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.

Corporate and Natural Resources Officer: Acton Aid
Deadline: 6 July 2012

Location: Johannesburg, South Africa or Nairobi, Kenya
Duration: 3 years Fixed Term Contract – Local terms and Conditions of Employment

The Corporate and Natural Resources Officer promotes coherence between local, national and international work on the role of corporations in control of natural resources.  The role has a global remit, but with special emphasis on Fair, Green & Global (FGG) project in Southern & Eastern Africa (Kenya, Zambia, Zimbabwe, South Africa), working to improve local control of land, water, and other resources in the face of increasing control being granted to private companies.

Formally you will have a relevant degree/Masters or equivalent experience coupled with at least 5 years experience working in an international agency / across countries on natural resources and corporate accountability.  This is underpinned by a comprehensive understanding of rights-based programme practice and the ability to link this work to national and international influencing work.

The ideal candidate can be described as energetic, enthusiastic and interested in learning within a political, changing and diverse work environment with strong networking/relationship-building skills- ability to anticipate, coordinate and facilitate activities with colleagues.

You will have excellent problem-solving skills and resourcefulness.  A high capacity for work output in order to meet tight deadlines and multiple priorities are essential.  Strong verbal and written communication skills in English (additionally French and Portuguese will be an advantage) are crucial, especially the ability to inform and engage through written communication

On a personal level you will have a strong commitment to develop, promote and practice AAI’s vision, mission, values, and strategy.

Application procedures: Further information on this position can be obtained from our website at www.actionaid.org/jobs

Applications should be sent with your CV, motivation cover letter and two names of your nominated referees to: programmes.jhb [at] actionaid [dot] org

Please clearly indicate which position you are applying for.

Although all applications will be considered on their individual merit, suitably qualified women are especially encouraged to apply.

Assistant PRIZE Program Coordinator (Bulawayo): Catholic Relief Services (CRS)
Deadline: 6 July 2012

The Assistant PRIZE Program Coordinator (APC) supervises all program activities and CRS technical leads for Food for Assets, Logistics, VS&L/Agribusiness and Agriculture under the PRIZE Consortium.  S/he is responsible for the successful implementation of PRIZE programming in the field.

Qualifications & Experience
-Masters Degree or equivalent experience in Economic Development, Social Sciences, International Relations or other relevant field required.
-Minimum 3 years of progressive management responsibility in developing countries.
-Prior practical management experience of USAID funding and exceptional knowledge of USG and Title II policies and procedures required.
-Prior working experience in managing complex emergencies desired.
-Proven leadership and inter-personal skills and ability to build and motivate diverse and talented teams; Able to mentor, supervise, and train staff.
-Prior experience working with budgets desired.
-Excellent writing and communication skills in both English and the appropriate local language.
-Able to travel to the PRIZE operational areas a minimum of 30% of time.
-Demonstrated strengths in relationship management; able to work with diverse groups of people in multicultural, team-oriented environment

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 “Assistant PRIZE Program Coordinator”.

Only short-listed candidates will be contacted.  Please submit to: The Country Representative, 95 Park Lane, Harare or 33A Duncan Road Suburbs Bulawayo or P.O. Box CY 1111, Causeway, Harare, or to taurai.musakaruka [at] crs [dot] org

Logistics and Procurement Officer: Cordaid
Deadline: 6 July 2012

Duty station: Harare
Reporting to: Finance and Administration Manager

The Ministry of Health and Child Welfare (MoHCW) and the World Bank have appointed an international NGO, Cordaid, to manage the Results Based Financing (RBF) program, in close partnership with the MoHCW and the World Bank. Cordaid has established an office in Harare that will roll-out the program in close collaboration with the MOHCW. Cordaid is recruiting suitably qualified Logistics and Procurement Officer.

Position in the Organization: The Logistics and Procurement Officer will be responsible for the Logistics Assistant and the Driver, at the same time reporting directly to the Finance and Administration Manager.

Objective of the posting: The Logistics and Procurement Officer will be responsible for ensuring that all procurement and logistics activities for Cordaid Zimbabwe are done in compliance with the set standards and procedures.

