Consultancy

Job description

TERMS OF REFERENCE FOR BARRIER ANALYSIS STUDY AIMED AT

UNDERSTANDING THE UNDERLYING FACTORS THAT HINDER OR FACILITATE

WOMEN’S PARTICIPATION IN LEADERSHIP ROLES WITHIN THE IMPLEMENTATION

OF WATER, SANITATION, AND HYGIENE (WASH) AND REPRODUCTIVE, MATERNAL,

NEONATAL, AND CHILD HEALTH (RMNCH) SERVICES.

1. BACKGROUND

The Young Women Christian Association (YWCA) is a Christian, membership-based,

non-partisan, non-governmental organization (NGO) dedicated to empowering

communities especially women, youth, and children to contribute to the attainment of

a just society through a rights-based approach. Our vision is to achieve a safe and

gender-sensitive Zambia with equitable opportunities for women, youth, and children.

In partnership with WaterAid Zambia, and with funding from Global Affairs Canada,

YWCA has commenced the implementation of the Strengthening Wholistic and

Inclusive Systems for Health (SWISH) through Integration, Prevention and Women’s

Empowerment Project. This ambitious seven-year initiative is being implemented in

Liberia, Pakistan, and Zambia, and aims to reduce preventable diseases and deaths

by supporting local governments and partners to integrate Maternal, Neonatal, and

Child Health (MNCH) and Water, Sanitation, and Hygiene (WASH) services and

practices within health systems.

The project has a strong learning component and is structured around three key

outcomes:

(1) Increase the use of gender responsive, quality MNCH services and preventive

health practices by women, men and adolescents within targeted primary healthcare

settings.

(2) Increase leadership and voice by women and adolescents in inclusive, gender

responsive, quality MNCH services at primary health and community levels.

and (3) Improve multisectoral governance and integration of WASH in health systems

at all levels, including evidence-informed program planning, budgeting, monitoring,

and policy development.

12. PURPOSE OF THE STUDY

To strengthen the effective implementation of the SWISH project, YWCA seeks to

undertake a comprehensive barrier analysis study aimed at understanding the

underlying factors that hinder or facilitate the participation of women (including women

with disabilities and other socially marginalised identities) in leadership roles in the

implementation of Water, Sanitation and Hygiene (WASH) and Reproductive,

Maternal, Neonatal, and Child Health (RMNCH) services.

The study will generate context-specific evidence from Monze and Kazungula districts

in Southern Province to:

• Identify socio-cultural, institutional, political, and economic barriers that limit

women’s participation, leadership and decision-making power in WASH and

RMNCH implementation structures at various levels.

• Prioritize these barriers using a responsive assessment scale.

• Explore the roles and perceptions of key actors, including healthcare staff,

social sector representatives, and local government institutions, toward women

in leadership.

• Highlight existing opportunities, enabling factors, and best practices that can be

leveraged to foster inclusive and gender-responsive leadership.

3. OVERALL STUDY OBJECTIVE:

To assess and document the barriers and enablers to women’s effective participation

in leadership in WASH and RMNCH programs and propose /co-create evidence-

based strategies for enhancing gender-inclusive leadership.

3.1 Specific Objectives

1. Assess perceptions, attitudes, and social norms that influence women’s

participation and leadership within the WASH and RMNCH sectors.

2. Identify institutional practices and policies that either hinder or promote women’s

leadership.

3. Analyse the roles and influence of healthcare staff, social institutions, and local

government in shaping women’s leadership opportunities.

4. Provide evidence-based policy and programmatic recommendations aimed at

enhancing gender equity and promoting women’s leadership within the sectors.

24. SCOPE OF THE STUDY

The study will be conducted in Monze and Kazungula districts, focusing on selected

health facilities actively implementing WASH and RMNCH programs. Key

stakeholders to be engaged include:

• Healthcare providers (e.g., EHTs, nurses, midwives, facility in-charges)

• Ward Development Committees (WDCs)

• Community Health Volunteers (CHVs)

• Civil Society Organizations (CSOs)

• Representatives from line ministries (e.g., Ministry of Water and Natural

Resources, Ministry of Local Government, Ministry of Health, Ministry of

Gender and Youth)

• Women in leadership and grassroots positions

• Women in the community (through women’s groups at local level.

• Selected persons living with disabilities

• Selected youth and adolescents

The scope also includes a review of existing policies, institutional frameworks, local

participation mechanisms, and leadership structures relevant to WASH and RMNCH.

