Below is an email we got from a Kubatana subscriber.

My dream this year is to see a democratic transition in Zimbabwe. I believe as an individual I can contribute towards the realisation of this goal without expecting personal rewards. I want to develop the habit of volunteering towards bettering my family, church and immediate community and society. – Ittai

I’m in full support of Minister Biti’s ban on second hand underwear. I just don’t support his logic for it. Biti is variously quoted as saying

“I am told we are now even importing women’s underwear in this country. How does that happen? If you are a husband and you see your wife buying underwear from the flea market, you would have failed”

I’m not certain how many men have an intimate knowledge of the details of their partner’s under garments, but I would wager very few. Be it La Senza or Mupedzanhamo, barring stains and large gaping holes, I quite doubt the ability of the average Zimbabwean man to be able to tell the difference. The only time men really seem to notice is when it is unattractive. And how many really care? More importantly, are we as women willing to let them? It seems to me that millions of women all over the world, including Zimbabwe, have struggled for sole custody of their bodies and the right to clothe them as they see fit. In other words, except for the obvious health and safety issues which are the government’s and particularly the Minister of Health’s concern, it is neither the government’s nor the Minister of Finance’s business where women buy their underwear.

It’s a new year and it’s that period when people say all kinds of silly things and expect to be taken seriously. From ordinary Jacks to extraordinary Dicks, you hear them mouthing crap and you wonder what inspires this specialisation in crapology. Then you think, maybe they are exhibiting unbound elation that they made into the New Year when other people were not so fortunate. But then, is being alive reason to say silly things? So, imagine the response to the question, “Why are you being silly,” “Because I’m alive!” I am not just talking about the so-called resolutions for the fresh year which history has shown have become fashionable empty proclamations of nonexistent faith, but perhaps importantly I am inevitably referencing the political.

I heard the other day a Zanu PF (who else?) mandarin going on and on about how his party would open up the primary election contests where every Jack and Dick would throw in their hat. He obviously did not include himself, for if he did, it would mean he would also be welcoming challengers within the party to vie for the representation of the rural folk where voters have been taken for granted for 30 something years. But knowing these people and their history of violence where they have indeed become career politicians through means nefarious, the sincerity is suspect as rejection in primary polls automatically means “ABCya” to being part of that plutocracy that knows no shame. So why dice with “economic death” as it were if you can afford not to?

A spook or former spook, whatever his “official” title is, was reported to be challenging a scion of Zimbabwe politics, alleging the nephew of the president had done jack for the people. Predictably, the dreadlocked one struck back with the usual foul language, betraying his aversion for popular democracy. It would be interesting then if the guy fingered for “invading” Kuimba Shiri last year was rejected by the people during the primaries. Would he blame the MDC-T for his loss? He would he blame sanctions? I strongly suspect he would blame it on vote buying, himself knowing only too well of course how this works!

Then I also read the other day another day the MDC-N national organising secretary claiming the MDC-T was bent on turning the city of Bulawayo into some kind of Gehenna, citing policy proclamations by the MDC-T leadership in the city. He proffered all kinds of silly case examples, and I wondered why he was vesting the MDC-T with so much powers, the omnipotency of the gods. It was as if the MDC-T says jump and the people merely ask how high? Surely, does the MDC-T wield that much power over the people of Bulawayo that at the behest of Tabitha Khumalo and others, the city risks being turned into a sinner’s paradise? In any case, all Zimbabwean cities are faced with the same bloody issues whose authors are already known. Yet we have a chap who should know better seeing that he himself has no constituency he represents going on with the crappy political rhetoric “made popular” by such compatriots as Gabriel Chaibva, Jonathan Moyo, Chris Mutsvangwa, Godwin Nguni and many others who have made very self-righteous comments about the PM when they themselves have failed to call Mugabe’s bluff about extra-marital affairs and living with HIV within Zanu PF apparatchiks.