Key responsibilities and accountabilities
-Manage the routine care and maintenance of the vehicle fleet and keeping records of vehicle documents
-Ensure that the daily driver’s schedule for Cordaid Harare is available and updated
-Give logistical support to the NPA office and the programmes department in the monthly/ quarterly plans incl. Field Visits
-Maintain and update an accurate database with all computer licenses and expiry dates, and be the focal point with IT service providers
-Maintain and update the assets list on a monthly basis and organize quarterly assets counts
-Manage the approved asset movement, monitor and track and update the records accordingly
-Follow-up and oversee that the assets inventory for the LPU Offices are accurate and up-to-date
-Responsible for procurement according to the Procurement Plan and along the World Bank procurement guidelines
-Ensure that the procurement and logistics documentation is complete and updated accordingly
-Ensure compliance with donor and audit requirements
-Advice the Management on all issues related to procurement and logistics, and ensures transparency and accountability in all activities
-Develop a system of tracking procurement and logistics requests and generate weekly status reports
-Evaluate and monitor the organization’s procurement processes and ensure that they are in line with the Cordaid and World Bank Procurement Standards
-Improve, implement and monitor the Logistics Manuals and the Security Manual
-Monitor and supervise the driver and the Logistics Assistant and ensure that the employee duties are carried out effectively and efficiently
-Research market information on different supplies and maintain accurate and up-to-date supplier database for supplies
-Develop, maintain and continually update the pre-approved vendors’ database
-Provide timely technical advice, guidance to and support to the LPU offices as well as support their capacity building efforts
-Prepare accurate and timely reports and to carry out any other relevant duty as requested by the Finance and Administration Manager

Qualifications and competencies
-A minimum of a bachelor’s degree in logistics and procurement and/or any other related qualifications
-At least 5 years experience in a similar position at an NGO and at least 2 years proven experience in management level and administration incl. IT
-Proven experience in fleet management with basic knowledge of vehicle engineering
-Computer literate and proficiency in Micro-Soft Office packages
-Excellent knowledge and experience of procurement guidelines of large institutional donors, experience with World Bank procurement guidelines will be an added advantage
-Valid and Clean drivers licence

Contract duration: one year (probation period three months) with the intention to extend for a longer period subject to performance and continuation of the program

Applications including an application letter, extensive CV in English and the contact details of at least three professional references (give also their email addresses), should be forwarded to hr.Zimbabwe [at] cordaid [dot] net

Mention the vacancy number in subject line: LPO001 – Logistics and Procurement Officer

For hand delivery forward to the attention of the Human Resources Officer, 21 Argyle Road, Avondale, Harare. Indicate the vacancy reference number on the sealed envelope.

A written test will constitute part of the interview process.

Only the short listed candidates will be contacted.

Centre Lawyer: Legal Resources Foundation (LRF)
Deadline: 15 July 2012

The Legal Resources Foundation a local human rights and legal services NGO invites applications from suitably qualified and experienced persons for the post of Centre Lawyer that has arisen in Bulawayo.

Duties and responsibilities
-Providing Legal Assistance and Legal Aid
-Public Interest and Test Litigation
-Legal Education
-Supervision of paralegals
-Monitoring and evaluation
-Report writing

Qualifications and experience
-LLB degree from any recognized university
-Applicants must be registered legal practitioners with at least two years working experience
-Fluent in English and local languages especially Ndebele

Other Competencies
-Applicants must be self-motivated and have a demonstrable ability to lead a team and to work with minimal supervision
-Must have passion for fairness and justice
-Must be able to relate to the poor and marginalised

Package
The position carries a competitive package, which will be disclosed to successful applicants.

Applications with full contact details, accompanied by comprehensive curriculum vitae, and clearly marked “Centre Lawyer Bulawayo” should be sent to:

The Centre Director
P O Box 1131
BULAWAYO

Or they can be emailed to: blpc [at] lrf [dot] co [dot] zw

Applications received after the deadline will not be considered.

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.

Financial Analyst: US Embassy
Deadline: 5 July 2012

Salary: US$42,311 – US$61,351 salary grade range

The United States Agency for International Development (USAID)/Zimbabwe is seeking applications from qualified persons to fill the position of Financial Analyst. As a Financial Analyst, the incumbent independently performs the full range of financial analysis functions for the mission. The incumbent provides financial and accounting expertise and advice for all projects in the portfolio, conducts the assessment of host country capacity and accounting/internal control systems and verifies host country contributions. The incumbent is responsible for ensuring that the accounting, budgeting, and financial analysis functions are operating effectively and efficiently and in accordance with USAID directives, regulations and established procedures. Daily responsibilities include the resolution of unique accounting problems stemming from the project portfolio covering at least three Development Objectives that currently include multiple Agency initiatives (Global Health, Malaria, HIV/AIDs, and Feed the Future). For more information and to apply please click here

