Comprehensive Overview of the Knowledge/Information Management Analyst Role at UNDP Zimbabwe

March 12, 2025

11 minutes read

This Knowledge/Information Management Analyst role with UNDP in Harare, Zimbabwe is a full-time position under a National Personnel Service Agreement (NPSA-9). The job is part of a project focused on disaster risk reduction and recovery, supported by the African Development Bank (AfDB) and the Zimbabwe Resilience Building Fund (ZRBF) Phase 2. The goal is to strengthen the country’s capacity to prepare for and manage climate disaster risks while ensuring financial protection through risk transfer mechanisms like index-based crop insurance.

Key Responsibilitieshttp://Knowledge/Information Management Analyst – UNDP Zimbabwe

Develop Knowledge and Information Management Strategies
- Conduct a needs assessment to identify gaps in existing disaster risk management (DRM) systems.
- Design and implement a knowledge management strategy to improve data collection, sharing, and utilization.
- Promote a knowledge-sharing culture within the Department of Civil Protection (DCP) and its stakeholders.
Develop and Manage a Disaster Risk Information Management System
- Oversee the creation and maintenance of an information system linked to the National Emergency Operation Centre.
- Ensure the system collects, stores, and analyzes disaster risk data efficiently.
- Train DCP staff on how to access and use the system effectively.
- Verify and validate data through ground truthing missions.
Facilitate Knowledge Sharing and Dissemination
- Organize workshops, webinars, and knowledge-sharing sessions.
- Develop reports, case studies, success stories, and lessons learned.
- Work with stakeholders to integrate best practices in disaster risk management.
Ensure Reporting and Communication
- Contribute to monthly and quarterly reports on disaster risk management.
- Track the impact of knowledge management initiatives.
- Report progress and results to relevant UNDP and government bodies.

Who Can Apply?

Education:
- Master’s degree in Development Studies, Information Management, Monitoring & Evaluation, or a related field (2 years of experience required).
- OR a Bachelor’s degree with 4 years of experience.
Experience:
- Proven expertise in knowledge management, monitoring & evaluation, and data analysis.
- Experience in developing and managing databases, information systems, and project monitoring tools.
- Familiarity with disaster risk reduction and management (DRR/DRM) is a plus.
- Previous experience with UNDP or UN agencies is an advantage.
Skills Required:
- Strong communication and writing skills.
- Ability to analyze and manage data.
- Experience in community-based information systems.
- Knowledge of early warning systems.
- Budget planning and management skills.
Languages:
- Fluency in English and either Shona or Ndebele.

Work Environment

The role is based in Harare, Zimbabwe.
There is no mobility required, meaning the job does not require frequent travel.
The contract is for one year, with a possibility of extension.
The role is directly supervised by the Project Coordinator and works closely with the Disaster Risk Management Analyst.

Why This Job Matters@vacancyspaces.com

This role is critical for strengthening Zimbabwe’s disaster preparedness. By improving the way disaster risk information is collected and used, the project aims to reduce the impact of climate-related disasters on vulnerable communities. The job is a great opportunity for professionals interested in climate resilience, disaster risk management, and data-driven decision-making.

Are you interested in applying? I can help refine your application, update your CV, or prepare for the interview!

Sure! Below is a detailed breakdown of the Knowledge/Information Management Analyst role at UNDP in Harare, Zimbabwe, covering every aspect of the job, from responsibilities and qualifications to its impact on disaster risk management in Zimbabwe.

Comprehensive Overview of the Knowledge/Information Management Analyst Role at UNDP Zimbabwe

Introduction to the Role

The Knowledge/Information Management Analyst position at the United Nations Development Programme (UNDP) is a full-time job based in Harare, Zimbabwe. This role is an integral part of disaster risk reduction and recovery efforts under the Zimbabwe Resilience Building Fund (ZRBF Phase 2) in partnership with the African Development Bank (AfDB). The position is structured under a National Personnel Service Agreement (NPSA-9), which is intended for national professionals contributing their expertise to development programs.

This job is highly strategic and technical, requiring a combination of knowledge management, data analysis, disaster risk management, and information system development skills. It is designed for individuals with experience in disaster risk preparedness, project monitoring and evaluation, and knowledge management systems. The analyst will play a critical role in ensuring that disaster risk information is effectively collected, processed, stored, and used for decision-making, particularly in coordination with the Department of Civil Protection (DCP) and the National Emergency Operation Centre.