And you can bet your butt that as elections approach, we shall be subjected to even more silly crap from educated men and women in politics. But then hey, politics is by its nature elitist, excluding the voices of the ordinary folks, that’s why we have these petite bourgeoisie intellectuals saying all this kind of nonsense and expecting to be taken seriously.

If you’re a young Zimbabwean looking for work experience here are some opportunities for you …

Finance Assistant Intern: Progressio Zimbabwe
Deadline: 12 January 2012

Full time twelve-month placement, based in Harare

Job Purpose: The Finance Assistant will assist the operationalisation of proper finance and administration procedures that are in line with organizational guidelines and internationally recognized standards of accountability in the country office and between Progressio and its partners.  The Finance Assistant will also support in managing the Country Office and project budgets and ensuring compliance with finance related donor requirements.

Job responsibilities include
-Assisting in ensuring proper financial admin procedures in the Country Office
-Assisting in providing support to the Finance and Administration Officer in budget preparation and budget management
-Assist in ensuring that Progressio Zimbabwe complies with all financial requirements of donors on all grant funded projects
-Participating in purchasing for goods and services and processing of payments in line with procedures

Person specifications
-Currently studying for a degree or holder of a first degree in accountancy
-Computer literate, especially working knowledge of Microsoft Excel (or equivalent spreadsheet applications) and ability to learn other software packages
-Excellent command of written and spoken English
-Highly adaptable and a fast learner

All those interested are to send through their application letters and detailed CVs to sandra [at] progressio [dot] org [dot] zw

Interviews: Week of 15 January 2012 (in Harare)

Programme Assistant Intern: Progressio Zimbabwe
Deadline: 12 January 2012

Full time twelve-month placement, based in Harare

Job purpose : The Programme Assistant will assist in ensuring the smooth functioning of the Country Office and its programme processes, facilitating smooth interaction with the organisation’s stakeholders and managing Progressio Zimbabwe’s communications activities.

Job responsibilities include
-Assist in providing support to Country programme development and management processes
-Assist in maintaining programme management information and communication systems in the Country Office
-Assist in ensuring that the Country office runs smoothly

Person specifications
-Currently studying for a degree or holder of a first degree in social sciences
-Knowledge of SPSS a must
-Excellent command of written and spoken English
-Highly adaptable and a fast learner

All those interested are to send through their application letters and detailed CVs to sandra [at] progressio [dot] org [dot] zw

Interviews: Week of 15 January 2012 (in Harare)

Intern: Finance
Deadline: 13 January 2012

A Church based organisation in Harare is seeking the services of an Intern for a period of 12 months commencing January 2012. The position is only available to students undergoing degree programmes in related fields.

Job purpose: Strengthens the operations of the Finance Unit to deliver its mandate in the most effective and efficient manner at Diocesan and National levels.

Academic qualifications: Studying towards a University degree in Finance, Accounting or Business Administration, Audit or related fields.

Work Experience
At least one year experience in Finance, Accounting, Audit or Business Administration in a Church or NGO field.
Ability to prepare analytical financial and management reports.
Having worked with donor funded programmes.

Required Competencies
Analytical skills, ability to link faith and justice
Communication skills – writing, presentation and facilitation
Creativity in programme design and management
Ability to combine office and field work
Ability to work in a team and also provide leadership at own level
Self supervision
Commitment to the Christian values of the organisation on and off work.

Essential job results
Student currently enrolled for a degree programme in Accounting, Finance or Business Studies
Experience in cashbook and bank reconciliation preparation
Excellent skills in Microsoft Office package (Outlook, Word, Power Point, Excel, Access)
Knowledge in Pastel Accounting Software will be an added advantage
Ability to work under pressure and meet cut-off dates or deadlines.

Duties
Assisting in financial reporting processes.
Assisting in field audit visits.
Assist in administrative record keeping.
Any other assigned duties.

Application procedure
All interested interns candidates who meet the requirements listed above are to send in their applications enclosing the following:

Motivation Letter
Candidate’s Curriculum Vitae
Certified copies of current educational and any professional certificates
Details and contact numbers of two referees
Dates of availability to commence work if offered position
Letter of recommendation from your university, stating that you are currently enrolled and your expected date of graduation.