Global Fund Programme Assistant; HIV/AIDS: UNDP
Deadline: 6 July 2012

UNDP is a key partner to the Global Fund to Fight HIV/AIDS, Tuberculosis and Malaria (GFATM) and is the UN agency assuming the role of Principal Recipient of GFATM grants in Zimbabwe. In its role as Principal Recipient, UNDP ensures quality financial management, timely procurement of supplies, and efficient monitoring and service delivery. UNDP’s management role consists in implementing grants, ensuring financial accountability, and training of national and international counterparts on programme management and financial accountability. For the implementation of the Global Fund programme, UNDP Zimbabwe has established a Programme Management Unit (PMU) that will coordinate the implementation of the projects and provide general guidance of Global Fund rules and procedures to all Sub Recipients participating in the implementation of the projects. Under the guidance and direct supervision of the Programme Officer, the Programme Assistant supports the planning and management and implementation of the project and promotes a client-oriented approach consistent with UNDP rules and regulations. For more information and to apply online please click here

Global Fund Programme Assistant; Malaria: UNDP
Deadline: 6 July 2012

UNDP is a key partner to the Global Fund to Fight HIV/AIDS, Tuberculosis and Malaria (GFATM) and is the UN agency assuming the role of Principal Recipient of GFATM grants in Zimbabwe. In its role as Principal Recipient, UNDP ensures quality financial management, timely procurement of supplies, and efficient monitoring and service delivery. UNDP’s management role consists in implementing grants, ensuring financial accountability, and training of national and international counterparts on programme management and financial accountability. For the implementation of the Global Fund programme, UNDP Zimbabwe has established a Programme Management Unit (PMU) that will coordinate the implementation of the projects and provide general guidance of Global Fund rules and procedures to all Sub Recipients participating in the implementation of the projects. Under the guidance and direct supervision of the Programme Officer, the Programme Assistant supports the planning and management and implementation of the project and promotes a client-oriented approach consistent with UNDP rules and regulations. For more information and to apply online please click here

Deputy Director: SAfAIDS
Deadline: 6 July 2012

Southern Africa HIV and AIDS Information Dissemination Service (SAfAIDS, www.safaids.net) is a regional NGO working in 10 countries in southern Africa. SAfAIDS mission is to promote effective and ethical development responses to sexual reproductive health and rights, HIV and TB through communication for social mobilisation, knowledge management, capacity building, policy advocacy and research.

SAfAIDS is for looking for a Deputy Director, based at its regional office in Harare, Zimbabwe. This post requires an all-rounder, capable of providing high level representation of SAfAIDS regionally and internationally and able to work at both strategic and operational levels.

Requirements
-At least a Master’s Degree in Social Sciences, Health sciences, Health Education or other relevant field
-A minimum of 7 years of professional experience in a senior leadership position
-Thorough knowledge of HIV policy, gender, SRH and MCH issues in southern Africa
-Ability to provide high-level technical support in conceptualization, design, and implementation of various programmes
-Proven track record in resource mobilization, including proposal development and budgeting
-Ability to present and network at high level strategic meetings/conferences, deputising for the Executive Director as required
-Highly proficient at establishing strong partnerships across organizations and influencing stakeholders to achieve optimal outcomes
-Experience in dealing with NGO governance issues and demonstrated leadership in partnership building
-Strong report writing skills plus experience in design/content development of training and other materials
-Experience in message design, branding and marketing would be a distinct advantage
-Experience with managing project monitoring and evaluation systems
-Financial literacy and ability to maintain fiscal accountability
-Solid background in ICTs combined with excellent oral and written communication skills
-Ability to manage competing priorities in a rapidly changing environment

SAfAIDS offers the right person an exciting opportunity to make a meaningful contribution to development work 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: The Executive Director, SAfAIDS, 17 Beveridge Road, Avondale Harare, or e-mail application to recruitments [at] safaids [dot] net

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.

Associate Country Director: Oxfam
Deadline: 4 July 2012

Oxfam is a confederation of 14 affiliates located across the world and working in 99 countries. There has been a recent change in the confederation’s architecture, with a move towards single management structures in each country focused on enhancing program impact. In Zimbabwe, the Oxfams are moving ahead with creating this single strategy that is expected to result in an improved Oxfam brand, sustained impact through our work and increased cost-effectiveness through cost sharing and ultimately reducing duplications in our work.

