Job Description
Terms of Reference
Issue Paper on the Experiences and lived Realities of Women, Indigenous People, and Other Vulnerable Groups in Extractive Industries
1. General Information
The Women and Law in Southern Africa Research and Education Trust (WLSA) is a registered Private Voluntary Organization (PVO 16/2016) established in 1989 to enhance the sustained well-being of women and girls in Southern Africa. Operating in Zimbabwe, Zambia, Botswana, Malawi, Lesotho, Swaziland (Eswatini), and Mozambique, WLSA integrates research with action by challenging laws, campaigning for changes in policies, educating women and girls about their rights, providing legal advice, and gender sensitising communities and leadership. WLSA aims to promote the effective participation of women and girls in decisions that affect their lives.
2. Background
Zimbabwe’s extractive industries have disproportionately impacted women, indigenous people, and other vulnerable groups through systemic discrimination, gender-based violence (GBV), and economic exclusion. These effects are amplified by environmental degradation and climate change, resulting in the disempowerment of women and the violation of their human rights.
The issue paper seeks to highlight these experiences, amplify the voices of affected individuals, and advocate for systemic changes in policy and practice within extractive industries.
Duties and Responsibilities
3. Objectives
The primary objectives of the issue paper are:
1. To document, in writing the lived experiences of women, indigenous people, and other vulnerable groups affected by extractive industries in Zimbabwe.
2. To raise awareness about gender-specific challenges, including GBV, economic exclusion, and loss of livelihoods.
3. To advocate for gender-sensitive policies and practices in the extractive sector.
4. Scope of Work
The consultant will be responsible for the following:
• Carry out desk research on lived experiences of women, indigenous people, and other vulnerable groups affected by extractive industries in Zimbabwe, especially in Kadoma, Penhalonga, and Shurugwi.
• Draft an issue paper on gender-specific challenges, including GBV, economic exclusion, loss of livelihoods, and suggestions on improved policies and practices in the extractive sector.
Final Deliverables:
• A comprehensive issue paper specifying the issues of concern faced by women, indigenous people, and other vulnerable groups in the extractive sector and possible policy or practical interventions to address these issues.
5. Target Audience
• Policy and decision-makers in the extractive industry.
• Advocacy organizations and NGOs at national, regional, and international level.
• Communities impacted by extractive industries.
• Women in mining
• Women and Girls living in mining areas
Qualifications and Experience
7. Qualifications and Experience
The consultant should have:
1. A Masters Degree in Women’s Law, National Resources Governance or Development Studies.
2. At least 5 years proven experience in human rights, gender, mining or natural resources governance.
3. Experience in research and production of policy and practice analysis papers.
4. Familiarity with gender-sensitive and culturally language.
How to Apply
8. Application Process
Interested candidates/organizations are invited to submit:
1. A technical proposal outlining their approach to the issue paper including methodology, and timeline.
2. Portfolio of previous work (links, etc).
3. CV which includes 3 traceable references.
4. Academic certificates
9. Submission Deadline
Proposals must be submitted by 17 January 2025 to procurement315@gmail.com
