TERMS OF REFERENCE

Consultant to Develop Guidelines for Disability Inclusion in Electoral Processes in Zambia

1. Background

The Zambia Federation of Disability Organisations (ZAFOD), with support from the International Foundation for Electoral Systems (IFES), is implementing the project "Fostering ECZ Engagement with Persons with Disabilities to Improve Electoral Access."

One of the project's key outputs is the development of comprehensive Guidelines for Disability Inclusion in Electoral Processes to support the Electoral Commission of Zambia and other electoral stakeholders in improving accessibility and participation for persons with disabilities.

ZAFOD therefore seeks to engage a qualified consultant to develop these Guidelines.

2. Objective of the Consultancy

To develop comprehensive and practical Guidelines for Disability Inclusion in Electoral Processes in Zambia informed by national legislation, international standards, stakeholder consultations, and lessons emerging from the 2026 electoral process.

3. Scope of Work

The consultant shall:

• Review relevant literature, laws, policies and international best practices.
• Review Article 29 of the UN Convention on the Rights of Persons with Disabilities and related instruments.
• Consult key stakeholders including ECZ, OPDs, government institutions and development partners.
• Analyse barriers affecting participation of persons with disabilities in electoral processes.
• Develop a draft Guidelines document.
• Facilitate validation of the draft guidelines.
• Incorporate stakeholder feedback.
• Produce the final Guidelines document.

4. Deliverables

The consultant shall provide:

1. Inception report and methodology.
2. Literature review summary.
3. Draft Guidelines for Disability Inclusion in Electoral Processes.
4. Stakeholder validation report.
5. Final Guidelines document.
6. Final consultancy report.

5. Duration

The consultancy will be undertaken over eight (8) working days between September and October 2026.

6. Qualifications and Experience

The consultant should possess:

• Advanced degree in law, governance, political science, public policy, disability studies, development studies or related field.
• At least five years of experience in governance, electoral processes, disability inclusion or public policy.
• Demonstrated experience developing policy frameworks, guidelines or strategic documents.
• Knowledge of Zambia's electoral system and disability rights framework.
• Excellent analytical and report-writing skills.

7. Reporting

The consultant will report to the Project Coordinator and work closely with ZAFOD and relevant stakeholders.

8. Application Requirements

Applicants should submit:

• Technical proposal.
• Financial proposal.
• Curriculum Vitae.
• Evidence of similar assignments completed.
• At least two professional references.

9. Submission

Applications should be submitted electronically to ZAFOD by the date indicated in the advertisement. Email applications to: info@zafod.org.zm Due Date: 19th June, 2026.