The full remuneration package and other conditions of service will be disclosed to shortlisted candidates only. Due to the large numbers of applications communication will only be made to shortlisted candidates. Applications should be sent to: ahr54 [at] ymail [dot] com

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

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

Finance Officer: SAYWHAT
Deadline: 13 January 2012 (5pm)

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

Key Duties and Responsibilities
-Development of sound SAYWHAT financial policy and internal financial control mechanism and monitor the compliance
-Preparation of all the SAYWHAT accounts, reconciliations, journals and ledger administration
-Monitoring cash flow of SAYWHAT in line with the available agreements
-Managing the SAYWHAT payroll
-Preparing and submitting monthly financial reports to the Executive Director
-Compilation of annual budgets, cash flow forecast and financial management reports on monthly & ad hoc basis
-Proposing and discussing changes and improvements to the SAYWHAT accounting setup in compliance with international standards of accounting
-Controlling budgets as per donor specifications
-Preparing financial reports on ad hoc basis for submission to the Board and NCC members by the Executive Director
-Any other financial duties assigned from time to time by the Executive Director

Qualifications and Experience
-Bachelor of Accountancy, B.Com or equivalent Accounting Degree
-CIS, ACCA, CA, HND or equivalent
-At least 2 years working experience in the NGO sector
-Clean class 4 Drivers’ Licence

Duration of contract: Two years renewable and negotiable

Package: A competitive package commensurate with qualifications and experience will be communicated to the short listed candidates

Full job description available on request from saywhat [at] mweb [dot] co [dot] zw

To apply: Email your cover letter and CV to saywhat [at] mweb [dot] co [dot] zw with “FINANCE OFFICER” in the subject line.

Project Monitoring & Evaluation Specialist: CARE International in Zimbabwe
Deadline: 13 January 2012

Location: Masvingo

Job summary
Reporting to Project Manager, the Project M&E Specialist will be responsible for coordinating all PRPII and FAO Monitoring and Evaluation activities, survey work and analytical sessions undertaken at his/her level. S/he will work closely with the Project Information and Data Administrator and liaise with other Programme M&E Officers in the implementation and reporting of program activities. Most importantly the incumbent will be accountable to primary stakeholders. S/he will be responsible for staff development in data collection, supervising enumerators during data collection and taking part in the actual data collection process. S/he will develop data entry templates as well as participating in data entry, data analysis and reporting. The Project M&E Specialist provides guidance and direction to district staff by drawing their attention to project requirements during monitoring and evaluation. S/he will work closely with management, technical specialists, field staff and support staff in the whole monitoring and evaluation process of programme activities.

Minimum qualifications and experience
-Degree in Social Science, Statistics or Agriculture
-Relevant M&E experience in the PRP environment will be an added advantage
-Experience in research, designing and coordinating M&E exercises and subsequent quantitative and qualitative data analysis
-Good interpersonal and communication (verbal and written) skills
-Excellent interpretation and analytical skills
-Capacity to work independently

Interested candidates who meet the stated qualifications should submit applications and updated Curriculum Vitae to vacancies [at] carezimbabwe [dot] org or

The Employee Relations & Recruitment Manager
CARE International in Zimbabwe
8 Ross Avenue
Belgravia, Harare

The Employee Relations & Recruitment Manager
CARE International in Zimbabwe
P.O. Box HG937
Highlands, Harare

Monitoring & Evaluation Assistant: CARE International in Zimbabwe
Deadline: 13 January 2012

Operation Area: Masvingo & Gweru

Job summary
The Monitoring and Evaluation Assistant will be responsible for the design and development / implementation of the Project Management and Evaluation System in line with the Maternal & Child Health (MCH) and Nutrition project logical framework and in concert with the technical expertise from the CARE member partner. S/he will develop / implement M&E tools and a reporting system for the project. S/he prepares and provides monthly consolidate project and client M&E reports to the project manager. S/he will contribute towards the existing partners and District Supervisors’ forms to ensure that data being collected adds value and is useful I in the development of the MCH and Nutrition methodology and the quality of impact data. S/he will provide or organize training of project staff in M&E to ensure that they have the technical competence and understand the value of M&E in their day-to-day implementation of duties. S/he will coordinate the implementation of mapping surveys, needs assessments, baseline surveys and final evaluations as and when planned under the direction of the Project Manager.