The Associate Country Director (ACD) will work alongside the Country Director, supporting the delivery of the Country Strategy through the Implementing Affiliate’s program. Implementing Affiliates will be accountable through the Managing Affiliate for progress on their part of the Strategy and Operational Plan (as well as day-to-day program and staff management for the Implementing Affiliate).

As a key member of the Country Leadership Team, the ACD will support the development of the Country Strategy, Funding Strategy and Operating Model and will be involved in managing the transition plan to SMS, ensuring implementation, learning and review within the affiliate.

This role requires:
-Senior management experience in leading the development and delivery of development, humanitarian and advocacy program strategies
-Experience in leading and motivating multi-disciplinary teams, a high degree of self awareness and an understanding of how to drive and support excellent team performance and individual development
-Experience managing complex organisational transformation processes and relationships with internal and external multi-cultural stakeholders
-Strong financial and analytical skills and the ability to think strategically, including to think beyond the country program context and act within a regional and global framework

To find out more about this role and to apply online, visit www.oxfam.org.uk/jobs and quote ref: INT5509.

We are committed to ensuring diversity and gender equality within our organization.  Women and under represented groups are encouraged to apply.

3 (Three) Social Workers: Local NGO
Deadline: 4 July 2012

Three vacancies for a post of a Social Worker have arisen in a local NGO to support implementation of a CPF funded project for children in residential care institutions in Harare, Mashonaland East and Manicaland provinces for a 12 month fixed term contract. Reporting to the Project Coordinator, the incumbent will be responsible for supporting the DSS to implement the National Residential Care Standards through planning, implementation and monitoring. The placements will be based in Harare, Mashonaland East and Manicaland provinces.

Qualifications and Requirements
-A Social Work Degree a MUST
-3 years experience working with children either in an NGO environment or with the Department of Social Services
-Previous probation work experience an added advantage
-Must be registered with the Council of Social Work
-A clean class 4 driver’s license a MUST

12 months fixed term contract. Interested candidates should sent their CVs with traceable references to pmpofu [at] cps [dot] org [dot] zw / phineas [at] cps [dot] org [dot] zw

PEPFAR Communications Specialist, FSN-10/FP-5: US Embassy
Deadline: 5 July 2012

Salary: Ordinarily resident (OR) $34 772 p.a. FSN-10/1
Not ordinarily resident (NOR) $48 338 p.a. FP-5/5

The U.S. Embassy in Harare is seeking an individual for the position of PEPFAR Communications Specialist in the Public Affairs Section of the Embassy.

Basic Function Of Position
The PEPFAR Communications Specialist will assist Mission Harare with achieving the public outreach and awareness goals set out in the annual Country Operational Plan and 5-year strategic plan for the U.S. President’s Emergency Plan for Aids Relief (PEPFAR) in Zimbabwe.  S/he will analyze communications needs and proactively promote the PEPFAR program, helping Zimbabweans become more aware of HIV/AIDS assistance provided by the USG. Working in close coordination with the PEPFAR Coordinator, PEPFAR Zimbabwe team and under the direct supervision of the Embassy’s Public Affairs Section, the Specialist will create products and develop programming to increase public awareness about the PEPFAR program and improve interagency PEPFAR communication. General supervision is provided by the Assistant Public Affairs Officer.

A copy of the complete position description listing all duties and responsibilities are available in the Human Resources Office – Telephone 263-4-250593 Ext 4622/4991

Qualifications Required
NOTE:  All applicants are instructed to address each selection criterion detailed below with specific and comprehensive information supporting each criterion. Failure to submit documentary evidence for educational qualifications will be grounds for disqualification.  Foreigners/Non-Zimbabweans must attach work permit documentation in order to be considered for employment by the Embassy.

-Bachelor’s degree in journalism, Public Relations, Communications, Health or related field is required
-Three years experience in print or electronic media is required
-Level IV, (fluent) English speaking and writing ability is required
-Proficiency with computers – Microsoft Word, Excel, social media (Facebook, Twitter, and YouTube) and digital photography is required
-Detailed knowledge of the PEPFAR-Zimbabwe program and objectives, the status of HIV/AIDS in Zimbabwe, U.S. Mission activities for PEPFAR, general public health systems, design and challenges in Zimbabwe is required.

