Applications are open for the 2027 CFJ Fellowship , offering an opportunity for early-career African women lawyers to join a growing network of legal advocates advancing gender justice across Africa.
The Fellowship is a paid, full-time, one-year work placement running from January to December 2027 . Fellows will be placed with a human rights organization, university legal aid clinic or government legal institution in Kenya, Malawi, The Gambia or South Africa.
The Fellowship focuses on ending violence against women and children through legal representation and advice, strategic litigation and the innovative use of technology.
Job Summary
- Employer: cfj
- Job Type: Full-time
- Location: Harare, Zimbabwe
- Category: Legal
- Salary: competitive gross annual salary
- Closing Date: 2026-10-20
Key Responsibilities
- Support the legal work of their host organizations, which may include direct legal assistance, research, representation, drafting and advocacy.
- Identify and support at least one strategic litigation case with CFJ designed to advance the rights of women and children in national or regional courts or an international court or body.
- Carry out at least two outreach activities for students focused on the rights of women and children.
- Participate in Fellowship Programme activities, including mentoring, training and networking opportunities.
- Be based in the home country where their host organization is located and have the right to work there.
Requirements
- A law degree from a recognized academic institution.
- A Practicing Certificate and admission to practice as a lawyer in the country of the selected host organization.
- Up to five years of experience in the legal field following graduation from law school or qualification as a lawyer in the relevant jurisdiction.
- Experience in women’s rights and working in human rights organizations is preferred.
- Applicants must have the right to work in the relevant host country: Kenya, Malawi, South Africa or The Gambia .
- Alignment with CFJ’s mission and goals and those of the relevant host organization.
- Ability to conduct complex legal analysis and fact-finding.
- Excellent research, writing and verbal communication skills.
- Strong interpersonal and teamwork skills, with the ability to work as a self-starter.
- Creativity in developing strategies to advance justice for women and children who are victims of violence or child marriage.
- Commitment to justice and human rights.
- Additional experience working with survivors and/or impacted communities is preferred.
- Willingness to travel.
- Experience working with vulnerable individuals, including children or victims of violence, would be useful.
- Fluency in English. Proficiency in other working languages relevant to the host countries is preferred.
Salary
competitive gross annual salary
How to Apply
To apply, please visit: cfj.org
About the Company
CFJC-TV is a television station in Kamloops, British Columbia, Canada, affiliated with Citytv. Owned by the Jim Pattison Broadcast Group, the station has studios on Pemberton Terrace and Columbia Street West in Kamloops, and its transmitter is located near Southern Yellowhead Highway/Highway 5, southeast of Kamloops Airport.
Frequently Asked Questions
What qualifications or education do I need to become a CFJ Fellow in Zimbabwe?
You typically need a law degree (LLB) from a recognized Zimbabwean university or equivalent institution. Some fellowship programs prefer candidates with demonstrated interest in social justice, human rights, or public interest law through internships or volunteer work. A clean academic record and strong references from legal practitioners or academics strengthen your application.
What are the typical day-to-day responsibilities of a CFJ Fellow?
Fellows usually conduct legal research, draft court documents, and assist with case preparation under supervision. You may also engage in community legal education, client interviews, and advocacy work. Field visits to courts, prisons, or rural communities are common depending on the fellowship focus.
How does the local work culture in Zimbabwe affect fellows in legal roles?
Zimbabwean legal workplaces value respect for hierarchy and formal communication, especially with senior lawyers and judges. Punctuality is important though flexibility is sometimes needed due to infrastructure challenges like power outages. Building personal relationships and networking within the legal community significantly impacts career development.
What career progression paths are available after completing a CFJ Fellowship?
Many fellows transition to associate positions at law firms, NGOs, or international organizations operating in Zimbabwe. Others pursue further specialization through LLM programs or join the judiciary as magistrates after gaining experience. The fellowship often opens doors to regional human rights bodies or UN agencies based in Harare.
What benefits should I expect as a fellow in Zimbabwe's legal sector?
Benefits vary by employer but typically include medical aid coverage, pension contributions through NSSA or private schemes, and annual leave entitlements. Some organizations provide transport allowances or housing support given Harare's cost of living. Always clarify these details during interviews as fellowships may offer stipends rather than full salaries.
How do I apply for a CFJ Fellowship and what do Zimbabwean employers prioritize?
Applications usually require a CV, cover letter, academic transcripts, and writing samples submitted through the organization's website or email. Employers prioritize candidates with clear commitment to public interest law, adaptability, and practical experience through internships at firms like Zimbabwe Lawyers for Human Rights. Strong interview performance demonstrating knowledge of local legal challenges is essential.
