Job Description

Invitations for Expressions of Interest for a Consultant to Develop a Virtual Platform for Key Populations.
Title: Consultant to Develop a Virtual Platform for Key Populations
Deadline for Receipt of Expressions – 26 June 2024
Project Background:
Studies have consistently demonstrated that Key Populations (KPs) actively leverage social media to share information, connect with sexual partners, and access HIV-related content. Building on this insight, Zim-TTECH seeks to harness the potential of social media and social network strategy to reach and engage with younger KPs who remain underserved or hidden from mainstream media. As of January 2023, Zimbabwe's social media user base stood at 1.5 million, representing 9.1% of the total population, with a significant proportion (13.6%) of individuals aged 18-24 years. This data highlights the vast potential of virtual platforms in driving social influence, behaviour change, and positive outcomes in HIV interventions, particularly among KPs. By tapping into this potential, Zim-TTECH aims to bridge the gap in HIV services for KPs, promoting greater equity and inclusivity in HIV prevention and treatment.
Virtual platforms present a game-changing opportunity to connect Key Populations (KPs) with comprehensive HIV prevention services, encompassing testing, treatment, and support. By strategically utilizing social media and online networks, Zim-TTECH can deliver targeted interventions and resources to KPs, thereby enhancing awareness and uptake of HIV services. These virtual platforms also enable KPs to access peer support groups and online communities, fostering a safe and supportive environment for sharing experiences and accessing information. Moreover, virtual platforms can facilitate remote access to HIV services, including telemedicine and e-counselling, thereby expanding care for KPs in remote or hard-to-reach areas. By fully leveraging the potential of virtual platforms, HIV prevention programs can significantly narrow the gap in HIV services for KPs, promoting greater equity, inclusivity, and health outcomes in HIV prevention and treatment.
Scope of Work:
Design and Development of a Virtual Platform for Key Populations.

Objective:
Develop a fully functional virtual platform that meets the needs of Key Populations, providing a safe and supportive environment for accessing HIV-related information, resources, and services.
Responsibilities:
The consultant will perform the following tasks under the oversight of the Key Populations Specialist: -

1. Utilization of Needs Assessment Feedback:
Apply qualitative insights to inform the platform's design and development, leveraging feedback from key informants and the target population to deliver a user-centred platform.

2. Platform Design:
Create wireframes, mock-ups, and visual designs for the platform's user interface (UI) and user experience (UX) flow, ensuring an intuitive and engaging experience.
3. Feature Development:
Design and develop the platform's features and functionality, including:
- Infrastructure development
- Security measures
- Scalability features
- Core functionality development
- Unit testing and debugging

4. Testing and Quality Assurance:
Conduct functional and performance testing to ensure a seamless user experience, identifying and addressing any bugs or issues.

5. Deployment and Maintenance:
Deploy the platform and ensure ongoing maintenance and updates to ensure continued functionality and security.

6. Deliverables:
▪ A fully functional virtual platform for Key Populations
▪ A report detailing the platform's development process and outcomes
▪ A user manual and guidelines for platform maintenance and updates.

Duties and Responsibilities

TASKS AND TIMELINES.
Inception Report.
An inception report indicating the consultant's understanding of the assignment, the proposed methodology, expected results, timeframe, deliverables, etc.
Last week of June 2024.
▪ Week 1-2 (July 1-14): Platform design and wireframing
▪ Week 3-6 (July 15 - August 18): Feature development and testing
▪ Week 7-10 (August 19 - September 15): Quality assurance and deployment
▪ Week 11-12 (September 16-30): Maintenance and updates:
- A report detailing the platform's development process and outcomes
- A user manual and guidelines for platform maintenance and updates
Note: The timeline assumes a 12-week period, with specific tasks and deliverables spread across the weeks. The consultant is expected to complete the tasks within the specified timeframe.

Qualifications and Experience

Core Values:
Respect for Diversity
Integrity
Professionalism

Core Competencies:
Awareness and Sensitivity Regarding Gender and Sexuality Issues
Creative Problem Solving
Effective Communication
Inclusive Collaboration
Stakeholder Engagement

Requirements:
▪ At least 5 years of experience in developing virtual platforms and mobile apps, with strong technical expertise in app development
▪ Strong understanding of software development methodologies and technical architectures
▪ Excellent analytical, design, and development skills, with proficiency in relevant programming languages and technologies
▪ Ability to work independently and collaboratively with stakeholders, with strong communication and project management skills
▪ Sensitivity to the needs of Key Populations and a commitment to developing a platform that meets their unique needs and preferences.
▪ Minimum of a bachelor’s degree in Computer Science, Software Engineering, or a related field.
▪ Relevant certifications in app development, such as Certified Software Development Associate (CSDA) or Certified Professional in Software Engineering (CPSE).

How to Apply

Applicants should submit their application documents to [email protected] on or before 26 June 2024. They should indicate the level of experience in doing consultancy work of same or a similar nature, fee structure, qualifications and a draft workplan.

Only shortlisted applicants shall be contacted.

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