Project Background:

The Sexuality Education for Transformation Project Phase II (SET 2.0) aims to address the urgent need for comprehensive sexuality education (CSE) and enhance the sexual health rights of young people in the Southern African Development Community (SADC) region.  This project seeks to combat the systemic suppression of young people’s sexual health rights, which has been exacerbated by governmental and societal influences, contributing to high rates of teenage pregnancies, HIV infections, and gender-based violence (GBV). The project will utilize a human rights-based approach to empower youth and ensure their access to necessary sexual and reproductive health services.

Geographical Scope:

The SET 2.0 project will be implemented in Malawi, Zambia, and Zimbabwe.

Call for Partners:

The SET 2.0 project is seeking expressions of interest (EOIs) from civil society organizations with proven experience and expertise in the following thematic areas

• Comprehensive Sexuality Education (CSE)
• Sexual and Reproductive Health and Rights (SRHR)
• Youth Engagement and Development
• Advocacy and Policy Influencing related to SRHR
• Community Mobilization and Social Change related to SRHR

Desired Partner Attributes:

SAYWHAT is particularly interested in partnering with organizations that possess the following: –

• Demonstrated experience in implementing successful programs in the above thematic areas, preferably within the SADC region.
• Strong community presence and reach, especially among young people (including marginalized and vulnerable populations).
• Experience working with diverse groups, including marginalized and vulnerable populations.
• A strong understanding of the local context and challenges related to SRHR in local country i.e., Malawi, Zambia, and/or Zimbabwe.
• A commitment to gender equality, human rights, and ethical practices.

Selection Criteria:

Preferred organizations shall be evaluated based on the following criteria:

• Legal and Ethical Compliance
  • Current and Legal registration and non-profit status.
  • Current tax compliance certification.
  • Adherence to safeguarding policies and child protection measures.
  • Commitment to gender equality, human rights, and ethical practices.
• Organizational Capacity
  • Proven track record of at least three years in the relevant thematic area(s).
  • Demonstrated capacity to manage donor funds and adhere to financial accountability standards.
  • Strong organizational structure and governance, including a clear organizational chart.
  • Commitment to monitoring, evaluation, and learning.
  • Evidence of community acceptance and strong relationships with target groups.
  • Technical expertise and capacity to deliver high-quality programs.
• Experience and Expertise
  • Demonstrated experience in implementing successful programs in the above thematic areas, preferably within the SADC region.
  • Strong community presence and reach, especially among young people (including marginalized and vulnerable populations).
  • Experience working with diverse groups, including marginalized and vulnerable populations.
  • A deep understanding of the local SRHR context and challenges in Malawi, Zambia, and/or Zimbabwe, as applicable to the organization’s country of operation.
• Financial Transparency:
  • Submission of audited financial statements for the past two years.
  • Demonstrated financial transparency and accountability.
  • Evidence of sound financial management practices.

Expression of Interest (EOI) Requirements:

Interested organizations are requested to submit an EOI containing the following:

1. A cover letter with clear contact details on official letterhead outlining the organization’s interest and suitability for the partnership, highlighting relevant experience in the target countries.
2. A brief profile of the organization, including its mission, vision, and key programs.
3. Evidence of relevant experience and expertise in the thematic areas, including specific examples of past projects and their impact.
4. Certified copies of legal registration documents.
5. Two organizational references, one of which should be a former or current funder.

Submission Details:

1. The deadline for submitting Expressions of Interest (EOIs) is March 10, 2025, at 23:00 hours. Submissions received after this deadline shall not be considered. EOIs should be submitted electronically in PDF format to tenders@saywhat.org.zw addressed to the Chair of the Selection Committee.

• Please indicate the specific country/countries (Malawi, Zambia, and/or Zimbabwe) and thematic area(s) your organization is applying for in the subject line of the email (e.g., “EOI – SET 2.0 Partnership – Malawi).

Next Steps:

SET 2.0 will review all EOIs received and shortlist organizations that meet the criteria. Only shortlisted organizations will be invited to participate in further assessment and discussions, which may include interviews, proposal development, and due diligence.