saharan African and her incredible talent and determination to challenge traditional thinking - especially about HIV and AIDS - wherever she found it. The prize of £3,000 will be awarded to a single piece of published writing on HIV and AIDS from sub-Saharan Africa. Any type of writing (for example poetry, fiction, a play, an article or a chapter of a book) of up to 10,000 words, in English, and published since January 2006, will be eligible. The judges will focus on two key elements: the quality of the piece itself (writing, analysis, insights) and evidence of impact of the writing in the media and/or with people, governments or other institutions. For more information visit http://www.oxfam.org.uk/susiesmith or email susiesmithmemorialprize@oxfam.org.uk
Elizabeth Neuffer Fellowship Promoting Human Rights Journalism
Deadline: 15 April 2009
The International Women’s Media Foundation is now accepting applications for the 2009-10 Elizabeth Neuffer Fellowship, named for the 1998 IWMF Courage in Journalism Award winner and Boston Globe correspondent who was killed in Iraq in May 2003. This program, created with Neuffer’s family and friends, aims to perpetuate her memory and advance her life mission of promoting international understanding of human rights and social justice while creating an opportunity for women journalists to build their skills. One woman journalist will be selected to spend an academic year in a tailored program with access to Boston-area universities as well as the Boston Globe and New York Times. The flexible structure of the program will provide the fellow with opportunities to pursue academic research and hone her reporting skills covering topics related to human rights. The fellow may also participate in the Elizabeth Neuffer Forum on Human Rights and Journalism. The Elizabeth Neuffer Fellowship is open to women journalists whose focus is human rights and social justice. A successful applicant will be dedicated to a career in journalism in print, broadcast or online media and will show a strong commitment to sharing knowledge and skills with colleagues upon the completion of the fellowship. Excellent written and spoken English skills are required. A stipend will be provided, and expenses, including airfare and housing, will be covered. The fellowship will run from September 2009 - May 2010. Find out more
Fellowships . . .
Visiting Fellowship for Distinguished Developing Country Candidates
Deadline: 28 February 2009
The Center for Global Development (CGD), an independent Washington-based think tank, invites applications from leading scholars in developing countries for a visiting fellows program sponsored by Canada’s International Development Research Centre (IDRC). The program offers one-year sabbatical support for a senior researcher from a developing country on leave from his or her host institution. The ideal candidate will be engaged in policy research in at least one of the areas of CGD focus: aid effectiveness, trade, private sector development, financial markets, global health, or migration. S/he will be expected to participate in all facets of CGD’s activities.
The successful candidate will possess the following qualifications:
Doctoral degree or equivalent in economics, political science or another relevant social science
Proven track record of applying quantitative research to practical, real-world policy problems
A distinguished record of publications
Excellent oral and written communication skills
Current employment at a university or research institution based in a developing country
Candidates will be judged on the substance of their proposed research project and the likelihood of completing a major project during the one-year period of support. The Visiting Scholar will be offered: a competitive salary; full benefits package; a part-time research assistant; travel budget, including round-trip airfare for travel to/from home country, and assistance with visa procurement. Applicants should send a short cover letter, CV, and a brief statement about proposed research (maximum: two pages), with information organized under the following headings: Research Question; Research Approach; Anticipated Outputs; Potential Policy Impact. Please send application materials to Ellen Mackenzie at hrjobs@cgdev.org and indicate whether they are applying for the 2009/10 or 2010/11 academic year. CGD is committed to attracting and maintaining a diverse and dedicated workforce. Please use the title “IDRC Visiting Fellow” in all e-mail correspondence. No phone calls please. For more information about the Center for Global Development, see http://www.cgdev.org.
Call for papers . . .
Call for papers - ABORNE Conference on ‘How is Africa Transforming Border Studies?’
Deadline: 30 April 2009
Hosted by the School of Social Sciences, University of the Witwatersrand, Johannesburg, South Africa, 10-14 September 2009. The African Borderlands Research Network - ABORNE - is an interdisciplinary network of over 70 academic researchers and institutions in Europe, Africa and North America. Its members are from all disciplines of the social sciences, with an emphasis on anthropology and history. They share a long-term interest in all aspects of international borders and trans-boundary phenomena in Africa. The emphasis is largely on borderlands as physical spaces and social spheres, but the network is also concerned with regional flows of people and goods as well as economic processes that may be located at some distance from the geographical border. ABORNE will hold it’s third annual meeting at the University of the Witwatersrand, Johannesburg, South Africa, from 10-14 September 2009. Papers are invited from scholars of African borderlands and borders at all levels. Financial support is available for participants.
There are many characteristics of border management, border life, and borderlanders that operate at borders everywhere, that inform the comparative and analytical foundations of border theory, and to which African borders are no exceptions. Indeed, African borders often exemplify extreme border characteristics. While for example the performance of sovereignty and control is a high-profile feature of any border post, it is particularly salient at African borders where the performance may exist in inverse relation to the substance of the state. Similarly, as borderlanders everywhere produce their own border theory rooted in social practice, thereby contesting the conventionally bounded citizenship imaginary of the state, the distance between borderlander and state claims to territory and identity in Africa are often significant, with few avenues for closing the gap. Few African countries, in contrast to Mexico and some others, have authorized dual nationality for its citizens, despite the impossibility of preventing it in practice.