Selection Process
When equally qualified, US Citizen Eligible Family Members (AEFMs) and U.S. Veterans will be given preference.  Therefore, it is essential that the candidate addresses the required qualifications above in the application.

Additional Selection Criteria
1. Management will consider nepotism/conflict of interest, budget, and residency status in determining successful candidacy.
2. Current employees serving a probationary period are not eligible to apply.
3. Current Ordinary Resident employees with an Overall Summary Rating of Needs Improvement or Unsatisfactory on their most recent Employee Performance Report are not eligible to apply.
4. Currently employed US Citizen EFMs who hold a FMA are ineligible to apply for advertised positions within the first 90 calendar days of their employment.
5. Currently employed NORs hired under a Personal Services Agreement (PSA) are ineligible to apply for advertised positions within the first 90 calendar days of their employment, unless currently hired into a position with a When Actually Employed (WAE) work schedule.

To Apply

Interested applicants for this position must submit the following or the application will not be considered:

1. Universal Application for Employment (UAE) as Locally Employed Staff or Family Member (DS-174); or Embassy Harare Application Form.
2. A current resume or curriculum vitae that provides the same information found on the UAE; or
3. A combination of both; i.e. Section 1-24 of the UAE along with a listing of the applicants work experience attached as a separate sheet; plus
4. Candidates who claim U.S. Veterans preference must provide a copy of their Form DD-214 with their application. Candidates who claim conditional U.S. Veterans preference must submit documentation confirming eligibility for a conditional preference in hiring with their application.
5. Any other documentation (e.g., essays, certificates, awards, copies of degrees earned) that addresses the qualification requirements of the position as listed above.

Submit Application To:

American Embassy
Human Resources Office
P O Box 3340, Harare
Email: hararerecruit [at] state [dot] gov

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.

Programs Manager: Local NGO
Deadline: 28 June 2012

We are looking to invite interested candidates to apply to fill the post of Programs Manager, which falls vacant soon. This is a senior management position in the organisation, and the incumbent should have a post graduate qualification in Public Health, a proven track record to lead and manage teams, and be conversant in project planning, implementation and evaluation. The incumbent should also be well versed with report writing. The organisation has a very strong Christian ethos, which the incumbent should be aware of and be prepared to fully embrace. If you are interested, please send your current curriculum vitae to: wadziemnax [at] gmail [dot] com

Finance and Administration Officer: Local NGO
Deadline: 29 June 2012

A local NGO would like to fill a vacancy of Finance and Administration Officer that has arisen in the organisation.

Main Responsibilities:
-Supervising the operations of the finance and administration unit
-Preparing periodic Financial Reports for management, donors and audits
-Managing the organization’s financial resources and ensuring effective budget control
-Administering and controlling expenditure in liaison with Management within the approved budgets
-Preparing and administering payroll

Minimum Requirements:
-A university degree in Accounting, CIS, CIMA, ACCA or equivalent
-At least 3 years working experiences in a relevant position
-Good communication and computer skills-Ms Excel
-Sound knowledge of financial operating packages – Pastel
-Experience in the management of financial systems and budgets, financial reporting, financial data analysis, auditing and providing financial advice

How to Apply: Please send your application letter, CV and certificates to finance2012officer [at] gmail [dot] com Only applications with traceable references from relevant organisations will be considered.

Regional Director, Southern Africa: AMREF
Deadline: 29 June 2012

AMREF is the largest health development non-governmental organization based in Africa. Working with and through African communities, health systems and government, AMREF aims to close the gap that prevents people from accessing their basic right to health. With headquarters in Kenya, AMREF has programmes in Ethiopia, Uganda, Somalia, South Sudan, Kenya, Tanzania, South Africa and West Africa. Employing over 800 staff and with an annual operating budget of approximately $70 million, AMREF is a knowledge resource for donors and partners. For more information visit our website www.amref.org

AMREF is recruiting for Regional Director, Southern Africa to provide leadership and strategic direction to the Southern African Regional programme. The incumbent will be in charge of the performance and programme growth. S/he will ensure that adequate monitoring, evaluation and accountability mechanisms are in place. The position is key and part of AMREF’s senior management team, reporting to the Director General with a critical role to play in the accomplishment of AMREF’s mission and strategy.

Please visit the AMREF website www.amref.org to view job specifications and application process.

If you are looking for growth and new challenges and have a passion for improving health of disadvantaged communities in Africa, you are welcome to join us. Complete the online application form attaching your CV. We encourage interested candidates to submit their applications by Friday 29th June 2012 although the search will remain open until the position is filled.