Minimum qualifications and experience
-A degree in Social Science / Population Studies / Demography / Statistics or Public Health. A Master’s Degree would be an added advantage.
-At least 5 years’ experience in designing and managing project management information systems (MIS). Knowledge in health information management systems critical. Knowledge in Anthropometry (MIS) and nutrition programming is required.
-Strong working knowledge of HIMS, SPSS and Epi Info.
-Experience in research of designing and coordinating M&E exercises and subsequent quantitative and qualitative data analysis.
-Good interpersonal and communication (verbal and written) skills.
-Excellent interpretation and analytical skills.
-Capacity to work independently.

Interested candidates who meet the stated qualifications should submit applications and updated Curriculum Vitae to vacancies [at] carezimbabwe [dot] org or

The Employee Relations & Recruitment Manager
CARE International in Zimbabwe
8 Ross Avenue
Belgravia, Harare

The Employee Relations & Recruitment Manager
CARE International in Zimbabwe
P.O. Box HG937
Highlands, Harare

Vacancy Announcements: UNDP Zimbabwe
Deadline: 13 January 2012

Capacity Development Associate: Find out more
Finance/Asset Associate: Find out more
Programme Associate (HIV/AIDS): Find out more

Health Coordinator: Merlin
Deadline: 16 January 2012

Responsible to: Country Director
Working with: Field Staff, Country Management Team

General Responsibilities
-Manage all programme operations, review management systems and make appropriate improvements including remote management
-Ensure the qualitative implementation of Merlin health programming in line with approved program proposals, budgets and relevant MoH policies, protocols and guidelines
-Develop a monitoring and evaluation plan for the life time of each health project funded
-Ensure appropriate technical support, quality assurance of the programs and actively guide the physical implementation and on-going monitoring of the programmes
-Conduct regular visits to the field to contribute to continuous monitoring, evaluation and review of the programmes implementation
-Asses, analyze capacities and recommend potential local NGOs/CBOs who are working in the same geographical locations whom Merlin and MoHCW could potentially partner with for added value in project implementation
-Attend meetings and coordinate with MoHCW, local authorities, other NGOs/CBOs in the project areas, as requested by and under the supervision of the CD
-Liase with the MoHCW and other partners for program reference materials
-Ensure that relevant documents and information are available for the CD and CMT for the smooth running of the projects
-Ensure that activities related to support of the primary health care system are implemented together with the MoHCW district health teams
-Provide regular programme updates and relevant health issues updates occurring in the operational areas, on a weekly basis
-Ensure use of established reporting formats for data collection, and contribute to analysis and reporting as requested by CD (ex. complete 3W reports for Health cluster and draft monthly ‘Health and Policy reports and monthly sitreps)
-Coordinate data collection, compilation and documentation on all project activities, together with programs and data entry clerk
-Actively participate in country strategic planning and proposal development.

Qualifications, experience and competences
-Medically qualified (doctor, clinical officer or senior nurse) with Masters in Public Health, and a minimum of 3 years strong post qualification practical experience
-Experience in public health programming development and innovation
-Strong communication skills, with excellent written and spoken English
-Experience of proactively identifying and addressing issues, and finding solutions
-Confident and proficient in the use of MS Office and excel
-Experience in liaising with MoHCW, other I/NGOs and government officials

To apply for this position: Please email you application letter and CV to vacancy.merlin.zw [at] gmail [dot] com or download an application form from our website www.merlin.org.uk

Completed forms should be emailed to vacancy.merlin.zw [at] gmail [dot] com

This position is only open to Zimbabwean nationals. Only short-listed applicants will be contacted.