5. RESEARCH METHODOLOGY

The barrier analysis will employ a mixed-methods approach, combining qualitative and

quantitative techniques to identify the determinants of behaviour change and the

barriers and enablers to women’s leadership in WASH and RMNCH services. This

approach is designed to generate actionable insights from the target audience and is

often referred to as a rapid assessment tool in development and humanitarian

contexts.

5.1 Study Design

The study will adopt a cross-sectional mixed-methods approach, integrating both

quantitative and qualitative data collection techniques to provide a comprehensive

understanding of the barriers and enablers to women’s leadership in WASH (Water,

Sanitation, and Hygiene) and RMNCH (Reproductive, Maternal, Newborn, and Child

Health) services. The methodology will incorporate gender-transformative and

inclusive practices to ensure the active and safe participation of women, youth, and

marginalized groups. Grounded in a rights-based and feminist analysis framework, the

design aligns with YWCA’s core values of justice, equality, and empowerment.

Emphasis will be placed on community ownership, stakeholder engagement, and the

use of local knowledge to foster sustainable and equitable outcomes.

5.2 Study Locations

3The research will be conducted in Monze and Kazungula districts in Southern

Province, Zambia. The study sites within each district will include a diverse range of

rural health facilities, primary health care settings, andcommunity governance

structures such as Ward Development Committees (WDCs). Monze and Kazungula

provide a unique opportunity to explore how cultural norms, service delivery structures,

and governance systems interact or influence gender roles and leadership

participation across different socio-economic and geographic contexts.

5.3 Data Collection Methods

To ensure comprehensive coverage of perspectives and experiences, the consultant

will use the following data collection methods:

a. Desk Review

A systematic desk review will be conducted to analyse existing national policies,

district health strategies, program documents, and relevant literature. This will provide

contextual understanding, highlight existing gaps, and inform the development of field

research tools. The review will cover national gender policy frameworks, strategic

plans related to WASH (Water, Sanitation, and Hygiene) and RMNCH (Reproductive,

Maternal, Newborn, and Child Health), as well as community development guidelines

and other relevant sectoral documents.

b. Key Informant Interviews (KIIs).

Semi-structured interviews will be conducted with a diverse range of stakeholders to

gather insights into institutional practices, perceptions of women’s leadership, and

structural enablers or barriers. Key informants will include:

• Health facility in-charges, Environmental Health Technologists (EHTs),

midwives, nurses, and other frontline healthcare workers

• Local government officials and Ward Councillors

• Representatives from the Ministries of Health, Local Government, Water, and

Gender

• Civil Society Organization (CSO) representatives from the two target districts

• Members of the District Gender Sub-Committee

• WASH committee members

• Traditional and religious leaders

These interviews will contribute to a deeper understanding of the socio-political and

institutional dynamics influencing women’s leadership in WASH and RMNCH services.

c. Focus Group Discussions (FGDs)

Focus Group Discussions will be conducted to facilitate open, inclusive, and safe

spaces for participants to share their experiences and perspectives. FGDs will target:

• Women leaders (both formal and informal)

• Ward Development Committees (WDCs)

• Community Health Volunteers (CHVs)

4• WASH Committee members

• Female community members

• Male community members

• Adolescent girls and boys

Participatory methods such as social mapping, leadership pathway analysis, and role-

playing will be employed to explore gender norms, power relations, and social

dynamics within the community. These discussions will help uncover community-level

insights into barriers and opportunities for women’s leadership in WASH and RMNCH

services.

d. Structured Household and Community Surveys

Quantitative data will be collected through structured questionnaires administered to:

• Women participating in WASH and RMNCH programs

• Health service users and frontline staff

• Community members, disaggregated by age, sex, and role

This approach aims to quantify levels of awareness, representation, and engagement

of women in leadership roles within WASH and RMNCH services. It will also identify

influencing factors such as educational attainment, access to information, and

decision-making autonomy, providing a data-driven foundation for understanding

gender dynamics at the household and community levels.

e. Case Studies

A minimum of four in-depth case studies will be documented, focusing on women in

leadership roles within WASH and RMNCH services. These case studies will highlight

best practices, personal trajectories, and transformative experiences that demonstrate

the impact of women’s leadership at various levels. In addition to showcasing lived

realities, the case studies will serve as motivational resources and evidence-based

tools to inform policy development, advocacy efforts, and programmatic learning.

5.4 Sampling Strategy

A combination of purposive, stratified, and snowball sampling techniques will be

employed to ensure a diverse and representative sample:

• Purposive sampling will be used to identify key informants based on their roles,

influence, or relevant experience in WASH and RMNCH services.

• Stratified sampling will ensure balanced representation across gender, age

groups, geographic locations (rural and urban), and stakeholder categories.

