April 10, 2025 – SADC Secretariat invites applications for Emergency Response Team Membership: Join the Fight Against Disasters.
In a significant step towards bolstering disaster response efforts across Southern Africa, the SADC Secretariat, through its Disaster Risk Reduction Unit and the SADC Humanitarian and Emergency Operations Centre (SHOC), has announced a call for applications to join the SADC Emergency Response Team (ERT).
This initiative is in collaboration with the United Nations Office for the Coordination of Humanitarian Affairs (OCHA) and the International Federation of Red Cross and Red Crescent Societies (IFRC), and is also supported by the European Union under the Disaster Risk Management Strengthening in SADC (DRMSS) Project.
Zimbabwean nationals can apply for this initiative which is aimed at creating a swift and agile response mechanism during humanitarian crises. Read our write-up below and apply today!
Objectives of the SADC Emergency Response Team
The SADC ERT is designed to be a rapidly deployable response team that significantly enhances the humanitarian initiatives of SADC Member States facing both sudden and slow-onset disasters.
The primary objective of the ERT is to provide lifesaving and life-sustaining support to affected regions.
The team will be composed of specialists from a variety of fields, each poised to deliver targeted disaster responses tailored to the unique needs of impacted areas, as outlined in the qualifications detailed below.
Member States Eligible for Application
The following SADC member states are eligible to send applicants:
- Angola
- Eswatini
- Mauritius
- South Africa
- Botswana
- Comoros
- Democratic Republic of Congo
- Lesotho
- Madagascar
- Malawi
- Mozambique
- Namibia
- Seychelles
- United Republic of Tanzania
- Zambia
- Zimbabwe
Who Should Apply?
The SADC ERT is seeking qualified professionals across various disciplines to fulfill specific roles.
Key positions include:
- Team Leader: Oversee the ERT operations and coordinate with various stakeholders.
- Deputy Team Leader: Assist the team leader in daily management and ensure safety and security planning.
- Disaster Management Coordinator: Liaise with various authorities and manage information needs.
- Operations Manager: Handle logistics and administrative support.
- Trauma Counsellor: Provide psychosocial support to survivors and team members.
Membership Information: What You Need to Know
Voluntary Participation: Membership in the SADC ERT is a voluntary commitment and does not indicate a permanent or salaried role within the organization.
Deployment During Disasters: Members will be called upon during disaster events, stepping in as a critical first line of response to humanitarian emergencies.
Training Opportunities: All members will undergo training based on the adapted United Nations Disaster Assessment and Coordination (UNDAC) curriculum, ensuring they are well-equipped to handle challenges during deployment.
Financial Provisions: The SADC Secretariat will cover all costs associated with travel and subsistence during deployments, alleviating financial burdens for volunteers.
Application Process: How to Apply
Qualified candidates eager to contribute their expertise to humanitarian efforts can express their interest by completing the application form found on the links below this page.
Key details for submitting your application include:
- Deadline: All applications must be submitted by 25 April 2025. Late submissions will not be considered.
- Endorsement Requirement: Applications must be endorsed by the appropriate authorities as specified in Annex 2 to be eligible for consideration. This step is crucial to ensure that applications meet the necessary institutional endorsements.
- Submission Procedure: Applications should be sent directly to Ms. Nana Dlamini at ndlamini@sadc.int and also copied to Dr. Pios Ncube at pncube@sadc.int. Ensure that your application meets all outlined requirements to avoid disqualification.
ApplyNOW’s Tips for Application Success
- Review the Requirements Thoroughly: Before applying, carefully read the qualifications and requirements outlined in Annex 1. This understanding will help you tailor your application effectively.
- Secure Proper Endorsements Early: Reach out to the relevant authorities at your organization early in the process to obtain necessary endorsements, preventing last-minute complications.
- Highlight Relevant Experience: When completing your application, ensure to detail your relevant experience and qualifications that align with the needs of the SADC ERT.
- Double-Check Submission Guidelines: Make sure to follow all instructions regarding the submission process to avoid any technical errors or omissions.
- Prepare for Training: If selected, be ready to engage fully in the training sessions based on the UNDAC curriculum to maximize your effectiveness as a team member.
Join Us in Making a Difference!
By becoming part of the SADC Emergency Response Team, you will play an invaluable role in ensuring communities affected by disasters receive the critical support they need.
This opportunity not only allows for professional growth but also enables you to contribute significantly to humanitarian efforts in the Southern African region.
For more information and to access the application form, please refer to the links below.
Documents
| Attachment | Size |
|---|---|
| SADC ERT -Application form FR – 2025_0.pdf | 283.84 KB |
| SADC ERT_Application form _ PT 2025_0.pdf | 167.16 KB |
| SADC ERT-Selection criteria -FR-2025_0.pdf | 258.94 KB |
| ERT Selection Criteria – PT – 2025_0.pdf | 235.26 KB |
| ERT – Selection criteria 2025_1.pdf | 217.79 KB |
| SADC ERT – Application form 2025_0.pdf | 167.3 KB |
and take the first step towards making a tangible impact in the lives of those affected by disasters. Your expertise and commitment could help save lives. Apply today!