CFAs: Advancing Women’s Participation in Governance, Peace and Security in Zimbabwe

Deadline: 20-Jan-2026

UN Women Zimbabwe invites grant applications to advance gender inclusiveness in governance, electoral processes, and peacebuilding. Four grants of USD 40,000–50,000 each will support civil society organizations to enhance women’s leadership, build institutional capacity, and create safer, more inclusive environments for women’s political participation.

Overview of the Program

The initiative aims to strengthen women’s leadership and advocacy across Zimbabwe, enabling women to play a more influential role in decision-making at national and local levels. The program focuses on:

• Enhancing the collective power of women’s movements and networks

• Raising awareness on governance and electoral reform at provincial and community levels

• Strengthening the leadership capacity of elected women leaders and aspiring candidates

• Facilitating evidence-based advocacy and consensus-building dialogues on gender equality, electoral law reform, and accountability

The initiative also prioritizes building the capacity of national institutions, justice sector actors, humanitarian agencies, and civil society organizations to implement Zimbabwe’s National Action Plan on UNSCR 1325, including gender-sensitive relief, recovery, and GBV referral pathways.

Who is Eligible

Eligible applicants are Civil Society Organisations (CSOs) that:

• Demonstrate strong technical and functional competencies in gender and development

• Are familiar with national and international gender equality frameworks

• Have experience in government engagement, training facilitation, and national consultative processes

• Can provide qualified personnel with at least three years’ relevant experience

• Have a proven track record in project monitoring, management, and measurable impact delivery

Each organization may apply for only one grant and must indicate the targeted application area.

Funding Details

• Number of grants: 4

• Grant amount: USD 40,000–50,000 per organization

• Project duration: March 2026 – November 2026

• Allocation:

  • Two grants for the first output (strengthening women’s decision-making capacities)

  • One grant for the second output (enhancing gender-responsive governance)

  • One grant for the third output (creating safer, inclusive political environments)

Key Focus Areas

1. Strengthening Women’s Decision-Making

   • Build capacities to participate in governance and political structures

   • Reinforce accountability and commitment to women’s participation

2. Gender-Responsive Governance

   • Support decision-makers to design and implement gender-sensitive laws, policies, and plans

   • Improve women’s political participation through inclusive governance mechanisms

3. Safer and Inclusive Political Environments

   • Equip stakeholders to foster safe, inclusive spaces for women’s leadership

   • Focus on peace and security mechanisms supporting women’s political advancement

How to Apply

Step 1: Identify Application Area

• Select the output area your organization will target

• Ensure alignment with the program objectives

Step 2: Prepare Application

• Demonstrate technical capacity, thematic experience, and measurable impact

• Include qualifications of personnel, past projects, and experience in gender advocacy and governance

Step 3: Submit Proposal

• Complete the UN Women grant application form before the stated deadline

• Submit a clear plan covering objectives, expected outcomes, and implementation strategy

Common Mistakes to Avoid

• Applying for more than one grant

• Choosing an application area not aligned with your organization’s expertise

• Lack of demonstrated experience in gender and governance initiatives

• Insufficient evidence of organizational capacity or past impact

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

1. Who can apply?
Civil Society Organizations with proven experience in gender advocacy, governance, and women’s leadership in Zimbabwe.

2. How many grants are available?
Four grants, each valued at USD 40,000–50,000.

3. What is the project duration?
Projects run from March 2026 to November 2026.

4. Can an organization apply for multiple grants?
No, each organization may apply for only one grant.

5. What thematic areas are prioritized?
Women’s decision-making capacities, gender-responsive governance, and safer, inclusive political environments.

6. Are qualifications of personnel required?
Yes, organizations must demonstrate qualified staff with at least three years of relevant experience.

7. What is the expected impact?
Strengthened women’s leadership, increased participation in governance, and safer, more inclusive political environments for women.

Conclusion

UN Women Zimbabwe’s grant initiative strengthens women’s leadership and advocacy, promoting inclusive governance, electoral reform, and peace processes. By supporting civil society organizations with proven expertise, the program seeks measurable systemic change, enabling women in all their diversity to take a more influential role in decision-making and governance in Zimbabwe.

For more information, visit UN Women.