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Employment opportunities in Zimbabwe

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Tuesday, February 22nd, 2011 by Bev Clark

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

Four (4) vacancies: BUIYSAP
Deadline: 24 February 2011

BUIYSAP: Nkayi

BUIYSAP is charitable, non-political and non-profit making youth project. BUIYSAP exists to empower the disadvantaged young people of Bulawayo and Matabeleland to break the cycle of poverty that will enable them to become self-reliant and to break the culture of silence so that they can make meaningful contributions to their own future.

1. Leadership Officer

Requirements

* Degree/Diploma in Development Studies or Related field
* At least two years relevant working experience with youths and rural communities
* Computer literate
* Driver’s licence

Duties:

* Responsible for the Youth Leadership Development at BUIYSAP
* Responsible for enhancing an integrated approach to Leadership Development i.e. Livelihood Training Activities and Advocacy for Basic Rights, both at Conceptual, Planning and Methodological levels
* Compile the Leadership Training Report for inclusion into the “BUIYSAP Status and Progress Report” and the Annual or Semi-Annual Reports. Prepare and produce educational material for use in BUIYSAP Leadership and other sessions

2. Life Skills Officer

Requirements

* Degree/ Diploma in Development Studies or Degree or Diploma in Counselling or HIV/AIDS Management
* At least two years relevant working experience with youth and rural communities
* Computer literate
* Driver’s licence

Duties:

* Responsible for the Life skills training programme
* Responsible for developing the Life Skills manual with the support from other relevant stakeholders
* See to it that Life Skills plans are implemented
* Hold Life Skills training sessions at least once a week
* Ensure that monthly evaluations of trainees are done
* Responsible for implementation of LPS activities according to plans and budgets

3. Accountant

Requirements

* Bachelor of Commerce Degree in Accounting or Higher National Diploma in Accounting or equivalent qualifications
* 2 years experience in NGO accounting environment
* Pastel is a must

Duties:

* Inspects books of accounts in the form of Cashbook, General Ledger and analysis book and maintain and update regularly whenever an accounting transaction occurs
* Uses manual or on computerized accounting package
* Prepare the financial report
* Plan cash flow, prepare reconciliations, trial balance, income & expenditure statement and balance sheet, consolidate all payment vouchers, deposit vouchers and journals and ensure that they are posted into the respective cashbook, general ledger and analysis book
* Monitor budget against actual income and expenditure and carry out variance analysis

4. Administration secretary

Requirements

* Certificate/Diploma in accounting
* Computer literate
* Experience in NGO accounting, will be an added advantage

Duties

* Prepare all payment requisitions and attach all relevant supporting documentation i.e. invoices, contracts, receipts etc
* Prepare and forward the requisition to the heads of department then to the Coordinator for approval
* Ensure all cash received is receipted and immediately banked
* Record all stock supplies in a stock supplies register immediately upon receipt
* Keep the following books, Cheque Books, Goods received Note books, Invoice/Debit Note books, Receipt Books, Petrol purchase order books/Fuel Coupons, used cheques, Audited Accounts

Hand deliver your application with CV to: The Board Chairperson, Dan Square Building, Office 8A, 55 Josia Tongogara and 4th Avenue, Bulawayo

Or respond by e-mail: eefexkay [at] yahoo [dot] com

Phone: +263-9-64575, +263-772-577331, +263-773-715982

NB. Only short listed candidates will be advised.

Two (2) positions: Local NGO
Deadline: 25 February 2011

1. Receptionist/Telephonist

2. Temporary Secretary/P.A.

A Harare based N.G.O. is looking to fill the above vacant positions and is therefore inviting interested individuals to submit applications and CVs not later than 25 February 2011. Reporting to the Office Manager, both positions require versatile mature individuals with a minimum of 3 years relevant previous experience. Other key attributes and requisites include, but are not limited to: a sound academic and professional background with a minimum of 5 ‘O’-levels; good track record; traceable references and and a pleasant disposition. The Receptionist position is fixed term contract post subject to renewal and the Secretarial position is a temporary post intended to run for three (3) months from 01 March 2011. This position is NOT subject to renewal.

Interested individuals are advised to submit letters of motivation together with current CVs not later than 25 February 2011 to: vacancies211 [at] gmail [dot] com

Only short-listed candidates will be contacted for interviews.

