Job Summary
- Type: full-time
- Location: Harare
- Category: Research Jobs
- Closing Date: 2026-08-10
Key Responsibilities
- Reviewing existing legal frameworks, and policies related to maternal health and gender equality
- Drafting model legal provisions that address the following key areas:
- Definition and inclusion of maternal health services as essential health benefits covered under the scheme.
- Gender-sensitive language and provisions that recognize women’s health rights, including maternal health services.
- Measures to ensure universal accessibility of safe and modern maternal health services by all women especially those in underserved areas.
- Provisions to eliminate barriers to access for marginalized groups such as rural women, adolescents, women with disabilities, and low-income populations.
- Mechanisms for monitoring, accountability, and enforcement of gender-sensitive and affordable health services, including maternal health provisions
- Integration of reproductive rights and informed consent principles
- Ensuring the model law aligns with best standards provided in the Constitution, Maputo Protocol, Convention on the Elimination of All Forms of Discrimination Against Women (CEDAW), the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) and other blue prints on medical services provision.
Requirements
- Proven experience in legal drafting, preferably in health law, gender equality, or human rights
- Familiarity with national health policy and legal frameworks related to maternal health
- Ability to translate policy objectives into clear, enforceable legal provisions
- Experience working with women’s rights organizations or in gender-sensitive legal reforms is an advantage
How to Apply
About the Company
Women and Law in Southern Africa (WLSA) Zimbabwe is a national chapter dedicated to advancing women's human rights and promoting gender equality within the country's legal framework. Operating across Zimbabwe, it conducts crucial research into the legal status of women, identifying gaps and challenges hindering their full participation in society. The organisation actively advocates for law reform, seeking to influence policy and legislation to better protect women's rights and ensure their access to justice. WLSA Zimbabwe also provides vital legal aid and public education, empowering women with knowledge of their rights and offering support in navigating the legal system. Its work directly contributes to fostering a more equitable society for women throughout Zimbabwe.
Empowering Zimbabwean women through law, research, and human rights advocacy.
Frequently Asked Questions
What academic qualifications and professional experience are typically required for a consultancy role focused on developing model laws for health insurance in Zimbabwe?
For such a role, a Master's degree in Law, Public Health, Economics, or a related field is often expected, alongside a strong background in legal research or policy development. Demonstrable experience in health policy, social security, or legislative drafting within a Zimbabwean context is crucial.
What are the common day-to-day responsibilities for a consultant working on a project to develop a model law for a national health insurance scheme?
Daily tasks typically involve extensive legal and policy research, conducting stakeholder consultations with government bodies and civil society, and drafting legal texts and policy briefs. You would also be expected to present findings and recommendations to various audiences.
Given this is a consultancy with WLSA in Zimbabwe, what are the local work culture expectations regarding collaboration, deadlines, and stakeholder engagement?
The Zimbabwean work culture highly values respect, networking, and consensus-building, especially when engaging with diverse stakeholders including government and community groups. Consultants are expected to be proactive, adaptable to local nuances, and adhere strictly to agreed timelines.
What kind of career progression or growth paths can one realistically expect after completing a significant consultancy project like developing a model law in Zimbabwe?
Completing such a project can significantly enhance your profile as an expert in health law and policy, leading to future consultancy opportunities with local and international organizations. It can open doors to roles in policy advocacy, legal reform, or specialized research within NGOs, government, or academia.
What is the typical application process for such a consultancy in Zimbabwe, and what key aspects do employers like WLSA look for in candidates?
The application usually involves submitting a detailed CV, a cover letter outlining your expertise for the specific project, and often a technical proposal or an outline of your proposed methodology. Employers seek candidates with proven research and drafting skills, a strong understanding of the Zimbabwean legal and health landscape, and excellent communication abilities.
What are the typical benefits offered for a short-term consultancy role like this in Zimbabwe, such as leave, medical aid, or pension?
Consultancy roles are generally compensated as a fixed project fee or daily rate, rather than through traditional employee benefits like medical aid or pension contributions. Any leave or time off is usually negotiated as part of the overall project timeline and fee structure.