Prospective areas of current and future enquiry include the meaning of ‘national’ borders in pre-, post-, multi- or trans-national societies. While the Westphalian map remains in place, giving borders transnational political identities of their own, to what extent do they have stability as cultural markers?
Should we start to consider national differences as purely political and economic matters: are there customs stations for customs?
Using the idea of borders as conduits, how do borders facilitate cultural exchange just as they equilibrate the disparities of value of commercial exchange, disparities that are themselves reflected in culture and in social contestation?
In many senses, therefore, the territorial border becomes less a boundary dividing identities into two nations than a bridge linking them in mutual dependence. Are these new forms of political and identity organisation only a reaction to uncertainty caused by the weakness or even the absence of state structures?
Can these orders substitute the state in the long run?
Might the strength and persistence of local political models lead to the transformation of the state as the only and unique model of organised power?
Or do they foreshadow a specific form of interlacement between non-state actors and the state that will lead to heterarchical political settings in Africa and elsewhere?
If so, what kinds of new borders - manifested physically, discursively, symbolically - are arising around such political forms?
We invite paper submissions on the following themes, but also welcome other related topics:
1. Conceptual frameworks for borderland research in Africa and the world
2. Boundaries and borderlands in a comparative perspective: methodologies and theoretical insights
3. The meaning of ‘national’ borders in pre-, post-, multi- or trans-national societies
4. Borderlands and cross-border economies
5. Borderlands and cross-border politics
6. Mobility across fixed and mobile borders
7. Borders in African philosophies
8. Inserting the history into borders and borderlands into history
9. Representations of borders and border crossing in cultural production
10. Borders, identity and borderland identities
Within this wide range of themes, we are seeking papers with the following characteristics:
Papers that are conceptual in nature;
Papers that seek to relate African fieldwork data to larger bodies of (theoretical) work;
Papers that are explicitly comparative in focus.
To apply, please send the following information to both David Coplan and Tara Polzer:
Name
Institutional affiliation
Contact Details (email and phone)
Paper title
Abstract (150-200 words)
Whether you are already a member of ABORNE
Whether you wish to become a member of ABORNE
For more information please contact David Coplan, Tara Polzer or Wolfgang Zeller or visit http://www.aborne.org
Call for Papers: AIDS, Family Health International (FHI)
Deadline: 1 May 2009
Family Health International and the journal AIDS are pleased to issue a call for papers for a forthcoming supplement dedicated to the topic of family planning and HIV. Submissions may include but are not limited to:
Biomedical research addressing safety and effectiveness of contraceptive methods for women with HIV
Behavioral research examining contraceptive practices and fertility desires of women and couples with HIV
Evaluations of service delivery approaches to integrating family planning and HIV services
Policy and programmatic case studies of family planning/HIV integration efforts
For more information about this supplement, including instructions for authors, please go to http://tinyurl.com/ah46mt or contact Rose Wilcher at rwilcher@fhi.org
Consultancies . . .
Call for Expressions of Interest - ICW External Evaluation: Feb to April 2009
Deadline: 13 February 2009
ICW has commenced work on an external evaluation to be carried out from February to April 2009. We are seeking expressions of interest from consultants to lead the evaluation process. Interested candidates must possess a strong background in monitoring and evaluation and advocacy and have experience of working for a network. S/he will need a sound knowledge and experience in one or more of the following areas:
International Development
HIV/AIDS
Advocacy
Gender and women’s rights
Network Development
We encourage and welcome applications from Women Living with HIV/AIDS.
Terms of Reference include:
Provide leadership throughout the evaluation process
Develop participatory and enabling methodology and tools to carry out the evaluation
Facilitate participatory data gathering activities with a broad range of international stakeholders, including staff, members, allies/partners and governing bodies, both face to face and remotely
Review relevant organisational literature
Work closely with the Evaluation Coordinator to develop the evaluation framework and provide summaries of stakeholder discussions as the evaluation progresses
Produce a final high quality evaluation report against donor requirements
Timeframe: Mid Feb - End April 2009 (approx 40 days). Hours per week: Approx 35 hours per week (variable).
Please note: Applicants must be able to:
Remain in consistent communication with the project coordinator by email, skype or phone
Be able to travel for up to 1 week on at least two occasions during March / April,
Read, write, listen and speak fluently in English
To apply, Please contact kproctor@icw.org with:
A letter outlining your interest in the role
Curriculum Vitae
Current rates
Short-listed candidates will receive a detailed Scope of Work and background papers,
Personal Specification
The ideal consultant to carry out the evaluation on behalf of ICW will:
Have a strong background in M&E and international development / HIV/AIDS / women’s rights / sexual and reproductive rights
Have carried out the evaluation of an organisation, preferably a network.