Background and Context

Zimbabwe is highly vulnerable to climate-induced disasters, including droughts, floods, cyclones, and extreme weather events. These disasters pose severe threats to agriculture, infrastructure, and livelihoods, particularly for communities that depend on farming and natural resources. The Zimbabwe Resilience Building Fund (ZRBF) Phase 2 aims to enhance resilience and adaptation to these climate disaster risks by strengthening the institutional capacity of key government agencies.

The UNDP Zimbabwe is a key technical partner in implementing this initiative, focusing on disaster risk assessments, monitoring systems, and disaster risk information management. This involves:

Improving disaster risk preparedness and management at the national level.
Establishing financial protection mechanisms against climate risks.
Encouraging index-based crop insurance as a safety net for farmers.
Strengthening the Disaster Risk Information Management System (DRIMS) and linking it to the National Emergency Operation Centre.

To achieve these goals, the Knowledge/Information Management Analyst will support the establishment and management of information systems, develop strategies for capturing and disseminating knowledge, and ensure that all stakeholders have access to accurate and up-to-date disaster risk data.

Key Responsibilities

The Knowledge/Information Management Analyst will undertake a range of activities categorized into four main functional areas:

1. Development of Knowledge and Information Management Strategies

Conduct a needs assessment to evaluate:
- Existing knowledge management systems.
- Gaps in information collection and dissemination.
- The capacity of stakeholders to utilize information systems.
Design and implement a comprehensive knowledge management strategy, including:
- Standard Operating Procedures (SOPs) for data collection, storage, and analysis.
- Guidelines for disaster risk information sharing and collaboration.
Promote a knowledge-sharing culture within DCP and its stakeholders by:
- Organizing awareness campaigns.
- Training staff on how to use disaster risk information systems.
- Establishing platforms for continuous learning and improvement.

2. Development and Management of a Disaster Risk Information Management System (DRIMS)

Oversee the development and maintenance of a centralized information system for disaster risk management.
Ensure that the DRIMS:
- Stores and organizes relevant data, reports, and best practices.
- Allows for real-time updates on disaster risk assessments.
- Provides a user-friendly interface for stakeholders to access critical information.
Work closely with the National Emergency Operation Centre to ensure seamless integration of information.
Validate and verify data through ground truthing missions, including field assessments and quality control checks.
Liaise with national and sub-national partners to ensure data collection and analysis align with international standards.

Facilitate knowledge exchange through:
- Workshops and webinars on disaster risk management.
- Internal knowledge-sharing platforms for government agencies.
Develop and disseminate knowledge products, including:
- Disaster monitoring reports.
- Case studies and lessons learned.
- Project briefs and success stories.
Conduct after-action reviews to capture key insights and inform future disaster response strategies.
Foster partnerships with:
- Other UN agencies working on climate resilience.
- Development organizations that provide funding and technical expertise.
- Research institutions specializing in disaster risk analysis.

4. Reporting and Communication

Prepare and submit monthly and quarterly reports on disaster risk management activities.
Track key performance indicators (KPIs) to assess the effectiveness of knowledge management initiatives.
Maintain clear and concise documentation of all activities, including:
- Contributions to UNDP reports.
- Policy recommendations for government agencies.
- Updates for donors and stakeholders.
Ensure all reporting aligns with international best practices and UNDP’s internal policies.

Institutional Arrangements

The Knowledge/Information Management Analyst will work under the direct supervision of the Project Coordinator and will collaborate closely with the Disaster Risk Management Analyst. The analyst will be responsible for overseeing the implementation of disaster risk information management strategies and capacity building activities within the Department of Civil Protection (DCP).

Additionally, the analyst will coordinate with:

The Ministry of Finance, Economic Development, and Investment Promotion (MoFEDIP), which oversees overall project implementation.
The National Emergency Operation Centre, which houses the Disaster Risk Information Management System.
Local and international stakeholders, including civil society organizations, universities, and private sector partners.

Required Qualifications and Competencies

Education:

A Master’s degree in Development Studies, Information Management, Monitoring and Evaluation, or a related field.
Alternatively, a Bachelor’s degree in the same fields, with two additional years of experience.