Part-time Programme Director: Envision
Deadline: 25 February 2011

Reporting to Building Bridges Partnership

Main responsibility
To provide strategic and implementation leadership for Building Bridges work with communities in Zimbabwe

Responsibilities

* To provide overall technical and administrative management of Building Bridges programme including:
o To supervise and coordinate the planning and implementation of the Building Bridges programme
o To oversee and quality control project activities and deliverables
o To monitor project performance against work plan objectives
o To develop and implement solutions to identified problems
o To ensure compliance with local laws and donor requirements
o To manage human and other project resources
* To guide the design, implementation, analysis and documentation of results of the programme
* To document best practices and ensure dissemination of information on programme activities
* To develop and maintain good working relationships with donors and stakeholders

Qualifications/Expertise

* Degree in development or related field
* Minimum of three years experience in NGO programme management
* Experience in conflict transformation work at community level
* Good knowledge of gender issues
* Ability to work independently (coordinate implementation of research project) without direct supervision
* Good interpersonal communication skills and ability to manage a team
* Ability to undertake regular travel within the country
* Driving license
* Computer literacy
* Excellent communication skills both verbal and written (documentation, report writing) in both English and Shona.

Contract Specifics

* Ideal start: April 2011
* Post is based in Harare with field travel as required for specific projects

The deadline for application is the 25th February 2011

Please address your CVs and application letter to: Sinikiwe Machanja, Envision Zimbabwe Women’s Trust, 9 Belfast Road, Emerald Hill or email smachanja [at] gmail [dot] com

Five (5) positions: The Zimbabwe National Network Of PLHIV (ZNNP+)
Deadline: 25 February 2011 (12 noon)

Faith Based Officer

Purpose: Co-Ordinate The Activities Of Member Religious Inter Faith Based Organizations

Main responsibilities: Coordinate HIV/AIDS activities of religious inter faith organizations and affiliate partner organizations, develop and manage the capacity building activities, coordinate the networking activities and resource mobilize for relevant activities.

Provincial Coordinator – Matabeleland South

Purpose: Facilitate Information Sharing And Co-Ordinate Capacity Development At Support Group Level

Main responsibilities: Coordinate provincial activities of the organization, develop and manage the provincial capacity building programme, coordinate the networking activities with identified key organizations, create awareness about the organisation, explore programming ideas and submit for proposals development, ensure timeliness and successful implementation of activities, prepare reports, develop and maintain a database of membership.

Qualifications and experience for Faith Based Office and Provincial Co-ordinator

- A degree in or diploma in social sciences, public health, law or equivalent from a recognized institution.
- A certificate or diploma in counselling and past relevant experience would be an added advantage.
- Ability and passion to work with people living with HIV/AIDS, excellent communication, interpersonal and computer skills, at least 5 years experience in an NGO environment.
- Computer literacy and a clean class 4 driver’s license is a MUST.

Three (3) drivers

Purpose: Ensure That All Errands Are Effectively Undertaken

Main responsibilities: Carry out delivery and collection errands, ensure motor vehicles properly maintained, effectively administer the vehicle log logging system and perform any other duties as required. Qualifications and experience Clean Class 4 Driver’s license, valid defensive driving certificate, an aptitude towards motor vehicle maintenance, at least 5 years driving experience, at least 5 “O” level passes, ability and passion to work with people living with HIV/AIDS, excellent communication and interpersonal skills.

Interested and suitably qualified candidates are encouraged to submit applications together with CVs via email to info.znnp [at] gmail [dot] com or courier or hand deliver to The Executive Director, ZNNP+, No 28 Divine Road, Milton Park, Harare.

People living positively are highly encouraged to apply.

Counter-Trafficking Officer: International Organisation for Migration (IOM)
Deadline: 27 February 2011

Vacancy Notice: SV2011/003
Type of Appointment: Special Short Term, six months with possibility extension

General functions:
Under the direct supervision of the Head of Programme, the general guidance of the Regional Counter-Trafficking Programme Manager and in coordination with the
Migration Health Advisor, the Counter Trafficking Officer will be responsible and accountable for managing the Counter-Trafficking Unit as well as the development and implementation of the overall counter-trafficking programme. In particular, s/he will:

1. Monitor national, regional and international migration trends and specific information of the geographical area for the strategic planning and development of human trafficking related programmes.
2. Coordinate, monitor and guide all IOM Zimbabwe counter-trafficking projects in accordance with IOM procedures and regulations to ensure financial and programming expected results including:
- Capacity building for the prevention and combat of human trafficking in Zimbabwe;
- Technical assistance for the development of public policies and a comprehensive legislation for national anti-trafficking initiatives; and
- Support to the implementation of strategies to prevent human trafficking in Zimbabwe
3. Set up and maintain IOM counter trafficking network throughout the country and train relevant IOM staff in International victim assistance guidelines for conducting interviews with trafficked persons and determine their eligibility as beneficiaries of assistance under counter-trafficking programme or other IOM programs;
4. Coordinate the implementation of direct assistance to victims with particular focus on ensuring, to the extent possible, the physical safety of counter-trafficking beneficiaries, and advise on all security matters related to the Programme;
5. Collect, analyse and disseminate information related to human trafficking in Zimbabwe and support counter-trafficking and safe journey information dissemination and campaign efforts in Zimbabwe;
6. Prepare regular project reports and donor reports according to IOM Zimbabwe and donor requirements;
7. Liaise and maintain efficient operational relationship with relevant key stakeholders in Zimbabwe, such as government, international organizations, non-governmental organizations providing care, counseling and support services to victims of trafficking;
8. Represent IOM at relevant stakeholder meetings in Zimbabwe and give presentations and conduct training briefings as required;
9. Prepare the IOM Zimbabwe counter trafficking strategy for 2011-2013;
10. Identify and develop counter-trafficking project ideas and proposals in collaboration with the Project Development Unit;
11. Implement a resource mobilization strategy to bridge the financial gaps within the unit;
12. Provide and share information and lessons learned with IOM Counter Trafficking focal points, both globally and regionally to build technical capacity within IOM;
13. Perform any other duties as may be assigned by the Chief of Mission in support of the Mission.

Desired qualifications:

Education:
a) Completed postgraduate university degree preferably in Law from an accredited academic institution.
b) A university degree in Social Work or related field acceptable.
c) A minimum of 3 years experience in social work and/or public interest law or related field, with background in working with vulnerable groups, especially migrants, women and children, and training in governmental and non-governmental contexts.
d) Good writing/communication, presentation and networking skills essential.
e) Excellent spoken and written English is essential and in-depth knowledge of local culture and languages, essential.
f) High level of computer literacy in MS Office applications.

Competencies:
a) Managerial skills, personal commitment and self-motivation,
b) Excellent communications skills, both written and oral, including the ability to prepare clear and concise reports.
d) Capacity to work effectively, flexibly and harmoniously within a team and with colleagues from various cultures and professional background.
e) Strong strategic and creative thinking.
f) Personal interest, commitment, efficiency, flexibility and willingness to work in difficult areas/situations and under pressure.

Languages: Excellent oral and written communications skills of English are a prerequisite.

Method of application: Interested candidates are required to submit a letter of motivation and curriculum vitae marked “Counter-Trafficking Officer” to the Human Resources Officer, P O Box 2570, Harare or hand deliver at IOM Harare, 142 King George Road, Avondale, Harare or email: vacancieshre [at] iom [dot] int

Only short-listed applicants will be contacted. If you have not heard from us by the 4 March 2011, please kindly accept that your application was unsuccessful.

Three (3) positions: Population Services Zimbabwe
Deadline: 27 February 2011

Be at the heart of an organisation that’s at the heart of the community!

Population Services Zimbabwe (PSZ) is a market focused, result oriented non-governmental organisation. We develop efficient, effective and sustainable family planning and reproductive health programmes, with particular emphasis on the lower income and disadvantaged communities in Zimbabwe. What we do makes a real difference to people’s lives, so its absolutely crucial that we fill our organisation with passionate people.

1. Marketing officer

Duration: 12 months Fixed Term Contract

As Marketing officer, you’ll take overall responsibility of the planning and preparation of PSZ’s marketing plans and budgets; co-ordinate national and clinic specific marketing plans in conjunction with clinic managers and teams; and monitor the marketing plan throughout the year to ensure that it is meeting business objectives and targets.

Qualifications

* A Degree in Marketing from a reputable institute
* IMM Diploma

Experience

* 3 – 5 years marketing experience in a reputable health organisation
* Management of advertising campaigns, market research, promotions and events and publications
* Print and design

Key Skills and Abilities

* Managing rapidly changing priorities
* IT proficiency in all MS packages
* DTP packages desirable
* Excellent written, presentation and verbal communication skills

Possession of a clean Class 4 Driver’s Licence is vital.

2. Procurement and Logistics Officer

Duration: 12 months Fixed Term Contract

As Procurement and Logistics Officer, you will be responsible for the overall sourcing of all goods and services for PSZ, as well as overseeing the logistical functions of the organisation.

Qualifications

* A Degree or HND in Purchasing and Supply from a reputable institute
* Professional qualification in Logistics

Experience

* 3-5 years of procurement and logistics management, preferably in a health organisation
* Knowledge of pharmaceuticals
* Working knowledge of fleet management and maintenance

Key Skills and Abilities

* Team player
* Excellent organisation skills
* IT proficiency in all MS Office packages
* Excellent written, presentation and verbal communication skills
* Proficiency in computerized procurement and logistics packages
* Good report writing skills

Possession of a clean Class 4 Drivers’ Licence is vital.