Have experience of working in (a) network(s)
Have experience of evaluating advocacy and/or have a thorough understanding of the issues around evaluating advocacy from working in an advocacy field
Have thorough knowledge of current trends and issues in the HIV/AIDS and/or women’s rights sector
Be sensitive to the GIPA principle and have experience of developing participatory monitoring and evaluation methodologies and practices
Be of like mind with ICW’s vision, purpose and values
Be able to work independently with minimal supervision
Have excellent communication skills (including verbal and written, and the ability to be a neutral but analytical listener, respecting confidentiality at all times)
Have strong analytical skills
Have strong research and facilitator skills (in particular be able to facilitate and record focus group discussions)
Be able to work to a tight and demanding schedule
Be available and willing to travel during the time frame March - April 2009
Be available and willing to work on a full-time basis during the time frame of the evaluation (mid-Feb - April 2009)
Language requirements: English essential (verbal and written); French and/or Spanish desirable
Vacancies . . .
3 (three) vacancies
Deadline: 12 February 2009
A local NGO involved with the welfare of Orphans and Vulnerable Children in farm communities is looking for suitable candidates to fill in the vacant posts of :
1. Finance / Administration Assistant (2 Posts):
The suitable candidates should have at least a minimum diploma in Accountancy and should be familiar with accounting and administration procedures in the NGO sector. Candidates with at least two years working experience will have an advantage.
2. M&E Officer
The post will be based in Harare and will involve extensive travelling in Mazowe district, Mashonaland Central.
Responsibilities will include:
Establishment of monitoring and evaluation procedures.
Design of participatory monitoring and evaluation tools and methodologies
Documentation of programme activities and outcome
Dissemination of findings to partners
The suitable candidate must have the following
A relevant qualification in social science or education
Experience of participatory evaluation methodologies
Proven analytical skills
Ability to work under pressure
Good communication skills including written and verbal
Fluent in English and Shona.
Computer literacy
A clean class 4 driving licence a must
To apply for these posts send application letter outlining current salary & benefits and CV, with three traceable referees to Finance and Administration Manager (Room G08), P O Box WGT 390, Westgate, Harare or e-mail fostad@cfu.co.zw or adminprpzw@tdhitaly.org
Accountant / Finance Manager - 3 month contract - CAMFED
Deadline: 13 February 2009
Experience required:
bank reconciliation
analysis of TB balances
updating of the fixed asset register
analysis of grant funds
preparation of all other year end schedules for audit purposes
working with auditors to finalise the year-end audit
Qualifications:
Accounting or Finance degree plus at least 3 years experience (mandatory)
Professional accounting qualification - CIMA/ACCA/CA (an added advantage)
Please send CV and covering letter to: The Executive Assistant, CAMFED, 4th Floor, Batanai Gardens, Harare or email to pjamu@camfed.org
Various vacancies - Plan International - Zimbabwe
Deadline: 15 February 2009
Plan is an international humanitarian, child centred development organization without religious, political or governmental affiliation. Plan offers equal opportunity employment to suitably qualified applicants for vacant positions within the organization. The Zimbabwe program is seeking job applications from suitably qualified candidates for the country office’s recruitment database file (for immediate and future use). Plan Zimbabwe offices are located in Harare (Epworth), Mutoko, Bulawayo (Pumula and Tsholotsho), Kwekwe, Mutare, Mutasa, Chipinge and Chiredzi.
1. Human Resources Administrator (Harare only)
Provides technical guidance and support to key Human Resources (HR) management processes in the area of staff recruitment, job profiling, staff induction, training and development, performance management, labour relations, leave management and the administration of the country’s human resources database system. Prepares HR reports and budgets.
Entry qualifications and Experience:
- A degree in Social Sciences or the related field
- A post graduate HR qualification desirable
- Good understanding and application of statutory and labour laws
- 5 years experience in human resource administration
- High degree of confidentiality and integrity
- Computer literacy skills
2. Administration Officers
Provides leadership in the management of the Program Unit’s administration function; responsible for procurement and logistics activities; operations budget management; contracts management and assets management.
Entry Qualifications and Experience:
- A degree in Administration, Business Studies or Commerce
- 5 years experience in a similar role preferably in an NGO environment
- Good management skills
- Analytical and problem solving skills
- Computer literacy skills
3. Accountants
Provides timely and reliable financial information and analysis that leads to effective decision making. Responsible for cash management; budget management; financial reporting and analysis and internal financial controls.
Qualifications and Experience
- A Degree in Accounting or a professional qualification such as CIS, ACCA or equivalent
- 5 years experience in a similar role preferably in an NGO environment
- Good management skills
- Analytical and problem solving skills
- Computer literacy skills
4. Assistant Accountants
Facilitate timely production of accurate financial reports by capturing accounting transactions timely and accurately; disbursement and receipt of cash resources; banking of cash collected; maintenance of inventory records and filing of all financial records.
Qualifications and Experience
- Higher National Diploma in Accounting or equivalent qualification
- 5 “O” levels including Mathematics and English Language
- 3 years working experience in a similar role preferably in an NGO environment
- Analytical and communication skills
- Proficient in computer skills and use of relevant accounting packages
Candidates who meet the above requirements should email their CVs and application letters to zwe.recruitment@plan-international.org Please mark the email clearly with the name of the position being sought and the preferred area of assignment. Reference and background checks will be performed for successful candidates including clearances on child related offences in conformity with Plan’s Child Protection Policy. Regret letters will only to be sent to short listed candidates.
