The consultancy forms part of the Realisation of the African Disability Protocol (RAD-P) Project, which promotes the rights, inclusion and meaningful participation of persons with disabilities in Zimbabwe through advocacy, policy engagement, awareness raising and institutional strengthening of OPDs.
The assignment will run for 12 days , comprising five days of training preparation, four days of in-person training and three days for post-training evaluation.
Job Summary
- Employer: Sightsavers
- Job Type: Contract
- Location: Harare, Zimbabwe
- Category: Training and Development
- Salary: To be negotiated
- Closing Date: 2026-10-11
Key Responsibilities
- Reviewing the concept note and other relevant project documents.
- Developing an inception report outlining the understanding of the assignment, methodology, workplan and approach.
- Developing training materials, presentations, handouts, practical exercises and case studies.
- Developing pre- and post-training assessment tools.
- Ensuring all training materials are accessible to persons with different disabilities.
- Facilitating the four-day training programme.
- Analysing participant evaluation results and learning assessments.
- Preparing a comprehensive training report.
Requirements
- The successful consultant should possess relevant professional experience or a Master’s degree or higher in Communications, Journalism, Media Studies, Public Relations, Development Studies, Information Technology, Disability Studies or a related field.
- Candidates should have extensive experience in strategic communications, digital advocacy, media engagement, website development or related fields, as well as experience facilitating capacity-building workshops for civil society organisations, NGOs or OPDs.
- Applicants should demonstrate: Strong knowledge of disability inclusion and accessible communication practices.
- Practical experience with website development platforms such as WordPress, Google Sites and Wix.
- Knowledge of social media management, digital campaigns and content creation.
- Familiarity with Zimbabwe’s digital governance, media and data protection frameworks.
- Experience in the ethical application of AI tools for communication and advocacy.
- Excellent facilitation, communication and report-writing skills.
Salary
To be negotiated
How to Apply
About the Company
Sightsavers is an international non-governmental organisation that works with partners in developing countries to treat and prevent avoidable blindness, and promote equality for people with visual impairments and other disabilities. It is based in Haywards Heath in the United Kingdom, with branches in Sweden, Norway, India, Italy, Republic of Ireland, the United Arab Emirates, and the US.
Frequently Asked Questions
What qualifications or certifications do I need to become a Media Training Consultant in Zimbabwe?
Most employers require a degree in Journalism, Mass Communication, Public Relations, or a related field. Professional certifications in digital advocacy, strategic communications, or training facilitation from recognized institutions like ZIMDEF or regional bodies strengthen your profile. Practical experience in media, NGOs, or advocacy campaigns is often valued more than formal credentials alone.
What are the typical day-to-day responsibilities of a Media Training Consultant?
You will design and deliver training modules on digital advocacy, social media strategy, and message framing for civil society organizations and activists. Daily tasks include conducting needs assessments, developing training materials, facilitating workshops, and mentoring participants on campaign tactics. You may also evaluate training impact and advise organizations on crisis communication strategies.
How does work culture differ for consultants compared to permanent staff in Zimbabwean NGOs?
Consultants typically work on fixed-term contracts with defined deliverables rather than fixed hours, requiring strong self-management and flexibility. You are expected to meet deadlines independently with less hand-holding, but this also means limited access to internal staff benefits like pension schemes. Building trust quickly and adapting to organizational hierarchies remains essential in Zimbabwe's relationship-driven professional environment.
What career progression paths exist for Media Training Consultants in Zimbabwe?
Experienced consultants often advance to Senior Advisor or Country Director roles within international NGOs, or transition into full-time advocacy leadership positions. Others build independent consultancy firms serving multiple development organizations across Southern Africa. Specializing in emerging areas like AI-driven advocacy or data storytelling can differentiate you in a competitive market.
What benefits should I negotiate as a contract-based Media Training Consultant?
Since contract roles rarely include standard benefits, negotiate for professional development allowances, transport reimbursement for field travel, and payment terms that account for Zimbabwe's currency volatility. Request clarity on tax withholding responsibilities and consider securing private medical cover through organizations like CIMAS or Premier Service Medical Aid Society. Always confirm contract duration and renewal conditions in writing before signing.
How do I apply effectively for consultancy roles with international NGOs like Sightsavers in Zimbabwe?
Tailor your application to highlight measurable training outcomes and digital campaign results from previous Zimbabwean or regional contexts. Network actively through platforms like Hivos, PACT Zimbabwe, or communications professional associations, as many consultancy opportunities are shared through referrals. Submit concise proposals demonstrating understanding of local disability rights or inclusive advocacy issues, as thematic expertise increasingly distinguishes successful candidates.
