Sightsavers Seeks Consultant to Lead the Development of Zimbabwe’s National Trachoma Elimination Dossier

Development of the Zimbabwe National Trachoma Dossier

Sightsavers, in collaboration with the Ministry of Health and Child Care (MoHCC) in Zimbabwe, is seeking a qualified and experienced consultant to lead the development of Zimbabwe’s National Trachoma Elimination Dossier. This critical consultancy will support the country’s bid to validate the elimination of trachoma as a public health problem, in alignment with World Health Organization (WHO) guidelines.

Background

Trachoma, caused by the bacterium Chlamydia trachomatis, remains the leading infectious cause of blindness globally. It disproportionately affects vulnerable populations with limited access to water, sanitation, and hygiene (WASH) facilities conditions prevalent in many low-income, rural communities.

To combat this, the WHO recommends the SAFE strategy (Surgery, Antibiotics, Facial cleanliness, and Environmental improvement). These interventions are supported by data from population-based prevalence surveys which determine the extent of endemicity and help monitor progress towards elimination.

Zimbabwe launched the Zimbabwe Accelerate Trachoma Elimination Programme (ZATEP) in January 2019. The MoHCC, with the support of its partners, has since mapped 61 of the country’s 63 districts, identifying trachoma as endemic in 23 of them. The two remaining districts were excluded due to their urban nature and lower risk profile. The nation now aims to achieve trachoma elimination by 2027.

As part of this goal, WHO requires countries to submit a comprehensive dossier for expert review. The dossier must document the epidemiological status of trachoma in all districts both endemic and non-endemic and provide evidence of SAFE strategy implementation.

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Consultancy Purpose and Deliverables

The selected consultant will be responsible for compiling Zimbabwe’s trachoma elimination dossier in accordance with WHO standards. Key tasks include:

Completing the narrative dossier: Documenting the country’s trachoma elimination journey and detailing all relevant activities up to March 2025, along with annexures.
Completing the Excel dossier template: Entering accurate data reflecting trachoma prevalence and SAFE implementation for the same period.

Consultancy Terms

Duration: Maximum of 26 working days
Rate: Up to USD $250 per day (inclusive of taxes)

Please refer to the detailed Terms of Reference (ToR) for additional information on the consultancy scope, expected outcomes, and timelines.

Required Qualifications and Experience

Applicants must meet the following criteria:

A degree in public health, social science, or medicine; a master’s degree in these areas is desirable.
Demonstrated experience with Neglected Tropical Disease (NTD) programmes.
Competence in both quantitative and qualitative public health research, including participatory methodologies.
Previous engagement with the Zimbabwe Accelerate Trachoma Elimination Programme is an asset.
Proven experience in professional writing and document preparation.
Solid understanding of Zimbabwe’s public health infrastructure.
Strong interpersonal skills and experience working with diverse teams in the health sector.

Application Process

To apply:

Complete the online Expression of Interest (EOI) form, including your proposed daily rate and availability.
Upload your CV or team CVs.
Attach samples of similar work, if available.
Be prepared for interviews on 27 May 2025 and submit two business/safeguarding references if shortlisted.

Sightsavers values diversity and inclusivity and encourages all qualified individuals to apply, especially persons with disabilities. All applicants will undergo rigorous background checks in line with Sightsavers’ zero-tolerance policy on sexual exploitation and abuse.