Head of Programmes
Deadline: 15 February 2009
A leading NGO in the Zimbabwean reproductive health sector and part of one of the largest global health NGOs is looking for a Head of Programmes. The Head of Programmes will manage a small team of Project Managers working in all aspects of project design, proposal writing, fundraising, project management and reporting. He / she will need to work closely with the Country Advisor and senior managers to achieve his / her objectives. Some travel within Zimbabwe and externally will be required.
Key Responsibilities
1. Project design, proposal development and fundraising - Ensure that the organisation generates donor income to fund its activities.
2. Project management - Ensure that projects are well implemented and that outputs are achieved.
3. Project reporting - Ensure that the organisation complies with all donor reporting requirements.
4. Team Leadership - Ensure that the Projects Team is effective and members are skilled and motivated.
5. Accountability to the organisation - Ensure co-ordination, communication and compliance with organizational requirements.
Qualifications And Experience:
Degree or Higher Diploma in Business Studies or any Social Sciences.
Must have a Project Management qualification.
Masters degree in any of the following is an added advantage - Public Health, Health Promotions, or Community Development.
5 years demonstratable knowledge and experience heading a Project Team in an NGO set up.
Must have a clean class 4 driver’s licence
Email detailed CVs to hr@pszim.com or dadirai.mbuse@pszim.com
Programme Officer - Progressio
Deadline: 16 February 2009
The Programme Officer will assist the Progressio Zimbabwe Country Representative in developing, implementing and monitoring the country programme strategy and projects, ensuring alignment with Progressio’s international programme framework as well as the relevance of programmes within the local context, and efficiency and effectiveness in programme implementation. The post holder will also lead processes such as evaluations, research and preparation of other programme documentation. He/she will also be responsible for maintaining cordial working relationships with all partner organisations and other stakeholders.
Progressio is an International NGO which works towards the eradication of poverty and sustainable development. Our programmes mainly focus on building the capacity of local organisations and institutions through skill share and advocacy in three thematic areas, namely Effective Governance and Participation, HIV and AIDS and Sustainable Environment. Progressio has had a skill-share programme in Zimbabwe since the early 1980s.
Job responsibilities
Under the leadership of the Country Representative, participate in the formulation of the country programme strategy and projects.
Spearhead programme research and documentation.
Support the Country Representative in resource mobilisation and programme budget management.
Operationalise Progressio’s monitoring and evaluation framework - Regular Impact and Capacity Assessment (RICA) - for the country programme.
Play a facilitative role in the recruitment, orientation, training and monitoring of Development Workers (DWs) while ensuring a proactive service to DWs and partners.
Maintain working relationships with other parts of the organisation internally, partners, donors and other stakeholders and represent the organisation in the absence of the Country Representative.
Person specification
The post holder should have:
A Masters Degree level qualification or equivalent in a relevant discipline.
A minimum of five years’ work experience within the NGO sector, at the level of strategy formulation and management of multifaceted programme operations.
Experience in strategising for advocacy initiatives on governance in different contexts, capacity building within the NGO/CBO sector, training/facilitation methodologies and creating effective networks.
An understanding of the role which NGOs play in national and local development and how to facilitate this role.
Good skills in facilitating participatory planning, monitoring and evaluation, and knowledge/understanding of gender implications to programming.
Good team-building skills and consensus led approach to work; good interpersonal, presentational and communication as well as report writing skills.
Willingness to undertake road travel in Zimbabwe and have cultural sensitivity in working with people of different backgrounds.
Experience and understanding of at least two of Progressio’s key thematic areas, and a willingness to increase knowledge on other areas.
Excellent excel spreadsheet skills, particularly in constructing detailed activity budgets, and monitoring expenditure.
Experience of working with international and regional NGOs, faith based organisations and in resource poor environments.
An in-depth understanding of Zimbabwe’s social and political situation is highly desirable.
Applicants should submit a detailed CV and application letter addressed to the Human Resources Manager. In your application letter, please explain why you are applying for this post, and how you meet the requirements detailed in the person specification above. Your CV and letter should preferably be sent by email to progressioadmin@zol.co.zw , or alternatively by hand post to 195 Josiah Tongogara Avenue, Harare. Please note that due to the number of applications we receive; only shortlisted candidates will be contacted. Interviews will be conducted in early March 2009.
Vacancy: Youth Development Coordinator
Deadline: 18 February 2009
Young Africa, a Zimbabwean NGO, aims at the empowerment of underprivileged young people. At Young Africa Skills Centre (YASC) in Chitungwiza and the satellite centre in Epworth, we offer skills training in various trades, coaching for school drop-outs, organise festivals and have a number of community services. Our activities attract over 2000 youngsters per day.