M&E Officer: HWA-Zimbabwe
Deadline: 16 January 2012

HWA-Zimbabwe has been implementing humanitarian relief and long-term development projects in Zimbabwe for 12 years. The objectives of the trust are to promote social, economic, democratic and ecological development, alleviate destitution, poverty and hunger and to create livelihood opportunities in order to improve food security.

We respect the culture, history, structures, traditions and customs of the communities and countries where we are active. We provide help for all people regardless of their heritage, gender or religion. The planning and realization of our projects always take place in conjunction with our local partners. HWA-Zimbabwe is a dynamic and innovative organization that believes in mobilizing local potentials and local knowledge.

Female candidates are particularly encouraged to apply. This is a local position.

Starting Date: Mid-January 2012 Duration: 3 months contract with possibility of extension

Scope of Services

Assist in all project related activities (implementation as well as administration) such as:
-Monitor current projects (data collection, data entry, data analysis, etc.)
-Establish M&E Frameworks, baseline studies, mid-term and final evaluations
-Provide regular reports on the project activity implementation status against the project goals and objectives to the director
-Ensure collection of relevant and appropriate data which is needed for an effective M&E system
-Generate project related research data / lessons learned to inform future programming
-Assist in preparing new project proposals
-Coach and train partner staff and field officers on M&E related issues

Overall Requirements
-University degree in management or relevant discipline from a recognized institution
-Minimum of 3 years proven experience in a similar position
-Experience in M&E of development projects, preferably in the sector of pro-poor economic growth
-Project Management skills in development aid and humanitarian projects
-Analytical and report writing skills
-Ability to work independently and part of a team
-Excellent communication skills and interpersonal relations
-Willingness to travel to the field and possession of Drivers License
-Prior USAID and EC program management experience is a plus
-Must be a good organizer, pro-active and dynamic with the right portion of common sense

Please send CV, Motivational Letter, Salary History and Three References to Head of Mission at silvia.weninger [at] drei [dot] at

Programme Coordinator: Farm Community Trust of Zimbabwe
Deadline: 17 January 2012

Job Purpose: The Programme Coordinator will be responsible for the improvement of the welfare of children in the Chiendambuya district through rights based approaches to community development.

Key Duties and Responsibilities
-Implementing the National Action Plan for Orphans and Vulnerable Children including the designing, planning and monitoring of activities and interventions that address the vulnerability of children in Chiendambuya District.
-Produce monthly budgets and operational plans
-Monitor implementation of the programme
-Produce and timeously submit monthly and quarterly reports
-Coordinate reporting and data collection from the Field
-Network with partners, local leaders, churches, and government line ministries at ground level on all matters related to the programme being implemented
-Identifying prospective programming opportunities and developing appropriate concept notes and proposals.
-Lobbying and advocacy on service delivery to duty-bearers
-Responding to emergencies such as Malaria outbreaks, Cholera, etc
-Identify training needs and provide necessary advice and training to Field staff.

Person Specification
-Degree in Social Work with a special focus on children or equivalent
-Qualification in Project Management and Community Development highly preferred
-An understanding of rights based approaches to programme implementation
-Experience in project coordination and logistics planning
-Two or more years experience in Community development work at senior level
-Demonstrated passion in empowering children in rural vulnerable communities
-Ability to communicate effectively via email,telephone,skype and other mediums
-Extensive computer experience using software such as Microsoft word, Microsoft excel,SPSS e.t.c
-Excellent interpersonal and communication skills, ability to build networks and foster relationships

Applications should be submitted to:
The Human Resources and Administration Officer
Farm Community Trust of Zimbabwe
9A William Gale Close
Marlborough

Or email matenda [at] fctz [dot] org [dot] zw

Administrative Assistant: Youth Empowerment and Transformation Trust (YETT)
Deadline: 19 January 2012

The Youth Empowerment and Transformation Trust (YETT) is youth networking organisation committed to the full participation of young people in sustainable development through advocacy and capacity building of youth organisations in Zimbabwe. A one-year fixed term post for an Administrative Assistant has arisen within YETT commencing January 2012. The Administrative Assistant reports to the Finance and Administration Manager for guidance and is responsible for performing procurement and administrative tasks and services ensuring timeliness, accuracy and compliance with YETT policies, processes and procedures and promotes a client, quality and results oriented approach.

