Job Summary
- Type: contract
- Location: Mbabane
- 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
Frequently Asked Questions
What qualifications do I need for a Senior Programme Officer – Energy / Finance Officer role at the SADC Secretariat?
Typically you need a bachelor's degree in energy, engineering, finance, accounting, or project management, with professional certifications like ACCA, CIMA, or PMP being an advantage. A master's degree and several years of regional programme or grants management experience strengthen your application. Familiarity with donor-funded projects and SADC protocols is highly valued.
What are the day-to-day responsibilities of this role?
You would manage energy and finance-related programmes, administer grants and contracts, monitor project budgets, and prepare financial and progress reports for stakeholders. The role also involves coordinating with member states, reviewing compliance with funding agreements, and supporting project implementation across the region. Regular reporting to donors and internal audit preparation are common tasks.
How should I apply, and what do employers in Eswatini look for?
Applications usually go through the SADC Secretariat's official recruitment portal or as directed in the vacancy announcement, requiring a CV, cover letter, and certified copies of qualifications. Employers look for demonstrated experience with international organisations, strong report-writing skills, and knowledge of regional development issues. Attention to detail and fluency in English are essential.
What benefits can I expect in this type of role?
Regional organisation roles typically include medical aid coverage, pension contributions, and paid annual leave. Some positions offer housing allowances, relocation support, or duty-station benefits depending on the contract terms. Always confirm the specific package in the offer letter, as benefits vary by employer and contract type.
What career progression paths exist from this position?
You could advance to Programme Manager, Head of Unit, or Director-level roles within regional bodies like SADC, or move into senior roles at NGOs, development banks, or government departments. Building expertise in energy policy and grants management opens doors across Southern Africa. Regional experience is highly transferable within the SADC bloc.
What is the work culture like for this kind of role in Eswatini?
Work culture tends to be formal and hierarchical, with respect for seniority and clear reporting lines expected. Professional dress, punctuality, and strong interpersonal relationships are important, and networking plays a significant role in career growth. As a regional post, you may also work with colleagues from multiple SADC countries, so cultural sensitivity is valued.