3. HR and Admin Officer

Duration: 12 months Fixed Term Contract

As HR & Admin Officer, you will provide HR Service in the following ways:

* Payroll Administration
* Personnel Administration
* Database Administration
* Contract Preparation
* Staff Induction
* Staff welfare
* Training and Development
* Administrative and logistical support to the Support Office (Head Office)

Qualifications

* A Degree in Human Resources or related field from a reputable institute
* IPMZ Diploma

Experience

* 3 – 5 years of relevant experience in human resources and administration
* Working knowledge of Payday Payroll and HR Management System
* Experience of setting up and maintaining efficient systems and record keeping

Key Skills and Abilities

* Excellent organisation skills
* IT proficiency in all MS packages
* Ability to use own initiative and prioritise workload
* Excellent written, presentation and verbal communication skills
* Team player

Possession of a clean Class 4 Drivers’ Licence is vital.

If you would like to be considered for any of these roles, please submit a covering letter and CV, outlining your experience to date, to:

The Team Development Manager
9 Bisley Circle
Belvedere
HARARE

Or send an email to recruitment [at] pszim [dot] com

Interview date: Week commencing 7th March 201
Start date: ASAP

Please note that only shortlisted candidates will be contacted.


Office Secretary/Cashier: Cordaid
Deadline: 3 March 2011

Base Station: Harare
Contract Duration: Initial fixed term of 3 months (probation period)
Terms: According to Cordaid’s Salary and Human Resource policy

Cordaid is an international catholic non-governmental organization, which combines more than 90 years of experience and expertise in emergency and structural poverty eradication. It has a network of almost a thousand partner organizations in 36 countries in Africa, Asia and Latin America. Our counterpart’s organizations work on various themes, including participation, emergency aid and reconstruction, health and well-being and entrepreneurship.

Improving Maternal and Neonatal health is one of the key objectives of the MOHCW. In line with this, the World Bank has decided to support the establishment of a results based financing program (RBF) which seeks to accelerate the availability, accessibility and utilization of quality health services at district and health centre level. The RBF programme will provide subsidies, directly linked to services delivered at primary health care level, i.e. rural (public and church-related not for profit) health clinics, and to a minor extent at secondary level, i.e. hospitals. The MoHCW and the World Bank have appointed an international NGO, Cordaid, to manage this Results Based Financing (RBF) program focused on supporting primary level of care and district hospitals in Zimbabwe.

Position & Responsibility

The secretary will be required to carry out all secretary related functions in support of the Head of Mission and other members of the management team. The tasks to be carried out are as follows:
-    To maintain communication flows/distribution/filing
-    To provide telephone and e-mail services
-    To draft communications, reports, minutes of meetings, etc. as required
-    To take care of office equipment and supplies
-    Manage the daily payments from the petty cash in accordance with the procedures in force (receipt and disbursement of funds) and establish, sign and issue appropriate receipts
-    To keep daily updated the cash book

Required Skills and Qualifications:
-    Holder of a recognized Diploma in Secretarial Studies, or Certificate in Secretarial Studies and or Certificate in Office Management.
-    Strong Bookkeeping knowledge is desired for this post.

Desired Qualities
-    At least 5 years of professional experience
-    Independent and dynamic
-    Capable of organising his/her own work
-    Trustworthy and confidential as required
-    Pleasant and polite at all times
-    Command of English and the local language
-    Experience with relevant computer software packages
-    Communicative, systematic, accurate, and open
-    Fostering a spirit of teamwork
-    Zimbabwean nationality

Availability and contract length:
-    Candidates must be available to start work on 15th of March 2011. An earlier start date is an added ad-vantage.
-    The initial fixed-term contract for this position will end on 15/06/2011. Possible contract extension after this date will depend on performance and project needs.

How to apply
Applications including a cover letter and extensive CV in English, including the contact details of at least three professional references, should be sent by email only to harare.office [at] cordaid [dot] net – mention the Position in Subject line. Female Candidates are encouraged to apply. Only short listed candidates will be contacted. Interviews will be held between Monday March 7 and Friday March 11. Cordaid is an equal opportunity employer and offer attractive remuneration package.

Please note that only short-listed applicants will be contacted for this position. An assessment will be part of the procedure.

