Job Summary
- Type: contract
- Location: Gaborone
- Category: Programme Management
- Closing Date: 2026-09-11
Key Responsibilities
- Senior Programme Officer-Energy (Job Grade 4)
- Finance Officer – Grants/Contracts and Projects (Job Grade 6)
Requirements
- Are 52 years old or younger. This requirement is based on the Organisation’s need to recruit staff who can serve for a reasonable period of time before reaching the mandatory retirement age of 60 years.
- The SADC recruitment age limit for internal candidates shall be 56 years to remedy turnover, retain institutional memory and ensure business continuity.
- Are from the following eligible Member States: Angola, Botswana, Eswatini, Lesotho, Madagascar, Malawi, Mauritius, Mozambique, Namibia, Seychelles, South Africa, United Republic of Tanzania, Zambia and Zimbabwe.
Salary
Job Grade 4: US$ 93,097.00 – 99,643.00 per annum; Job Grade 6: US$ 72,598.00 – 77,084.20 per annum
How to Apply
About the Company
The SADC Secretariat operates as the administrative and executive arm of the Southern African Development Community (SADC), centrally headquartered in Gaborone, Botswana. From this strategic location, it facilitates the implementation and coordination of SADC's regional integration agenda across 16 Member States. Its mandate encompasses strategic planning, resource mobilisation, and monitoring the execution of diverse programmes fostering sustainable development, peace, and security throughout Southern Africa. The Secretariat plays a crucial role in advancing economic growth, infrastructure development, and social progress for the region, all guided from its base in Botswana.
Driving Southern African regional integration and development from its Gaborone HQ.
Frequently Asked Questions
What qualifications do I need to become a Senior Programme Officer (Energy) or Finance Officer at the SADC Secretariat?
Typically, a Bachelor's degree in Energy, Engineering, Economics, Accounting, or Finance is required, with a Master's degree often preferred for senior roles. Professional certifications such as ACCA, CIMA, or CPA Botswana strengthen applications for finance-focused positions. Relevant experience in programme management, grants administration, or regional development projects is usually essential.
What are the typical day-to-day responsibilities of this role?
The role involves managing energy and finance-related programmes across SADC member states, including monitoring project implementation, administering grants and contracts, and preparing financial reports. You would also coordinate with national governments, development partners, and stakeholders, and support budget planning and compliance. Regular travel within the region for project supervision and meetings is common.
What is the work culture like at international organisations based in Gaborone?
Work culture at organisations like the SADC Secretariat in Gaborone tends to be formal and multicultural, with English as the primary working language. Punctuality, professionalism, and strong report-writing skills are highly valued. Expect a structured environment with clear hierarchies, but also exposure to diverse regional perspectives.
What career progression can I expect from this role?
Successful officers can progress to Principal Programme Officer, Head of Division, or Director-level roles within the Secretariat over time. Alternatively, experience with a regional body opens doors to similar positions at the African Union, UN agencies, or international NGOs. Building expertise in energy policy or donor-funded grant management significantly boosts advancement prospects.
What benefits are typically offered for this type of position?
International organisation roles usually include medical aid coverage, pension contributions, and generous annual leave compared to local private-sector norms. Additional benefits may include housing allowances, education support for dependants, and tax-free or tax-advantaged salary components depending on your nationality and contract type. Confirm specifics during the offer stage as packages vary by contract category.
How do I apply, and what do employers look for in candidates?
Applications are typically submitted through the SADC Secretariat's official website or advertised vacancy portals, requiring a CV, cover letter, certified qualifications, and sometimes completed application forms. Employers look for demonstrated regional experience, strong analytical and financial reporting skills, and familiarity with donor funding procedures. Tailor your application to show measurable achievements in programme or grants management.