Mission and objectives The United Nations Population Fund (UNFPA), is the lead United Nations agency for Sexual and Reproductive Health and Rights with a priority focus on women and young people.The overall vision of the new 8th Country Programme (2022-2026) is to improve the health and well-being of women, young people; vulnerable and marginalized groups in Zimbabwe by ensuring universal access to quality integrated SRHR information and services in an enabling environment. This will contribute to the attainment of the three transformative results in UNFPA’s Global Strategic Plan: Zero unmet need for family planning, Zero preventable maternal deaths, Zero gender-based violence, and the East and Southern Africa regional priority of ending sexual transmission of HIV.
Context The UNFPA Zimbabwe Gender programme supports efficient and effective GBV risk mitigation, prevention and response systems, and ensures availability and accessibility of essential multi sectoral GBV services, especially for girls and women, including in humanitarian settings. Specific interventions include: (a) advocacy for the development and implementation of gender responsive legislation, policy guidelines and strategies, and improved funding for reducing GBV; (b) improve knowledge of women and girls on life skills, gender-equitable norms, attitudes and behaviours, including sexuality and reproduction, self-confidence and self-esteem, and their capacity to adequately access GBV services; (c) enhance the capacity of national and subnational partners on GBV in emergencies preparedness; (d) support male engagement interventions on positive masculinities for the active involvement of men and boys to prevent and address gender-based violence; (e) strengthen the capacities of communities to ensure gender equality and increase the agency of women and girls; (f) strengthen the integrated essential services package on GBV within the health, judicial and other sectors, including ‘one-stop centres’, community shelters and safe spaces; (g) scale-up mobile and remote GBV essential service provision models in remote and hard-to-reach areas; and (h) scale-up partnership and coordination and cooperation with the Government, United Nations agencies and other key stakeholders for joint programming and improved coordination to address gender-based violence and early marriage.
Job Summary
- Type: full-time
- Location: Harare
- Category: Project Management
- Closing Date: 2026-08-01
Key Responsibilities
- Working with programme analyst Gender &GBV, come up with draft annual work plans in consultation with IPs, relevant country office colleagues and programme sup-port unit then facilitate finalisation
- Support review all implementing partner quarterly work plans and request for advances in line with the signed annual work plans
- Participate in reviewing partner quarterly reports checking accuracy and contribution to the Gender unit CPD commitments and assist in organising quarterly review meetings as part of monitoring in order to keep track of progress
- Support visibility of UNFPA in implementing partner activities
- Participate in field missions to support IP implementation of agreed work plan activities
- Ensure linkages with other UNFPA programme areas i.e SRH, Adolescents and Youth and P&D in order to provide maximum benefit to survivors in line with country office programme
- As part of the gender team, contribute to resource mobilisation efforts for GBV response
- Participate in relevant internal and external meetings ensuring UNFPA mandate is well reflected and understood
Requirements
- Eligibility criteria Age 18 – 80
- Required experience No experience required
- Nationality Candidate must be a national, legal resident or hold refugee status in the country of assignment.
- Assignment requirements Relevant experience No experience required
- Languages English, Level: Fluent, Required
- Required education level Secondary education
- Competencies and values * Communication * Creativity * Integrity * Professionalism * Respect for Diversity * Working in Teams
- Demonstrated experience in Gender Based Violence prevention and response.
- Good interpersonal, networking and communication skills;
- Computer skills (i.e. Word, Excel, PowerPoint, social media,) is required; knowledge of infographics development tools highly preferred;
- While a university degree is not required for this assignment, candidates with a bachelor’s degree or equivalent qualification in a relevant field are encouraged to apply.
- Area(s) of expertise Community development, Emergency preparedness, crisis response, Project management, programme development, strategy
Salary
this position offer…
How to Apply
To apply, please visit: ihararejobs.com
Frequently Asked Questions
What are the typical qualifications and educational background required for a Programme Assistant role with the UNFPA in Zimbabwe?
Generally, a university degree in Social Sciences, Public Health, Development Studies, or a related field is expected, sometimes combined with relevant diplomas. Practical experience in project administration or programme support, especially with NGOs or UN agencies in Zimbabwe, is highly valued.
What are the common day-to-day responsibilities for a Programme Assistant at an organization like UNFPA in Zimbabwe?
Daily tasks often involve providing administrative support, data entry, scheduling meetings, and assisting with report preparation for various programmes. You would also help coordinate logistics for field activities, workshops, and engage with local partners across Zimbabwe.
What is the typical work culture and what are the expectations for a Programme Assistant within a UN agency like UNFPA in Zimbabwe?
The work culture is generally professional and structured, emphasizing teamwork, accountability, and adherence to international standards. Expect strong collaboration with local government bodies and civil society organizations, requiring adaptability and cultural sensitivity in the Zimbabwean context.
What are the realistic career progression opportunities for a Programme Assistant within the UNFPA or similar development organizations in Zimbabwe?
With experience and further training, a Programme Assistant can advance to roles like Programme Associate, Junior Programme Officer, or specialize in areas such as monitoring and evaluation. Networking and demonstrating strong performance are key for upward mobility within the UN system or other NGOs in Zimbabwe.
What kind of benefits, such as leave, medical aid, or pension, can a Programme Assistant expect from a UN agency like UNFPA in Zimbabwe?
UN agencies typically offer competitive benefits packages, including comprehensive medical aid, a generous leave policy (annual leave, sick leave, maternity/paternity leave), and participation in a reputable pension scheme. These benefits are designed to support staff well-being and security in Zimbabwe.
What does the application process typically involve for a Programme Assistant role with UNFPA, and what do employers in Zimbabwe look for?
The application usually involves submitting an online application, a detailed CV, and a cover letter through the UN careers portal. Employers in Zimbabwe look for candidates with strong organizational skills, proven experience in programme support, and a good understanding of the local development context.