Young Africa is in the process of becoming fully self-reliant in the near future, managed by local staff and financially independent from donor support, while remaining a shining example of a holistic and participatory development approach, stimulating youth to change the future for the better and stimulating other organisations to adopt our approach.
Young Africa works with the franchise concept: the staff, drawn from the local community, are the entrepreneurs of their own departments. This franchise concept results in autonomous and financially self-reliant skills training and production departments. Heads of Departments are thus franchisees, running their department as their own business, in which they need to invest capital in order to be able to harvest income and profit. Teachers and others staff will be employed by and under the pay roll of the franchisee HOD. School fees and revenues from production and other income-generating activities carried out by the department make up the earnings for the department, whereas they contribute a certain proportion of their income to Young Africa as rent for the use of the facilities that Young Africa offers them (e.g. workshop space, machines and equipment, classrooms, etc.).
For this position we are looking for a dedicated and inspiring person who will guide the youths at Young Africa in their holistic development, during and after their training at YASC.
Personal characteristics
Inspiring, charismatic leader
Honest, fair and responsible
Dedicated to the integral development of underprivileged young people
Committed and hard-working with a mind set on possibilities
Creative and innovative
Being able, by example, to inspire and motivate people
Compliance with the vision of Young Africa on development of young people
Job description (covering Chitungwiza and Epworth)
Be the point of contact for youths coming to Young Africa
Carry out Business studies lessons for students (SYB) and past-students (IYB)
See to proper execution of Life Skills and HIV/AIDS classes
Keep up-to-date database of current and past students
Organise special trainings for current and past students
Set up recruitment agency and have close contacts with Industry and past-students
Responsible for the Micro credit fund
Responsible for smooth running of YAYA and all entertainment activities involved
Organise festivals and events
Responsible for the operations of the school parliament
Administering the scholarship fund
Minimum qualifications and requirements
Sound academic background: O’ level, including English
Post High School educational qualification
5 years relevant working experience (youth project management level)
Experience in training and guidance of starting and improving small business
Advanced computer literacy (MS Office, Internet)
Please send a CV and motivation letter to mukurazita@youngafrica.co.zw
Administrative Secretary - ZIMCET
Deadline: 20 February 2009 (close of business)
The Zimbabwe Civic Education Trust (ZIMCET) Head Office in Harare, Zimbabwe invites applications from qualified applicants for the position of Admin Secretary.
Responsibilities and duties
Directs and controls the day to day activities of the Secretary/Receptionist, Driver and Office Orderly
Attendance to office maintenance issues
Ensures the smooth day to day running of the office
Logistics coordination
Maintenance of files
Coordinating workshops
Making travel arrangements for board and staff members
Ensures timely production and distribution of all documents required for meetings
Takes minutes of all staff meetings/ disciplinary meetings and meetings with donors as instructed by the Head of secretariat
Carries out any other assignments as directed by the Administrator & the Head of secretariat
Maintains Head of secretariat appointment diaries
Assists program staff in important duties
Qualifications
Executive Secretarial qualification
Experience
Experience in working in a general admin position
Computer Literacy
Petty cash management
Valid driver’s licence
Interested persons can submit their applications with detailed CV and two reference letters from credible referees to the Administrator at 217 S. Machel Ave West, Belvedere or alternatively email us at zimcet@mweb.co.zw
2 (two) vacancies - SAfAIDS
Deadline: 20 February 2009
Southern Africa HIV/AIDS Information Dissemination Service (SAfAIDS) is a regional NGO whose mission is to promote effective and ethical development responses to the epidemic and its impact through HIV/AIDS knowledge management, capacity development, advocacy, policy analysis and documentation. SAfAIDS is looking for a Programme Manager and a Research, Monitoring and Evaluation Officer to join its dynamic team based at the Pretoria Office in South Africa.
1. Programme Manager
This post requires a self-motivated and organised individual, able to coordinate and manage programme activities in various countries.
Requirements
A relevant first degree, preferably in Social Sciences
At least 5 years post qualification experience in HIV and development work
A good understanding of HIV and AIDS issues in Lesotho, Botswana and Malawi
Experience in training/capacity building, particularly in HIV and AIDS treatment literacy, advocacy and gender related issues
Experience in monitoring and evaluation of HIV related programmes
Experience in managing USAID projects would be an advantage
Ability to supervise Country Focal Persons
Ability to interact and work with stakeholders at all levels
Excellent oral and written communication skills
2. Research, Monitoring and Evaluation Officer
This post requires a highly skilled and motivated individual who is able to work with minimum supervision.
Requirements
A Masters degree or higher in statistics, demography, epidemiology, public health or related field
Minimum of 5 years hands on experience in research, design and implementation of monitoring and evaluation systems
A good understanding of HIV and AIDS issues in the region
Experience of working in the southern Africa region is an advantage
Excellent oral and written communication skills.