Reconciliation Officer – CPIA
Deadline: 5 March 2011

The Centre for Peace Initiatives in Africa (CPIA),a regional peace organization based in Zimbabwe, is seeking a qualified individual to fill the position of Reconciliation Officer:

The post will carry the following responsibilities and the incumbent will be required to have the skills described:

Responsibilities:

* Prepare and implement strategic and operational plans for the national reconciliation programme.
* Ensure smooth organization, implementation and coordination of the activities and logistics of the national reconciliation.
* Build and maintain the profile of the project within CPIA and with external role players.
* Undertake research that will inform intervention strategies in the area of reconciliation.
* Prepare progress and other reports on the implementation of the programme.
* Develop project proposals particularly related to the objectives and targets of CPIA.
* Development and promotion of new networks and partners, linked to the above.
* Regular and timely reporting (internal and external) on ensuing project and activities.
* Perform any other related tasks as assigned by the Executive Chairman/Executive Director.

Skills

* At least Masters degree or equivalent qualifications in Peace Studies or related Social Sciences
* Two years work experience in a similar work environment
* Excellent knowledge of the current global political and social trends and that of the history and prevailing economic and political climate in Zimbabwe.
* Good working knowledge of research methods and research design.
* Well organized, efficient and attentive to detail.
* Maintenance of highest degree of confidentiality and maturity in handling sensitive matters.
* Good writing and editing skills with the ability to abstract and synthesize information from a range of sources.
* Strong information management skills, experience in strategic thinking and ability to work independently within a framework of careful communication, consultation and decision making.
* Demonstrate computer skills, use of electronic mail and internet.
* Ability to travel frequently and under the particular travel requirements of the assignment.
* Flexibility in assuming additional responsibilities

Negotiable salary

Please submit CV’s to the Executive Chairman, c/o Judith Kamutepfa, Director of Operations, 5 Corrine Close, Bluffhill, Harare, Or email to judykamutepfa1 [at] yahoo [dot] com

Operations Research Officer: The Elizabeth Glaser Pediatric AIDS Foundation (EGPAF)
Deadline: 7 March 2011 (12 noon)

The Elizabeth Glaser Pediatric AIDS Foundation (EGPAF) in collaboration with the Ministry of Health and Child Welfare seeks to support virtual elimination of pediatric HIV in Zimbabwe. This will be done using additional funding for the next five years. All implementation will be guided by national health strategy and in close collaboration with the MOHCW health teams at national, provincial, district and site level.

The Operations Research Officer will contribute to the development, training, implementation and data quality of EGPAF operations research activities that support the expansion and optimization of PMTCT services in Zimbabwe.

Essential Duties and Responsibilities

* Participate in OR protocol development for PMTCT and Pediatric HIV care
* Contribute to the design of data collection materials
* Submit and ensure IRB approvals for all EGPAF supported research activities are obtained and kept up to date
* Maintain all required regulatory documentation including correspondence with relevant IRBs
* Provide support for OR training activities, implementation of research protocols, and study procedures
* Participate and support data collection activities as necessary
* Participate in data compilation, data cleaning and reporting
* Participate in annual work plan development and review
* Through the Technical Director liaise with US based research departments personnel as needed

Qualifications

* MBChB, PHD or Master’s degree in public health related field with 4-8 years’ proven experience in the conduct of clinical, behavioral or operational research in Africa.
* Experience conducting and training staff to conduct focus group discussion, in-depth interviews, piloting tools, or community research experience are a plus.
* Skills in linking research and M&E.
* Knowledgeable in country level data management and compilation.
* Managerial skills – able to manage/co-ordinate the staff collecting data.

Knowledge, Skills and Abilities

* Previous working experience in Zimbabwe and knowledge of local culture.
* Ability to work well independently and within a team.
* Good knowledge and understanding of HIV/AIDS issues in the health sector.
* Good understanding of research methodologies, research ethics.
* Good attention to detail and excellent follow-through.
* Strong written and verbal skills.
* Computer literacy.
* Ability and willingness to undertake frequent in-country travel.

NB

* Contract will be for an initial 6-month period with a possibility of extension during the 5-year implementation cycle.
* Post is full time based in Harare.
* To apply send a cover letter and CV by email to recruit.orasst [at] pedaids [dot] org
* Emails should not exceed 30kb size. Emails larger than this will be automatically deleted.
* Applications should be received no later than 12 noon Monday, 7th March, 2011.
* Applications received outside the stated channels will be disqualified.
* Only shortlisted candidates will be contacted.
* EGPAF is an equal opportunity employer.