• Snowball sampling may be applied to reach hidden or less visible women

leaders and grassroots actors who may not be easily identified through formal

channels.

Sample sizes will be determined based on the population of program beneficiaries and

stakeholders engaged in SWISH activities in Monze and Kazungula districts, ensuring

statistical relevance and contextual appropriateness.

55.5 Data Analysis

a. Qualitative data will be transcribed, coded, and analysed thematically using

a gender lens. Manual coding or qualitative analysis software such as NVivo will be

used to identify recurring themes and patterns related to barriers and enablers of

women’s leadership in WASH and RMNCH.

b. Quantitative data will be analysed using statistical tools such as SPSS or

Excel. Descriptive statistics will summarize key variables, while inferential statistics

will be used to explore relationships, trends, and variations across different respondent

groups and geographic locations.

c. Triangulation will be employed to validate findings by comparing insights

across qualitative and quantitative data sources, as well as across different

respondent categories, enhancing the credibility and robustness of the results.

5. ETHICAL CONSIDERATIONS AND GENDER SENSITIVITY

The study will adhere to rigorous ethical standards to ensure the protection, dignity,

and rights of all participants. Key measures include:

Informed Consent: All participants will provide informed consent, with processes

adapted to cultural contexts. Consent may be obtained verbally or in writing,

depending on participant preference and literacy levels.

Confidentiality and Anonymity: Participant identities and responses will be kept

confidential, and data will be anonymized during analysis and reporting.

Gender Sensitivity and Safe Spaces: Gender-sensitive protocols will be implemented,

particularly during FGDs and interviews involving women and adolescents. Efforts will

be made to create safe, respectful, and inclusive environments that encourage open

dialogue.

Referral mechanisms will be utilised (so ie if someone declares a need for help or

reveals they are in an unsafe position, then we know who to refer them to. Also, that

those doing the interviews/ FGDs know about when any compulsory reporting will be

needed – ie if there is any declaration of harm to children etc

Ethical Clearance: Approval will be sought from a relevant institutional ethics body,

such as the National Research Ethics Committee, prior to data collection.

6. EXPECTED OUTPUTS

a. Inception Report detailing the methodology, work plan, and timelines.

b. Research Clearance Documentation from relevant authorities (e.g.,

Research Ethics Committee).

c. Validated Data Collection and Analysis Tools, including questionnaires,

interview guides, and FGD protocols.

d. Training Report for enumerators, including supervision and quality

assurance mechanisms.

6e. Cleaned and Analysed Dataset, disaggregated by relevant variables (e.g.,

gender, age, location).

f. g. Zero Draft Report summarizing preliminary findings and emerging themes.

Presentation of Findings to YWCA, WaterAid, and key stakeholders.

h. Stakeholder Validation Meeting Report, including feedback and

recommendations.

i. Final Assessment Report, incorporating validated findings, conclusions, and

recommendations.

j. Gender-Transformative Leadership Promotion Toolkit (if within scope and

agreed upon).

k. Submission of Source Documents (e.g., transcripts, survey data, consent

forms) to YWCA for archiving.

77. TIMELINE

No

Days Activity Key Tasks / Deliverables 2 days

The Inception

Phase & Desk

Review

• The consultant to conduct an inception meeting with

YWCA, WaterAid, and other partners (MoH, Gender

division etc).

• Review existing literature, policies, gender

frameworks, and district-level documents on WASH &

RMNCH.

• Draft and submit the Inception Report with detailed

methodology and work plan.

2 Days

Integration of

/Tool Design &

Validation

• Develop/integrate quantitative (survey) and qualitative

(KII/FGD guides) tools – Check with WaterAid tools.

• Submit tools for YWCA and WaterAid for validation.

• Finalize tools based on feedback.

1 Day

Ethical

Clearance &

Local

Approvals

• Submit research tools and protocols for Research

Ethics Committee approval.

• Obtain letters of introduction/authorization from MoH –

District Health Offices (Monze & Kazungula).

1 Day

Recruitment &

Training of

Enumerators

• Identify and recruit qualified enumerators (preferably

local).

• Conduct a one-day training session on research ethics,

gender sensitivity, data collection methods, and the

use of tools (paper or digital).

1 Day Pre-testing of

Tools (Pilot)

• Conduct pilot testing in one selected site (outside the

main study sites). Refine tools based on pre-test

results.

6 Days

Field Data

Collection

(Monze &

Kazungula),

including data

cleaning and

entry

• Implement data collection activities including: – Key

Informant Interviews (KII), Focus Group Discussions

(FGDs), Structured Surveys, and Case Studies.

• Transcribe qualitative data (KIIs/FGDs) and begin

thematic coding for qualitative analysis.