SAfAIDS is an equal opportunity employer: People living with HIV are encouraged to apply. We offer the right person an exciting opportunity to make a meaningful contribution to responses to the HIV epidemic in the region, competitive salary and benefits package. Interested applicants should send an application and CV, information on current salary, benefits and contact details of three referees to : SAfAIDS, 479 Sappers Contour, Lynnwood, Pretoria or e-mail to reg@safaids.net
Sponsorship Manager - ActionAid
Deadline: 20 February 2009
ActionAid International Zimbabwe seeks to re-advertise the position of Sponsorship Manager to provide leadership in fund raising for the child sponsorship programme and provide a link between partners, communities and funding affiliates for the benefit of the communities.
Duties will include
Manage the child sponsorship programme for the country programme
Identify potential local partners for the country programme
Identify development areas and carry out DA appraisals
Explore and identify potential funding opportunities
Carry out community sensitisation and mobilisation about AAIZ
Develop and support implementation of a resource mobilisation strategy in line with country strategy
A detailed job description will be available to successful candidates in the final shortlist.
Qualifications & Requirements
A relevant specialised Post -graduate qualification
5 years’ experience in relevant project management
Ability to write concise and accurate reports to agreed deadlines, and strong numerical skills to write financial reports
Proven ability of project planning, implementation and management especially with partners
Excellent communication skills in English and local languages, and sound analytical skills
Proficiency in the use of standard computer software, especially Microsoft Office package
Ability and preparedness to travel and work in difficult conditions
Please note applicants who previously applied for this post in 2008 may not re-apply for this position. While we value all applications, we can only respond to short listed candidates. Whilst all applicants will be assessed strictly on their individual merits, qualified women are especially encouraged to apply. To apply submit your curriculum vitae with an application letter to Human Resources, ActionAid International, 16 York Avenue, Newlands, Harare or Box CY2451, Causeway, Harare. Alternatively you may send applications to adminzim@actionaid.org
Low Input Gardens Project Officer - ActionAid
Deadline: 20 February 2009
Purpose of The Position: to provide leadership and support to AAIZ’s programs in agriculture and food security, including the production, processing, storage, marketing and consumption of vegetables and field crops. This position will work to strengthen the capacity of ActionAid’s partners in agriculture and food security as a way to build sustainable livelihood systems of the program.
Duties will include:
Planning and management - drawing up plan of action for the program, outlining the activity timing, location beneficiary budgeting and other related activities
Training - development & implementation training courses for staff, volunteers and selected lead beneficiaries. Incumbent shall also identify and supervise qualified trainers, produce relevant training materials and other necessary supplies. Such training shall include but not be limited to:
Low input gardening
Production of field/summer crops
Open pollinated seed production for both vegetables and field crops
Conservation farming techniques
Production and rearing of small livestock and
Principles of agricultural marketing management
Program Monitoring & Evaluation - Regular visits to volunteers and beneficiaries to monitor implementation of the program activities and make recommendations for possible improvements to the same
Documentation & shared learning -production of regular publications, reports and other materials that will help to publicize the activities of the project and share the same with interested stakeholders
A detailed Job Profile will be made available to shortlisted candidates.
Qualifications & Requirements:
A National diploma in agriculture
A Bachelor’s degree in Agriculture majoring crop science
At least 3 years experience in rural and urban development management, including agricultural extension or farm management, with at least one year in an NGO setting
Experience networking with and/or supervising other development partners & project planning, budgeting, monitoring and evaluation
Other requirements and competences
Demonstrated commitment and understanding of women’s rights issues, government policies, HIV/AIDS, food security, nutrition, livelihoods issues
Ability to write concise, accurate and analytical reports to agreed deadlines, and strong skills to monitor budgets and write financial reports
Knowledge and understanding of monitoring and evaluation processes and the ability to collate and analyse information
Ability to communicate effectively verbally and in writing in English and Shona/Ndebele
Good computer skills, particularly Microsoft packages
A clean class 4 driver’s licence
While we value all applications, we can only respond to short listed candidates. Whilst all applicants will be assessed strictly on their individual merits, qualified women are especially encouraged to apply. To apply submit your curriculum vitae with an application letter to Human Resources, ActionAid International, 16 York Avenue, Newlands, Harare or Box CY2451, Causeway, Harare. Alternatively you may send applications to adminzim@actionaid.org
Food Rights Program Officer - ActionAid
Deadline: 20 February 2009
Purpose of The Position: provide leadership on the right to food policy, advocacy and campaign work and to support the country team to deliver on the right to food and develop AAI’s positions and strategies as necessary to engage with or confront institutions and/or issues on the right to food, particularly as these affect women and girls in Zimbabwe, the SADC region and on the continent.
Duties will include:
Participate in the identification, formulation, design and implementation of activities under ActionAid’s country strategy for Zimbabwe
To identify, collaborate with, support and strengthen movements/networks of people and civic society partners working on the right to food and poverty eradication
Collect, collate and analyse programme-relevant data, and prepare technical, analytical or reporting documents required for programme management, monitoring and evaluation
Contribute to fundraising initiatives and help to broaden the understanding and leveraging of resources from the donor community
Empower communities and partners to mobilise and advocate for downward accountability of Zimbabwean, African and international, institutions and leaders to deliver on the right to food for the poor women and children, particularly those affected and /or infected by HIV/AIDS
Conduct face-to-face and other lobbying activities to persuade identified stakeholders to implement policies consistent with ActionAid’s campaign objectives
Assist in the management, monitoring and evaluation of programme activities
A detailed Job Profile will be made available to final shortlisted candidates.
