VMCZ

Deadline: 12 February 2021

The purpose of this assignment is to guide the engagement of a Researcher/Consultant to conduct a research on government’s responsiveness and actions on management of Covid 19 resources and media demands for accountability

Background

The VMCZ is undertaking research into government’s responsiveness and actions on management of Covid 19 resources and how the government has responded to media’s requests for information on the utilization of Covid 19 resources and mitigation factors in controlling the disease. The research will also calibrate on how the government has responded to requests for accountability from the media and review the communication mechanisms in place and how effective the mechanisms have been in enhancing transparency and government openness in handling the pandemic. The research should also offer recommendations on how the government can improve communication channels with the media when handling future pandemics.

Scope and purpose of assignment

The Researcher /Consultant will report directly to the Executive Director at VMCZ. Through the designated staff, there will be close collaboration and consultation in the stages of the production of the research report. The final report produced in this research will be used as an advocacy tool for lobbying government through its responsible ministry, health departments, solution holders, the legislature and other relevant stakeholders to deliver improved and enhanced communication strategies when dealing with the media during pandemics and emergency health situations.

Researcher / consultant’s tasks

The Researcher/ Consultant is expected to complete this work in nine working days and produce a draft report in 14 working days: Conduct interviews with Focus Groups; Conduct telephone interviews with key government officials working around Covid 19 policies, hold discussions with senior media personnel/editors around accessing Covid 19 information from key stakeholders, conduct desk-reviews on government communication plans on Covid 19, interview a cross section of the media across the 10 provinces of the country in order to get a picture of information access around Covid 19; review of relevant documents in order to analyse issues identified as barriers to effective media and government communications; Prepare and present an outline draft research document for discussion and validation by VMCZ secretariat; Submit the final consolidated and reviewed research document.

Work timeline (14 days)

Commencement of Research - 15 February 2021

Submission First draft of the Report – 25 February 2021

Submission of Final and Research Document – 29 February 2021

Payment schedule

Full payment will be made on completion and acceptance of the deliverables.

Qualification and experience

Minimum of a Bachelor’s degree in Media/ Journalism, International Affairs, Political Science, and or any other related field. Ten years or more of academic or professional research an advantage.

In-depth knowledge of media and communication issues. Strong attention to detail, ability to adhere to tight deadlines, and ability to adapt to rapidly changing situations is essential.