AMREF is an equal opportunity employer and has a non-smoking environment policy.

Two (2) vacancies: GIZ
Deadline: 2 July 2012

Location: SADC Secretariat, Gaborone, Botswana

1. Programme Officer Natural Resources (Ref code: SADC/NR)
2. Programme Officer Climate Change and Biodiversity (Ref code: SADC/CCB)

To support the implementation of the SADC/GIZ project on “Transboundary Use and Protection of Natural Resources.” GIZ is a German federal enterprise assisting the German Government in achieving its objectives in the field of international cooperation for sustainable development. The project contributes to the better implementation of regional strategies and programmes in the Member States, and thus to the improvement of the social and economic situation of the people living in and around the forests and protected areas. At regional level the project supports the SADC Secretariat, especially the Environment and Natural Resources Unit of the Directorate of Food, Agriculture and Natural Resources (FANR), as well as other regional organisations; at the sub-regional level it supports various Transfontrier Conservation Areas (TFCAs) in the SADC region. The successful applicants will be contracted by GIZ and will work directly with the SADC Senior Programme Officer (SPO) Natural resources and the SADC SPO Environment and Sustainable development, respectively.

Duration of contract: 1 September 2012 – 31 August 2013 with potential extension for two years

Job descriptions: Full job description van be obtained electronically from Dr Wibke Thies: wibke.thies [at] giz [dot] de

Applications with a one page covering letter, comprehensive curriculum vitae, together with the names, addresses, email addresses and telephone of three referees should be sent by email to: Dr Wibke Thies: wibke.thies [at] giz [dot] de

Please use the reference code indicated for each position when sending your application. CVs of applicants who have not requested the Job Description will not be considered.

Receipt of applications sent by email shall be acknowledged promptly. GIZ is committed to diversity and inclusion within its workforce, and encourages qualified female and male candidates from the SADC region with all religious and ethnic backgrounds, including persons living with disabilities, to apply to become a part of our organization.

Newsday today reported that some children haven fallen ill after getting vaccinations under the just ended immunization week for children under 5 years. The children received vaccinations for measles and polio and in addition they received vitamin A supplements. In 2009 The Standard also reported that vaccinated children fell ill under such an immunization programme.

Being a parent or a guardian you tend to panic when you learn of such reports or worse still when you experience this actually happening to your child. A child falling ill after being immunized is very frightening and it calls for the Ministry of Health to carry out investigations.

From my personal experience in the first few months I had to take my son for shots, I was very worried and would dread taking him. I would procrastinate but eventually I would find myself at the clinic. And after a few days those side effects, like fever would creep in. As a first time mom it took time for me to learn and really appreciate how immunization and vaccinations work. I would therefore, like to share a few insightful and educative sites with parents and guardians out there.

On the UNICEF website they describe how immunization works:

“Immunization works by tricking the body into believing it is experiencing a full-scale invasion by an infectious agent so that the immune system can fortify its defenses. During vaccination, a harmless version of a germ is introduced to the body and the immune system responds by producing antibodies to attack the intruder. Thereafter, a memory of this “invasion” remains so that the immune system can quickly recognize and neutralize disease-causing agents when they appear.”

Thus a child is likely to fall ill while the vaccine is at work. It is also asserted that some vaccines can even cause symptoms which seem to be very similar to the symptoms of the disease they are supposed to prevent. To get more understanding of how vaccinations are made and how they work in the body you can click on these links below.

How vaccines Prevent Disease – Centre for Disease Control and Prevention
How do vaccines work – Healthy Children.org
And to understand more on illnesses that occur after getting shots click here

Don’t forget that even adults need to get shots once in a long while. A tetanus booster is required periodically throughout life!

It’s a big congratulations to Star FM for making it into Zimbabwean history for being the first private radio station after 32 years of independence. But I still feel nothing goes further than passing a congratulatory message at this stage because the station seems to be an extension of the existing state owned broadcaster. The radio station, which was officially launched yesterday, is owned by Zimpapers, which is state run. Initially the radio station got the license under the name Zimbabwe Talk Radio and no explanations have been given on the change of name.

Nhalnhla Ngwenya who heads Misa-Zimbabwe said, “So while it is good for Zimbabwe that we now have another player in the broadcasting industry, we doubt that its content will translate to an alternative platform form of communication. It would have been good if new player was going to bring diversity.”