: Local NGO

Deadline: 23 May 2021

Time Frame for assignment: 10 days

Reports to: Community mobilisation officer

Introduction and background

Public procurement in most developing countries constitute an average of about 5% of the Gross Domestic Product (GDP) as well as about 20% of public expenditure (Chigudu, 2014). Public procurement is, therefore, a critical economic anchor. Public procurement of goods and services generally consume a significant proportion of the Government budget, hence the need to ensure that leakages that arise from the public procurement processes are plugged to ensure value for money. Due to huge amounts and resources involved, public procurement is susceptible to corruption. Zimbabwe has over the years changed its legislation on public procurement with an aim of ensuring transparency and accountability. However, there is information asymmetry amongst various stakeholders on procedures and guidelines to adhere to in order to reduce corruption and promote accountability. A local NGO working closely with the Procurement Regulatory Authority of Zimbabwe seeks the services of a consultant to develop public procurement handbook/ manual for policy makers, citizens (practitioner & non-practitioners) and procuring entities in the public sector.

Expectations

In consultation with the organization’s community mobilization team a consultant is expected to develop a detailed and well researched procurement handbook. Research and develop appropriate content using relevant diction for the intended stakeholders. Creatively unpack and simplify the Public procurement and disposal of Public asserts Act (PPDPA) to the understanding of practitioners and non-practitioners. Present the manual to various stakeholders in targeted workshops.

Deliverables

Submission of periodic progress reports as agreed in the contract. A well-written and comprehensive manual/ handbook.

Scheduling

The assignment is scheduled to run for 10 days from the date of awarding of the contract.

Payment

Payments by the organization are delivery-based. Any deliverable not meeting the required specifications will have to be reworked and resubmitted at no additional cost to the organization. The proposed payment schedule for this assignment is upon submission of progress reports on completed tasks, outlined against planned outputs. Based on the report and satisfactory performance, payments will be approved by the Executive Director.

Role of the local organisation

The organization through its community mobilization team will work together with the consultant on this assignment. The organization will also avail all the necessary documentation and information required for the execution of the assignment and review the draft report.

Qualifications and Experience

Advanced university degree (MA or PhD) in social sciences preferably Public procurement studies, Governance studies, Development studies, Policy studies, Statistics or any other relevant subjects. Minimum five years of work experience on procurement related issues. Demonstrated knowledge and experience in developing a manual or handbook on procurement. Excellent English language skills and ability to write clear and compelling content for a wide variety of audiences. Ability to work with minimum supervision and deliver the outputs with high quality.