Local NGO

Deadline: 21 May 2021

About the organisation

A local human rights group that promotes and protects human rights in Zimbabwe.

Background

The Constitution of Zimbabwe Amendment (No.20) enshrines the rights of arrested and detained persons, specifically the right to conditions of detention that are consistent with human dignity. This includes the prisoner’s right to the opportunity for physical exercise, and the provision, at the State’s expense, of adequate accommodation, ablution facilities, personal hygiene, nutrition, appropriate reading material and medical treatment. It is with this background that the organization conducted prison visits in 2020 to assess the state of the Zimbabwean prison system.

The assessment conducted revealed the dire state of prisons in Zimbabwe and the need for the State to improve conditions of incarcerated persons. There is overcrowding in prisons, lack of proper meals, proper ablution facilities and inadequate medical services. The COVID 19 pandemic has exacerbated the need for prison reform as prisoners face a greater risk of contracting the virus. The lack of masks, sanitizers, running water and proper medical services have placed prisoners at risk. The reports compiled bring to light the dire situation in the Zimbabwean prison system.

It is on this background and upon realization of the importance of the rights of prisoners and the current state of prisons in Zimbabwe that a local human rights organization is seeking the services of the Consultant to compile a report on the prison system. A local human rights organization is seeking the services of a Consultant to compile the report for publishing.

Objectives

To produce and publish a comprehensive prison report highlighting the current state of prisons in Zimbabwe.

Role and Responsibilities

The Consultant will: Produce a comprehensive report on the state of prisons in Zimbabwe using the information compiled by the organization; To provide recommendations for prison system reform in Zimbabwe.

Qualifications/Requirements

Suitable applicants must possess the following: Knowledge of human rights law and in particular rights of detained persons; Minimum qualification of a Masters degree in a related field (Law/Social Sciences/Development studies etc.); At least 4 years’ experience within the human rights sector; Previous published works on human rights law; Traceable references on previous Consultancy work.

Expression of Interest

Interested persons must submit: Provide a brief resume (not more than 2 pages) focusing on required skills and experience); Institutions/organizations should send an organizational profile and resume for lead consultant; Provide technical and financial proposals on the project.