CALL FOR APPLICATIONS
Consultancy:
Baseline and Follow-up Dissemination and Trainings on Journalist Safety and Protection Mechanisms
Organization: Sesotho Media and Development (SM&D)
Project: Enhancing Freedom of Expression and Press Freedom in Lesotho
Location: Maseru, Lesotho
Duration: October 2025 – August 2026 (Three phases)
Application Deadline: 06 November 2025
1. BACKGROUND
About Sesotho Media and Development (SM&D)
Sesotho Media and Development (SM&D) is a non-governmental organization based in Maseru, Lesotho, focusing on promoting film and education while leveraging the power of media to initiate dialogue, challenge social norms, and disseminate information supporting human rights.
Since 2011, SM&D has hosted the Lesotho Film Festival, providing a platform for young Basotho filmmakers to showcase their work. SM&D’s services include mobile cinema, film facilitator training, and film library development.
SM&D’s vision is to be a leading organization that uses film and media to engage marginalized audiences on social issues, foster dialogue, and promote sustainable development in Lesotho.
About the Funder
This project is supported by the Commonwealth Foundation (CF), an intergovernmental organization established in 1966 to support participatory governance among 49 member states. The Foundation promotes people’s engagement in democracy and development by helping civil society organizations grow and influence policy processes.
2. PROJECT CONTEXT
SM&D is implementing a project aimed at improving protection of freedom of expression and press freedom in Lesotho by 2030. The initiative enhances journalist safety, advocates for legal reforms (including review of the Cyber Security Bill and Access to Information Bill), and strengthens mechanisms that protect media practitioners from abuse or threats.
The project also seeks to create a safer, more enabling environment for independent journalism through collaboration between media, civil society, and security institutions.
3. OBJECTIVES OF THE CONSULTANCY
The consultancy aims to:
- Phase 1: Conduct baseline data collection to assess journalist safety, existing protection mechanisms, and key threats faced by media practitioners in Lesotho.
- Phase 2: Design and facilitate four safety and risk assessment training sessions for 400 journalists (100 per session) across print, broadcast, and freelance media, as well as media leaders.
- Phase 3: Lead a national-level stakeholder meeting to mobilize and formalize a 12-member Media Protection and Accountability Task Force (MPATF).
4. CONSULTANT QUALIFICATIONS AND REQUIREMENTS
Mandatory Requirements
- Must be based in Lesotho (individual consultant only – no firms or organizations)
- Law degree (LLB or equivalent) with knowledge of constitutional, human rights, and/or media law
- Minimum 5 years’ experience in media freedom, journalist safety, or human rights advocacy
- Proven experience in training facilitation and research (baseline studies or needs assessments)
- Excellent analytical, report writing, and stakeholder engagement skills
- Familiarity with Lesotho’s media landscape and security institutions
Desirable Qualifications
- Experience working with media organizations or civil society
- Knowledge of Sesotho language
- Experience in adult learning methodologies and multi-stakeholder coordination
5. CONSULTANT RESPONSIBILITIES
The consultant will:
- Work closely with SM&D’s Multimedia Coordinator, M&E Officer, and Programs Officer
- Coordinate with partners including MISA Lesotho, LCA, and the Ministry of Communications
- Plan, facilitate, and report on training and stakeholder sessions
- Ensure high ethical standards, quality control, and confidentiality
- Incorporate feedback from SM&D and partners into deliverables
6. TIMEFRAME AND LEVEL OF EFFORT
Total Duration: 11 months (October 2025 – August 2026)
Estimated Working Days: Approximately 80 working days
- Phase 1: 25 days (Oct – Nov 2025)
- Phase 2: 40 days (Dec 2025 – Jun 2026)
- Phase 3: 15 days (Apr – Aug 2026)
7. REPORTING AND SUPERVISION
The consultant will report to SM&D’s Multimedia Coordinator (Phases 1 & 2) and Senior Lead Facilitator (Phase 3), supported by the Programs and M&E Officers.
Regular meetings will ensure progress alignment with project goals.
8. PAYMENT TERMS
Payment will be made upon satisfactory completion of deliverables:
- Phase 1: 30% after submission and approval of the Baseline Report
- Phase 2: 50% after completion of all four training sessions and reports
- Phase 3: 20% after final stakeholder meeting and final report submission
9. APPLICATION REQUIREMENTS
Applicants must submit:
- Cover Letter (max 2 pages) – describing suitability for the consultancy
- Detailed CV – with three professional references
- Technical Proposal (max 5 pages) – outlining:
- Understanding of the assignment
- Methodology and timeline for each phase
- Work plan with milestones
- Financial Proposal – indicating daily rate and total anticipated costs
- Proof of Lesotho Residency (ID or residence permit)
- Academic Certificates (Law degree)
- Sample of Previous Work (research report or training manual)
10. EVALUATION CRITERIA
Applications will be evaluated based on:
- Technical competence: 40%
- Relevant experience: 30%
- Proposed methodology & work plan: 20%
- Financial proposal: 10%
11. SUBMISSION INSTRUCTIONS
Submit applications electronically to:
📧 [email protected]
Subject Line: Application – Baseline and Dissemination Consultancy
🕓 Deadline: 06 November 2025
12. CONTACT INFORMATION
For inquiries, contact:
Sesotho Media and Development (SM&D)
📍 Contact Person: Dr. Lelokoana Lesia
📧 Email: [email protected]
📞 Phone: +266 2232 1446
SM&D is an equal opportunity organization and strongly encourages applications from qualified women and persons with disabilities.