Qualifications & Requirements:
A Bachelor’s degree in Agriculture majoring crop science/horticulture
At least 3 years experience in rural and urban development management, including agricultural extension or farm management, with at least one year in an NGO setting
Experience networking with and/or supervising other development partners & project planning, budgeting, monitoring and evaluation
Other requirements and competences
Demonstrated commitment and understanding of women’s rights issues, government policies, HIV/AIDS, food security, nutrition, livelihoods issues
Ability to write concise, accurate and analytical reports to agreed deadlines, and strong skills to monitor budgets and write financial reports
Knowledge and understanding of monitoring and evaluation processes and the ability to collate and analyse information
Ability to communicate effectively verbally and in writing in English and Shona/Ndebele
Good computer skills, particularly Microsoft packages
A clean class 4 driver’s licence
While we value all applications, we can only respond to short listed candidates. Whilst all applicants will be assessed strictly on their individual merits, qualified women are especially encouraged to apply. To apply submit your curriculum vitae with an application letter to Human Resources, ActionAid International, 16 York Avenue, Newlands, Harare or Box CY2451, Causeway, Harare. Alternatively, send applications to adminzim@actionaid.org
4 (four) vacancies
Deadline: 24 February 2009
A local AIDS Service Organization (ASO) wishes to recruit for the following positions:
1. Programme Officer - Training
The applicant must have at least a first degree in education, Social sciences or Health Sciences. A diploma in Training is an added advantage. Applicants must also have at least three years relevant working experience in an HIV and AIDS environment in a similar position. Highly computer literate and experience with Microsoft Office packages, PowerPoint, email and internet. Clean class four drivers’ license.
2. Programme Officer - Information, Advocacy and Gender
The applicant must have at least a first degree in Information and Communications or Gender Studies. A diploma in Media Studies is an added advantage. Applicants must have at least three years relevant working experience in an HIV and AIDS environment. Clean class four drivers’ license. Highly computer literate and experience with Microsoft Office packages, PowerPoint, email and internet. Clean class four drivers’ license.
3. Project Officer - Nutrition
The applicant must have at least a Diploma in Education or Health Sciences specializing in Food and Nutrition. A degree in a relevant application is an added advantage. Applicants must also have at least three years relevant working experience, preferably in an HIV and AIDS environment. Applicants must be computer literate and have experience with Microsoft Office packages, PowerPoint, email and internet.
4. Receptionist/Secretary
The applicant must have at least a Diploma in Secretarial Studies and excellent command of English. A higher national diploma is an added advantage. Applicants must also have at least five years relevant working experience preferably in an HIV and AIDS environment. Applicants must be highly computer literate and have experience with Microsoft Office packages, PowerPoint, email and internet, are highly organized and able to operate the switch board.
Qualified people particularly women living positively with HIV and AIDS are encouraged to apply. To apply please write to the Executive Director at thecentre@africaonline.co.zw or razin@africaonline.co.zw Detailed job specifications will be disclosed to short listed candidates.
Relief Field Officer - Norwegian People's Aid
Deadline: 27 February 2009
The Relief Field Officer will have the overall responsibility to ensure that the Emergency Support Project is implemented according to the organizational framework. His/her duties will ensure that all activities pertaining to the project are documented and records kept safely for use by other stakeholders. This post requires that the officer balances field and office work. He/she should be able to monitor field activities, manage the project and make recommendations for its continuous improvement. Specifically the person will be required to:-
Coordinate all activities under this project by providing (supervision, monitoring and back stopping support) support to the project.
Mobilizing communities so that they are able to implement project activities as outlined in the project proposal.
Prepare monitoring frameworks for periodic projects reports with regards to the progress towards achieving the set objectives and ensuring that these targets are met.
Monitoring operations of field assistants (where applicable) and ensuring attainment of quality results so that our work remains competitive.
Assist in setting up of procurement and accounting procedures of project materials.
Assist in writing of funding proposals to potential donors.
Contributing to the preparation of plans and budgets for the project and ensuring that these are adhered to.
Receiving progress reports from field monitors/assistants (where applicable) and prepare similar reports for use by management.
Undertake performance appraisals for field monitors/assistants (where applicable) aimed at identifying their training needs and make appropriate recommendations to programme manager in order to build internal capacity for enhanced output.
Responsible for documentation of project written outputs.
Ensuring that all the cross cutting issues i.e. gender, environments, HIV/AIDS and civic education are main-streamed in all the project activities.
Assist in carrying out baseline surveys and community needs assessment studies.
Undertaking internal reviews and evaluations of projects activities.
Identifying and liaising with strategic linkages/networks of the organization and representing the organization at various levels.
Receiving clients and dealing with general enquiries about the project work.
And any other tasks as may be directed by the Program Manager.
