About Focus Africa: Focus Africa is a dynamic development organization dedicated to driving positive change in Africa’s key industries, including Agriculture, Agribusiness, Policy, and Strategic Management. We are committed to empowering businesses and governments to navigate complex challenges and unlock growth opportunities across the continent.
About the Project: In recent years, rural communities in Zambia have faced increasing vulnerability due to the rising frequency and intensity of climate hazards, such as droughts and floods. With over 95% of farmers relying on rainfed agriculture, the impacts of these climate challenges are particularly severe. The situation is compounded for women and people with disabilities who face heightened vulnerability. Recognizing the urgent need to address these challenges, Focus Africa proposes a comprehensive project aimed at improving the adaptive capacity of rural communities in Zambia, with a focus on Monze and Kalomo Districts.
Objective: The main objective of this project is to enhance the adaptive capacity of rural communities in dealing with climate impacts, not only by strengthening mitigation efforts but also by promoting sustainable practices that contribute to the restoration of degraded areas.
Specific Objectives:
1. To support communities in implementing targeted mitigation activities aimed at minimizing the impact of climate change.
2. To improve the adaptive capacity of communities in rural Zambia.
3. To improve the institutional capacity of government and traditional structures in climate mitigation and adaptation.
Description of Role: The Project Accountant will be based at the Lusaka office and will be responsible for overseeing project finances to ensure adherence to standard accounting procedures and ethical standards. They will ensure that fund utilization is in line with approved project budgets and organizational policies and procedures. Additionally, they will advise the project team on fund utilization and value for money.
Key responsibilities include:
1. Financial Oversight: Manage project finances, including budget preparation, expenditure tracking, and financial reporting, in accordance with organizational and donor requirements.
2. Adherence to Standards: Ensure compliance with standard accounting procedures, ethical standards, and regulatory requirements.
Budget Management: Monitor fund utilization to ensure alignment with approved project budgets and advise on any variances or deviations.
3. Policy Adherence: Ensure that fund utilization is in line with organization policies and procedures, identifying and addressing any discrepancies or non-compliance issues.
4. Financial Advice: Provide financial advice and guidance to the project team, including recommendations for optimizing fund utilization and achieving value for money.
5. Reporting: Prepare accurate and timely financial reports for internal management and external stakeholders, as required.
Qualifications
1. Full ZICA or Bachelor’s Degree in Finance or Accounting plus 3-5 years of relevaualifications:nt experience.
2. Member of the Zambia Institute of Chartered Accountants (ZICA).
3. Proficiency in accounting software and Microsoft Office Suite.
4. Strong analytical and problem-solving skills.
5. Excellent communication and interpersonal skills.
Application Requirements: Suitably qualified applicants are invited to submit their applications, including a cover letter and resume, to apply@jobsportal-career.com by 27 February 2024.
Duration: This is a 1-year contract position with the possibility of extension based on performance and business needs.