Regional Compliance Officer: Catholic Relief Services – Southern Africa Regional Office
Deadline: 7 March 2011

The Regional Compliance Officer (RCO) is a newly created position in the Southern Africa Region and it is part of the Regional Management Quality Team led by the Deputy Regional Director for Management Quality (DRD/MQ).  The RCO is responsible for ensuring that the management quality standards in the region are achieved.  The RCO works very closely with the DRD/MQ and the Regional Finance Officer (RFO) and the management quality team at the country program level to increase the country programs’ awareness of relevant management quality standards, best practices and to provide assistance in improving the MQ systems to include: financial, compliance, administrative, procurement, property/inventory, and human resources. The primary focus of the position will be compliance and finance related issues

Required Qualifications & Experience

-    Bachelors degree required in a related field, such as Accounting, Auditing, Finance or management; CPA, CIA
-    Five years of progressively responsible and directly relevant professional experience (e.g. risk management, compliance/audit, finance, accounting, grants management )
-    Strong and fluent (verbal and written) in the English language; very good writing skills
-    Knowledge of USG regulations and other regulatory compliance requirements affecting US non-profit organizations working internationally
-    Previous experience working with institutional donors (e.g. USAID, EU, UN)
-    Skilled in collecting, synthesizing and analyzing data; detail-oriented
-    Knowledge of CRS’ systems, policies and procedures preferred; understands financial impact of activities
-    Demonstrated ability to transfer knowledge and provide coaching and training
-    Familiarity with and acceptance of CRS Guiding Principles
-    Demonstrated strengths in relationship management; able to work cooperatively with diverse groups of people at all levels in a multicultural team environment
-    Strong quantitative and analytical skills
-    Willingness and ability to travel approximately 30-40% of time within the region, CRS/HQ and other agency locations throughout the world.

Foreign Language Requirements: French is highly preferred; Portuguese is desirable.

Those who meet the above criteria are invited to submit their applications together with a cover letter and detailed Curriculum Vitae that includes the names and contact details (plus e-mails addresses) of three traceable references. Applications should be clearly marked “REGIONAL COMPLIANCE OFFICER”.  Only short-listed candidates will be contacted.  Please submit to:  recruitment [at] saro [dot] crs [dot] org

SAMWU Condemns Arbitrary Arrest of 52 Socialist Activists in Harare

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Tuesday, February 22nd, 2011 by Bev Clark

The South Africa Municipal Workers Union (SAMWU) has just published this statement:

SAMWU PRESS STATEMENT

22 February 2011

This Union is outraged at the arrest of 52 activists in Harare on 19th February by armed security personnel. It appears that their only ‘crime’ was to be part of a discussion group, with a film examining recent events in Egypt and the Middle East.  They are all currently being detained in Harare Central Prison. This unprovoked attack on a peaceful political education session is indicative of the type of terror that was unleashed by ZANU-PF in the run up to the last elections.

The purpose then as now, is clearly to instil fear into the general population in an attempt to demobilise democratic forces from asserting their rights. ZANU-PF has made it clear that they intend to win the next elections, even without an agreed constitution in place, and to win it by any means.

Zimbabwe continues to be in a state of siege. The working class and the poor continue to bear the brunt of the prolonged economic crisis while those in positions of power enjoy all that money can buy.  It is therefore imperative that those who wish to see a peaceful and prosperous Zimbabwe, where all are able to share in the resources of the country, must speak out when such attacks take place. They do not belong in a democratic society, and are a crude attempt to intimidate those courageous enough to say that another Zimbabwe is possible.

We demand that the 52 persons arrested be immediately released, and that if any charges are brought against them, that they be vigorously challenged and decisively refuted as justice demands they be. Furthermore, that those who disrupted this peaceful gathering be called to account and be exposed for what they are, wreckers of democracy.

“I feel his breath upon my hands”

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Monday, February 21st, 2011 by Bev Clark

Sitting at a table in the Sterling, I am asked by a student if I will tie his necktie. A glance reveals the absence of hands. Thalidomide? He has a faint German accent and my mother’s eye’s—soft, moist, and brown. I stand behind him, uncertain and shaky. There is nothing of the surgeon’s self-assurance in my hands. The act is one of great intimacy. I feel his breath upon my hands, my wrist rests upon his neck. The boy’s utter submission. At last it is done. I move the knot under his chin and button the shirt beneath it.

“I have an interview today,” he tells me.

“Then you need to look your best. Good luck.”

RICHARD SELZER, from Diary, YaleUP.