Job Description
-Coordinate and/or manage all administrative services for events and workshops including arranging venue, travel and hotel reservations.
-Arrange purchase and ensure timely and appropriate distribution of office equipment and supplies.
-Keep adequate records to ensure proper asset management.
-Preparation of inventory reports. Implementation of inventory and physical verification check-up in the office and projects.
-Execute all necessary arrangements to ensure efficient office space allocation and all related services.
-Arrange and oversee building maintenance, movement and repair of furniture and other assets. Collect, verify and organize information required for formulation of project work plans and budgets.
-Presentation of information for audit of projects. Reviews procurement request and initiate procurement procedures, administer receipt of quotations, bids or proposals ensuring accuracy of information/data and compliance with YETT policies and procedures.
-Prepare purchase orders and contracts in and outside YETT and ensure timely dispatched of purchase orders.
-Acquiring goods and services.
-Process payment of contracts and agreements with the required support documentation and certifications.
-Screen and appropriately route telephone calls within the office. Receive and direct visitors to the office to the appropriate persons.
-Receive and route incoming mail and maintain log of incoming and outgoing mail file as appropriate.

Educational Qualifications and Experience
-Secondary education. Certificate, Diploma in administration and/or procurement desirable. University Degree in Business or Public Administration would be desirable, but it is not a requirement.
-Minimum of 3 years of experience in administration is required.
-Experience in the usage of computers and office software packages (MS Word, Excel, etc.) and advance knowledge of spreadsheet and database packages, experience in handling of web based management systems. YETT reserves the right to select one or more candidates from this vacancy announcement.

If you have experience of working in a similar capacity, meet the above profile, send your application and CV with three traceable referees to yetrecruitment [at] gmail [dot] com

Only short listed candidates will be contacted.

Administrative Associate: United Nations Development Programme (UNDP)
Deadline: 25 January 2012

Location: Harare
Type of Contract: FTA Local Post
Level: GS-7
Languages Required: English
Starting Date: 01-Feb-2012
Duration of Initial Contract: 1 year

Under the overall guidance and supervision of the Deputy Country Director – Operations and in collaboration with Operations Manager, the Administrative Associate provides the overall administration and execution of varied and inter-related operational and logistical activities in the Country Office (CO), ensuring high quality and accuracy of work. The Administrative Associate promotes a client, quality and results-oriented approach. The Administrative Associate works in close collaboration with the Operations, Programme and Projects staff in the CO and other UN agencies staff to exchange information and ensure consistent service delivery. For more information please click here

It is the New Year and I believe most of you celebrated the New Year with a party with your loved ones. It is time to realign your energy. Start the new year by loving yourself because you cannot love others if you don’t start by loving yourself.  Learn to forgive others though sometimes it is difficult to let go of grudges. Sometimes you have to let go off the past and renew your vision. If you were not talking to your neighbour in the previous year because his dog gave you sleepless nights its time to surprise him with a morning greeting. Make your health your first priority every morning because if you fall sick all your plans for the year will fail.

Set your New Year resolutions correctly and be positive, don’t be like me … I have already broken one my New Year resolutions! Choose to be a leader in 2012 and not to always be in the background. If the elections being planned in this country are going to be held this year surprise people by throwing in your name to be voted for, be it for council, parliament or presidential elections. Create an opportunity for yourself in 2012 when others are complaining of economic down turns – who knows maybe you may hit the jackpot!

Have hope that everything will be fine in 2012 and make your dreams come alive.

Happy New Year!