2 Days Data Analysis &

Triangulation

• Conduct quantitative analysis (descriptive statistics).

• Analyse qualitative data to identify themes on

barriers/enablers.

• Triangulate findings from different sources.

2 Days

Draft Report

Preparation

(Zero Draft)

• Prepare a Zero-Draft Report summarizing the

methodology, main findings, and emerging

recommendations.

• Submit to YWCA and WaterAid for review.

1 Day

Presentation &

Validation

Workshop

• Present preliminary findings to YWCA, WaterAid,

MOH, and district stakeholders.

• Collect feedback, verify data interpretations, and refine

conclusions to ensure accuracy and validity.

• Validate recommendations for practical

implementation.

2 Day

Finalization &

Submission of

final report and

other

Deliverables

• Integrate feedback and finalize the Comprehensive

Final Report to YWCA and WaterAid.

• Submit cleaned datasets, case studies, and supporting

materials.

• Share dissemination materials (slides, visuals,

summary briefs).

8

Responsible

Person(s)

Consultant

Consultant &

WaterAid and

YWCA

Consultant

Consultant &

YWCA

Consultant &

Enumerators

Consultant,

Enumerators,

Supervisors

Consultant &

Data Analyst

Consultant

Consultant,

YWCA, and

Stakeholders

Consultant &

YWCA8. DISSEMINATION OF FINDINGS

The Consultant(s) will disseminate the study findings to YWCA, WaterAid, Ministry of

Health (MOH), District Health Offices, Village and District WASH Committees, and

other relevant stakeholders. Dissemination will be conducted through:

• A stakeholder meeting or workshop for presentation and validation of findings

• A written report summarizing key insights and recommendations

• An oral presentation highlighting major findings and implications

• Visual materials (e.g., infographics, charts, and summary slides) to enhance

understanding

• Digital sharing of all dissemination materials via email and other agreed

platforms

This multi-format approach ensures accessibility, promotes stakeholder engagement,

and supports evidence-based decision-making.

9. INSTRUCTIONAL ARRANGEMENT

All deliverables will be subject to review and approval by YWCA and WaterAid Zambia.

The consultant or consulting firm will be responsible for managing and financing all

aspects of the assignment, including professional fees, fieldwork expenses, and any

logistical requirements necessary to complete the consultancy. This includes

coordination of data collection activities, stakeholder engagements, and submission

of all required documentation and reports in line with the agreed work plan and

timelines.

10. APPLICATION REQUIREMENTS

Interested consultants or consultancy firms are required to submit a complete

application that includes the following components. All criteria listed below are

mandatory and must be met for the application to be considered eligible.

No. Requirement Details

1 Technical Proposal

A detailed technical proposal demonstrating a clear understanding of

the assignment. This should include the proposed methodology,

implementation approach, work plan, and timelines for delivery.

2 Financial Proposal

A clearly itemized financial proposal quoted in Zambian Kwacha

(ZMW), outlining budget breakdown by deliverables, person-days, or

hours. Total cost inclusive of all applicable taxes, Withholding Tax

(WHT) must be included in the total cost (WHT applicable at 15% for

local consultants)

3 Curriculum Vitae (CVs)

CVs of all proposed consultant(s) highlighting relevant academic

qualifications and demonstrated experience in WASH. Preferred

qualifications include Health Economics, Public Health, Water

Engineering, Development Studies, Social Work, or related fields. If a

team is proposed, clearly define individual roles and responsibilities.

94 Professional References

Contact details for a minimum of three (3) professional references from

clients for whom similar work has been conducted, ideally within the

last five years.

5 Proof of Registration and

Tax Compliance

Consultancy Firms must submit: Certificate of Registration, TPIN, and

a valid Tax Clearance Certificate. Individual Consultants must submit:

TPIN and a valid Tax Clearance Certificate of the lead consultant.

6 Samples of Previous

Work

A minimum of three (3) samples of previous assignments related to

WASH programming or evaluations conducted in the past five years.

Samples should reflect the quality and relevance of previous work.

Note: All cost components must be clearly itemized and explained. This includes any

outsourced or subcontracted elements of the work. Incomplete submissions will not

be considered.

11. Application deadline:

Interested consultants should submit a Technical and Financial proposal (maximum

20 pages) by 17:00 CAT on Monday 3rd November 2025, with CVs of the core team

and sample of their work attached. Proposals should be sent to: The Executive

Director, P.O. Box 50015, Plot 7391, Nationalist Road, Lusaka, and Email to:

executivedirector@ywcazambia.org and copy the Programs manager:

programmes.manager@ywcazambia.org