Source: It’s a kirby

Always there

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Monday, February 21st, 2011 by Bev Clark

Revolution is not something fixed in ideology, nor is it something fashioned to a particular decade. It is a perpetual process embedded in the human spirit.
- Abbie Hoffman

It’s a bit smelly in Zimbabwe

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Monday, February 21st, 2011 by Bev Clark

On Saturday evening I got a text message saying that a member of our Kubatana team had been arrested and was being detained at Harare Central Police Station. His crime? Attending a public meeting convened by the International Socialist Organisation (ISO). ISO felt it useful to bring together members of the public and colleagues in civil society to discuss the events in Egypt.

A paranoid regime responds just like the Mugabe one did on Saturday. It closed the meeting down. Arrested everybody. And held them until Monday morning without allowing them any legal representation.

Stupid bully boys.

The events in Egypt have been broadcast by all major media houses and many Zimbabweans have gotten to hear and see the effects of people power – it brought Mubarak down. And if all the moons and the stars alike align, it will bring Mugabe down too. The more you suppress dissent and the more you rule with an iron fist, the more the people will Hate you. Its not rocket science, its pure fact.

My mother always liked to use the phrase: its like farting against thunder.

That’s exactly what Mugabe and his authoritarian regime are doing in Zimbabwe. They can puff and puff all they like, but eventually they’ll suffocate themselves through suppressing the will of the people.

As we said in our latest Kubatana newsletter:

Sit at the feet of the master long enough, and they’ll start to smell.
~ John Sauget

And many of us are enough of the stench.

Zimbabweans are their own liberators

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Monday, February 21st, 2011 by Bev Clark

Trevor Ncube is the proprietor of M&G Media, owner of the Mail & Guardian; he is also publisher of the Zimbabwean newspapers The Standard, The Zimbabwe Independent and NewsDay. Here’s come recent reflections from Trevor:

Zimbabwe is neither Tunisia nor Egypt. Far from it! In fact, Zimbabwe’s political predicament is far worse than that of these two North African countries before their recent revolutions.

But events in the two countries have certainly planted ideas in Zimbabweans’ minds that may influence the country’s future in a significant way.

Comparisons can be odious but this is an exercise worth doing in this instance. Until Tunisia’s Jasmine Revolution and Egypt’s Nile Revolution, both were considered passive and docile societies. Zimbabweans are equally perceived as apathetic and docile for having tolerated Robert Mugabe’s repressive regime for so long. Their fear of Mugabe’s army, police, intelligence agents and youth militia has kept in check any desire to demand freedom through revolutionary means.

Similarly, for decades Egyptians and Tunisians lived under the paralysing fear of their leaders’ repressive apparatus – but they finally overcame the fear and liberated themselves.

Like Egypt and Tunisia, Zimbabwe has a technologically savvy young and educated population, yet South Africa, Britain and other countries have provided a safety valve and cushion for them. The rural populace has, mostly through coercion, continued to provide pivotal support for Mugabe’s Zanu-PF, thereby thwarting any efforts to create the critical mass needed for a people-power uprising.

Social media, particularly Facebook and Twitter, played a central role in the Tunisian and Egyptian revolutions. Unfortunately the internet is creaky in Zimbabwe and mobile-telephone operators’ offerings lag behind the rest of the world – while also being susceptible to political arm-twisting. Current legislation renders internet service providers and mobile operators powerless against Zanu-PF bullying.

‘Degree in violence’ As in Tunisia and Egypt, many Zimbabweans consume satellite television and watch the same cable networks, such as al-Jazeera, that played a pivotal role in the success of the North African revolutions. Yet Zimbabwe’s pliant, state-controlled broadcaster must surely enjoy wider audiences by dint of affordability more than anything else. State-controlled newspapers spew government propaganda and outright lies, further bolstering Mugabe.

Perhaps the biggest difference between Egypt’s Hosni Mubarak and Tunisia’s Zine al-Abidine Ben Ali, on the one hand, and Mugabe, on the other, is that Mugabe has an impressive record of using state violence against defenceless citizens. This is something he openly boasts about, claiming, for instance, that he has a “degree in violence”.

There is a belief about Mugabe that political power came through the barrel of the gun, and Zanu-PF was singularly responsible for this, so it will not hesitate to defend it with the gun. But Zanu-PF’s political power has seen people’s freedoms diminish, putting it in direct conflict with the people’s will.

The military, police and intelligence services in Zimbabwe long ago lost their professionalism; they see their brief as that of defending Mugabe and Zanu-PF. They have not hesitated to act against the people in quelling civil unrest or in advancing Mugabe’s political agenda during elections. There is a strong sense they would side with Mugabe were the people to revolt. It can be argued, though, that the foot soldiers may resist orders from on high to shoot, if push comes to shove.