Experience:

Minimum of 2 years (with Master’s) or 4 years (with Bachelor’s) of relevant experience in:
- Knowledge management.
- Monitoring and evaluation.
- Designing and implementing information management systems.
Desired experience includes:
- At least 3 years in data analysis, database management, and disaster risk information systems.
- Experience in developing and managing early warning systems.
- Knowledge of community-based monitoring systems.
- Previous experience with UNDP or similar UN agencies.

Technical Skills:

Proficiency in:
- Data collection tools and methodologies.
- Geospatial data analysis and GIS software.
- Database management systems.
- Project monitoring frameworks.

Languages:

Fluency in English (written and spoken).
Fluency in either Shona or Ndebele.

Impact of the Role

This position plays a vital role in enhancing Zimbabwe’s capacity to manage climate-induced disasters. By improving how disaster risk information is captured, analyzed, and shared, the Knowledge/Information Management Analyst will contribute to:

Reducing the vulnerability of communities to climate-related disasters.
Improving early warning systems, allowing for timely disaster response.
Strengthening government capacity to plan for and manage emergencies.
Enhancing resilience at both the community and national levels.

Conclusion

This is a high-impact, technical role requiring expertise in knowledge management, data systems, and disaster risk reduction. The successful candidate will play a pivotal role in strengthening Zimbabwe’s disaster preparedness and response mechanisms, ensuring that decision-makers have access to timely and accurate information.

Would you like assistance with your application, such as tailoring your CV or writing a cover letter? I can help Eexpanded and detailed version of the Knowledge/Information Management Analyst role at UNDP Zimbabwe, covering all possible aspects . This will help you fully understand the role, responsibilities, impact, required skills, and how this position contributes to Zimbabwe’s disaster risk management framework.

Comprehensive Analysis of the Knowledge/Information Management Analyst Position at UNDP Zimbabwe

Introduction
Understanding UNDP’s Role in Disaster Risk Reduction in Zimbabwe
The Zimbabwe Resilience Building Fund (ZRBF) – Context and Goals
Key Responsibilities of the Knowledge/Information Management Analyst
Knowledge and Information Management Strategies
Development and Management of the Disaster Risk Information Management System (DRIMS)
Data Analysis, Monitoring, and Reporting
Collaboration with Stakeholders and Capacity Building
Technical Competencies and Required Skills
Educational and Professional Requirements
Challenges and Opportunities in the Role
Impact of the Role on Zimbabwe’s Disaster Risk Preparedness
Conclusion

1. Introduction

The Knowledge/Information Management Analyst position at UNDP Zimbabwe is a full-time job based in Harare, Zimbabwe. This role is a critical component of Zimbabwe’s disaster risk management and climate resilience initiatives. It supports the Zimbabwe Resilience Building Fund (ZRBF) Phase 2, a program that aims to enhance resilience and adaptation to climate disaster risks for vulnerable communities across the country.

This role is strategic, technical, and highly analytical, requiring expertise in disaster risk management, knowledge systems, data analysis, and project evaluation. The selected candidate will play a pivotal role in ensuring that accurate, real-time disaster risk data is collected, processed, stored, and shared with relevant stakeholders.

The Department of Civil Protection (DCP), under Zimbabwe’s Ministry of Finance, Economic Development, and Investment Promotion (MoFEDIP), will collaborate closely with the UNDP to execute the project. The Knowledge/Information Management Analyst will work under the guidance of the Project Coordinator, in conjunction with the Disaster Risk Management Analyst, to ensure smooth implementation.

2. Understanding UNDP’s Role in Disaster Risk Reduction in Zimbabwe

What is UNDP?

The United Nations Development Programme (UNDP) is one of the leading development organizations globally, working to eradicate poverty and build sustainable, resilient communities. The organization has been actively involved in disaster risk reduction (DRR) and climate change adaptation programs worldwide.

UNDP Zimbabwe’s Disaster Risk Management Mandate

In Zimbabwe, UNDP plays a crucial role in supporting disaster preparedness, particularly in the face of:

Extreme weather events (droughts, cyclones, floods).
Climate change risks impacting agriculture and food security.
Fragile ecosystems vulnerable to land degradation and deforestation.
Weak institutional frameworks for disaster response.

The Knowledge/Information Management Analyst contributes to this mission by developing knowledge systems that ensure the availability of accurate and timely disaster risk information.

