Consultancy Opportunity :Review and Development of Termination of Pregnancy (TOP) Model Law and in Zimbabwe
Consultancy, Research Jobs
- Expires 03 Oct 2025
- Harare
- Full Time
Job Description
1. Background and Context
Access to safe abortion services in Zimbabwe remains highly restricted under the Termination of Pregnancy Act [Chapter 15:10] (1977), which permits abortion only in cases of Rape, Incest, fetal impairment, or to save a woman’s life. Even with these legal grounds for termination, there are too many administrative hurdles for a victim to obtain an order of termination. In the case of Mildred Mapingure v Minister of Home Affairs & 2 Others SC-22-14, these administrative issues came out. The applicant in the matter was a rape victim who failed to obtain an order for termination timeously as she was referred from one office to another, until it was too late to perform the termination. The case made it clear that there was need for the termination of pregnancy process to be simplified. This restrictive legal framework has led to a high prevalence of unsafe abortions, contributing to maternal mortality and morbidity. Studies indicate that over 66,000 unsafe abortions occur annually in Zimbabwe, with adolescent girls and marginalized women being the most affected. The lack of comprehensive reproductive health information, stigma, and barriers to service provision further exacerbate the problem.
Women and Law in Southern Africa (WLSA) Zimbabwe has been actively advocating for reproductive rights, particularly safe and legal abortion. WLSA, together with other CSO’s who are under the Safe Abortion Coalition (SAC) developed a Termination of Pregnancy Model Law. WLSA and SAC intends to present and introduce the model law in Parliament as a Private Members’ Bill. The model law introduces a simplified process for conducting lawful abortion to ensure that this is performed within the recommended time. However, there is need to refine the model law to ensure that it can be presented in Parliament.
Duties and Responsibilities
2. Objectives
The objectives of this consultancy are:
1. To review and strengthen the content and substance of the TOP Model Law developed by WLSA and SAC.
3. Key Responsibilities
3.1 Review of the Current Model Law
o Conduct an in-depth review of the TOP model law, focusing on content, legal provisions, wording and legal meaning and effect of the drafted model.
o Recommend revisions to align the law with human rights standards, the Maputo Protocol, and reproductive justice principles.
4 Reporting and Final Deliverables
4.1 Submit a reviewed Termination of Pregnancy Model Law for WLSA and SAC members.
Qualifications and Experience
5. Qualifications and Experience
• Educational Qualifications:
o A law degree (LLB) required. A postgraduate qualification in human rights or a related field is an advantage.
• Experience:
o At least 15 years of experience in legal research or advocacy on women’s rights, specifically in sexual and reproductive health and rights.
o Proven experience in reproductive justice or abortion law issues, with a background in criminal litigation.
o Familiarity with Zimbabwe’s abortion laws and regional legal frameworks (e.g., Maputo Protocol).
• Skills and Competencies:
o Excellent analytical and writing skills, with the ability to produce clear and accessible reports.
o Ability to work independently and manage deadlines effectively.
o Strong interpersonal skills for engaging with diverse stakeholders.
How to Apply
Application Process
Interested candidates should submit their CV, a cover letter, and an outline of their approach, including a proposed work plan and timeline. Applications must be sent to procurement315@wlsazim.co.zw by 03 Oct 2025.