The problem with repression is that dictators need more and not less of it to stay in power. And more repression begets anger and resentment, which require more doses of repression, which in turn create the conditions for an uprising as happened in Tunisia and Egypt. In Zimbabwe this vicious cycle can only be broken by the people taking matters into their own hands.

The North African revolutions have potent lessons for Zimbabwe. Key among these is the fact that no amount of repression can kill the people’s desire to free themselves from dictatorship. The time will come when the masses cast away their fear and claim their freedom.

Confronting the oppressors In Tunisia, the tipping point was the self-immolation of Mohamed Bouazizi, an unemployed college graduate: this brought decades of pent-up feelings to the surface. There is no knowing what will cause Zimbabweans to jettison their fear and confront their oppressors. Zimbabweans fought a gallant war of liberation in the 1970s; they can do  it again.

Another powerful lesson from Tunisia and Egypt is that opposition political parties are not prerequisites for a revolution. Frustrated by weak and ineffectual opposition to their rulers, Egyptians and Tunisians stood up and filled the power vacuum. Zimbabweans find themselves in similar circumstances: the opposition has failed the people countless times.

By their very nature, opposition political parties tend to cut deals that don’t deliver a people-driven agenda. It is obvious that the current political accommodation in Zimbabwe has delivered more benefits to opposition politicians than to the people.

It is doubtful, in the circumstances, that genuine political change would come to Zimbabwe through a free and fair election. The March 2008 poll was as free and fair as any election could be, but it lacked the methodology for the transfer of power – and the situation hasn’t changed. The prospect of people power bringing change also appears  remote at the moment, but circumstances demand it.

We must avoid confusing the people with the opposition. This is the mistake Africa has made, which has resulted in a defective model of democratic transition. The opposition merely replaces a dictatorship with a newer version that still compromises the interests of the people.

Indeed, the single most important lesson from Tunisia and Egypt is that we as Zimbabweans are our own liberators. So let us stop complaining about the lack of international support. Why should the European Union, South Africa, the United States, the United Nations, the African Union or the Southern African Development Community help us when we are doing very little for ourselves? The world will only help us when we stand up and fight for our freedom and reclaim our country from Mugabe and the arrogant clique around him.

Price for freedom Regrettably, no matter how justified our struggle for freedom is, international attention and support will only come as the body count of innocent people increases on our streets. There is a huge price to be paid for freedom — history has many examples of this. The Zimbabwean masses have to do what they have got to do; the cost of doing nothing is too high.

All the ingredients for a people-driven revolution are present in Zimbabwe. These include the kleptocratic Zanu-PF elite, which thinks it is invincible and uses the bogeyman of the return of colonialism to cling to power. It includes, too, frustration with the politically clueless opposition, particularly the Movement for Democratic Change  (MDC), which is always outwitted by Zanu-PF and has failed to provide robust strategic leadership. This points to the need for the people to take charge of their own liberation.

The people are angry and hurt from years of abuse. Decades of political repression and economic mismanagement and corruption have seen the political elite get filthy rich while the majority has become destitute. Education and health infrastructure has collapsed as a result of lack of investment and the flight of skills.

The electricity, water and road infrastructures have decayed, taking a huge toll on the economy and the quality of life. The government and the struggling private sector have failed to create jobs for the hundreds of thousands of qualified youths who roam the streets.

Attempts at resolving the Zimbabwean political question through the ballot box have been frustrated by Zanu-PF’s resorting to violence and intimidation. Where these tactics have failed, Zanu-PF has simply refused to transfer power — as happened in 2008, resulting in the current political arrangement with the two MDC formations.

I have written before about the need for a “Third Way” in Zimbab we’s politics. Egypt and Tunisia tell us that perhaps the people constitute that Third Way in resolving our political impasse. Only a new beginning will suffice for Zimbabwe to regain its past glory. Sadly, both Zanu-PF and all MDC formations appear frustratingly clueless – they are caught in a conundrum in which they cannot figure out how to move the country forward.

Critically important at this juncture is that Zimbabweans debunk the childish and unhelpful attitude that equates criticism of the opposition MDC with a lack of patriotism. This is exactly the same attitude that gave us Zanu-PF. This attitude says the MDC can do no wrong, and when they do it’s not their fault because they are victims of circumstance. This is a dangerous attitude that is comfortable with mediocrity for as long as it brings change — any form of change.

Tunisia and Egypt have restored our collective faith in the power of the people. All evidence points to the fact that Zanu-PF is shaken by the North African revolutions, but is in denial mode and will respond to any nascent uprising the only way it knows best – through repression and state-led violence. Yet it is naive to believe the people will accept this as their permanent condition.