3. The Zimbabwe Resilience Building Fund (ZRBF) – Context and Goals

The ZRBF Phase 2 is implemented in collaboration with the African Development Bank (AfDB). Its primary goal is to enhance resilience and adaptation to climate disaster risks in Zimbabwe by:

Strengthening institutional capacity for disaster risk management.
Increasing financial protection against climate risks.
Introducing index-based crop insurance for vulnerable farming communities.

Role of the Knowledge/Information Management Analyst in ZRBF

Setting up a Disaster Risk Information Management System (DRIMS).
Enhancing institutional knowledge-sharing platforms.
Supporting real-time data collection for climate risk assessments.
Ensuring evidence-based decision-making for disaster response.

4. Key Responsibilities of the Knowledge/Information Management Analyst

The responsibilities of this role can be broken down into four major areas:

Developing Knowledge and Information Management Strategies
Overseeing the Development of DRIMS
Facilitating Knowledge Sharing and Dissemination
Managing Reporting, Data Quality, and Impact Assessment

5. Knowledge and Information Management Strategies

Assessing Existing Knowledge Management Systems

Conduct a comprehensive needs assessment to evaluate:
- Current knowledge-sharing practices within DCP.
- Existing data management gaps.
- Institutional barriers to disaster information flow.

Designing and Implementing a Knowledge Management Framework

Develop Standard Operating Procedures (SOPs) for:
- Data collection and storage.
- Information validation and quality assurance.
- Knowledge-sharing mechanisms among stakeholders.

Organize awareness programs on the importance of knowledge management.
Implement training programs for key government agencies.

6. Development and Management of the Disaster Risk Information Management System (DRIMS)

The DRIMS will be the backbone of disaster preparedness in Zimbabwe.

Core Features of the DRIMS

Real-time disaster risk data collection
Integration with early warning systems
User-friendly dashboards for emergency response teams
GIS mapping for disaster hotspots

Key Responsibilities in Managing DRIMS

Ensure high-quality data inputs from government and local agencies.
Develop training materials to help stakeholders navigate the system.
Implement data security measures to prevent unauthorized access.

7. Data Analysis, Monitoring, and Reporting

Data Collection and Validation

Coordinate data gathering missions in disaster-prone regions.
Verify the accuracy and reliability of collected data.

Developing Disaster Monitoring Reports

Generate monthly and quarterly reports for policymakers.
Analyze trends in disaster occurrences and responses.

Tracking Key Performance Indicators (KPIs)

Measure the effectiveness of early warning systems.
Monitor community engagement levels in disaster preparedness.

8. Collaboration with Stakeholders and Capacity Building

Partnerships with Government Agencies

Work closely with:
- Department of Civil Protection (DCP)
- Ministry of Finance, Economic Development, and Investment Promotion
- National Emergency Operation Centre

Engaging with Local Communities

Train local disaster response teams on using DRIMS.
Develop community-based knowledge-sharing programs.

Working with International Partners

Collaborate with UN agencies such as:
- World Food Programme (WFP)
- United Nations Office for Disaster Risk Reduction (UNDRR)

9. Technical Competencies and Required Skills

Core Competencies

Data analysis and statistical modeling
Geographic Information Systems (GIS)
Cloud-based knowledge management platforms
Stakeholder engagement and policy formulation

Soft Skills

Strong analytical thinking
Excellent communication skills
Ability to work in a high-pressure environment

10. Educational and Professional Requirements

Master’s degree in:
- Development Studies
- Information Management
- Monitoring and Evaluation
Bachelor’s degree + 4 years of experience in the same fields.

Preferred Work Experience

Minimum 2 years (Master’s) / 4 years (Bachelor’s) in:
- Disaster Risk Management
- Knowledge Systems Development
- Monitoring and Evaluation (M&E)

11. Challenges and Opportunities in the Role

Challenges

Limited resources for knowledge management initiatives.
Resistance to adopting new technologies in disaster preparedness.

Opportunities

Career growth in international development organizations.
Opportunity to influence national disaster management policies.

12. Impact of the Role on Zimbabwe’s Disaster Risk Preparedness

Improved early warning systems for communities.
Better decision-making frameworks for the government.
Enhanced resilience to climate-induced disasters.

13. Conclusion

The Knowledge/Information Management Analyst role is critical to ensuring Zimbabwe’s disaster resilience. Through data management, stakeholder collaboration, and knowledge-sharing initiatives, the successful candidate will play a pivotal role in strengthening Zimbabwe’s disaster risk response capabilities.

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March 12, 2025

11 minutes read