Person Specifications
Experience
At least four years relevant experience (rural development)
Experience and practice in project cycle management, logical framework analysis and participatory appraisal techniques
Qualifications
Degree or diploma in development studies, social science or related subject
Skills
Strong analytical, problem solving and conflict resolution skills
Strong communication skills (written and oral)
Facilitation skills - participatory approaches
Excellent written and spoken English language plus one local one
Unendorsed driving license (class four)
Computer skills (word and excel)
Commitment
Preparedness to work long hours and even during the weekends
Preparedness to travel most of the time including staying in a rural environment
Respect for NPA vision, goal, values and culture
Apply to: pb@npaid.org or norsk@ecoweb.co.zw
2 (two) vacancies - Legal Resources Foundation
Deadline: 28 February 2009
The Legal Resources Foundation, a local legal services NGO, invites applications from suitably qualified and experienced persons for the following two posts:-
1. Research Officer
Duties and Responsibilities
Conduct research and prepare detailed analysis on the following:-
New and existing legislation to identify gaps in the law.
Internal fieldwork and programme reports.
Reports of human rights abuses.
Court judgments to inform future law reform.
Analyse case work trends to inform advocacy initiatives.
Disseminate research information to relevant stakeholders.
Work with the Legal Programmes Director (LPD), Advocacy Officer and Education and Training Co-ordinator, providing data for effective monitoring and evaluation of programmes.
Establish and maintain databases for all research.
Prepare and submit research reports as and when required.
Qualifications and Experience
A degree in law, with at least three years experience since registration
Experience in research
Experience in documentation and databases
Proven analytical and report writing skills
Good computer skills
Understanding of civil society
2. Publications unit manager
Duties and Responsibilities
Planning and managing the LRF Publications Unit
Effective staff management of the Publications Unit
Commissioning new texts and revision of existing materials
Coordinating the work of part-time writers, editors and typesetters
Effectively and efficiently managing the printing needs of the organisation
Marketing the Unit’s publications
Qualifications and Experience
Relevant degree.
Comprehensive understanding of the publishing process, including editing
Marketing experience - able to strengthen current markets and develop new markets
Ability to manage a team
Writing skills particularly reviews and blurbs
Knowledge of developing databases
Understanding of the law will be an advantage
Applications received after the deadline will not be considered. The positions carry a competitive package which will be disclosed to the successful applicant. Applications accompanied by a comprehensive curriculum vitae should be sent to: The Support Services Director, P.O. Box 918, Harare, or email to ssd@lrf.co.zw
Regional Manager: Finance and Administration - MISA
Deadline: 3 March 2009
The Media Institute of Southern Africa (MISA) is a non-governmental organisation with members in 11 of the Southern Africa Development Community (SADC) countries. Officially launched in September 1992, MISA focuses primarily on the need to promote free, independent and pluralistic media, as envisaged in the 1991 Windhoek Declaration. We require the services of the following expert to be based at the Regional Secretariat in Windhoek, Namibia, with occasional travels to the national chapters in the region.
Job Purpose: To ensure the development, implementation and maintenance of finance and administrative systems at both the regional and chapter level
Key Responsibilities:
Strategic budgeting - Translates MISA programmes and projects into budgets to ensure strategic fundraising and appropriate allocation and management of financial resources
Managing MISA Finances - Controlling expenditure in accordance with MISA policies as well as in conformity with professional accounting principles and standards
Providing professional advice - Providing advice and expertise in all aspects of financial management for the organization
Financial reporting - Prepare annual and periodic financial statements as required; Arrange for the auditing of annual financial statements of the organisation and other audits as required by projects funding providers
Human Resource Management - Dealing with employee issues in accordance with policies to ensure motivation and commitment to the implementation of MISA programmes
Management of assets - Managing the organisation’s cash and other resources to ensure that they add value to the work of MISA
Supervision of subordinates - Provides guidance to officers working under the Finance and Administration Division to ensure that their performance conforms to MISA standards
Additional responsibilities:
Oversees the administration of the regional office payroll
Guides MISA chapters on the setting up of sound financial management systems in accordance with legal and regulatory standards
Allocates financial grants to MISA chapters in accordance with strategic management decisions
Qualifications:
Essential: An MBA specializing in Accounting or Finance or, alternatively, a professional accounting qualification such as CA, ACCA or CIMA
Desirable: Computerised Accounting
Experience: Must have more than 5 years post qualification experience in an accounting environment
Work Environment: Works from the MISA Regional Office and occasionally travels around the region providing guidance to Chapter staff on financial management matters
Letters of motivation, together with a detailed CV should be sent to the following email address: finance@misa.org or The Human Resources Officer, P/Bag 13386, Windhoek or hand delivered at 21 Johann Albrecht Street, Windhoek West. Only short listed candidates will be contacted.
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The Kubatana Trust of Zimbabwe and The NGO Network Alliance Project
PO Box GD 376
Greendale
Harare
Zimbabwe
Tel: +263-4-776008/746448
Fax: +263-4-746418
Email: admin@kubatana.org.zw
Website: www.kubatana.net
Visit www.kubatana.net Zimbabwe's civic and human rights web site incorporating an on line directory for the non-profit sector
 
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