1. Overview of Zimbabwe Lawyers for Human Rights 1.1 Vision, Mission and Values Vision To be a world-class organisation that promotes a culture of human rights, equality and respect for constitutionalism and the rule of law for a just and democratic society in Zimbabwe. Mission To protect, promote and defend human rights through sustainable litigation, education and advocacy, which contributes positively to a culture of constitutionalism, respect for the rule of law, and tolerance and adherence to democratic values and practices. 1.2 Governance and Organisational Structure The Membership ZLHR is a membership organisation comprising around 170 lawyers with a proven track record in, and affinity for, human rights protection and promotion. Members are drawn from all provinces of Zimbabwe, and our numbers are steadily increasing. ZLHR members involve themselves in the activities of the organisation on the basis of their interest in human rights litigation, legal and rights-based education, research and advocacy. They donate part of their time and services pro bono to the organisation’s activities and programmes, and reinforce the work of the ZLHR secretariat to expand our reach throughout the country. 3 1.3 Board Members Beatrice Mtetwa – Chairperson Precious Chakasikwa – Vice Chairperson Selby Hwacha – Chair, Finance & Administration Committee David Tandiri – Manicaland representative Forward Gundu - Midlands representative Kossam Ncube – Matabeleland representative Sarudzayi Njerere – national representative Eric Matinenga – national representative Mordecai Mahlangu – national representative Andrew Makoni – national representative Irene Petras – ex officio The organisation’s secretariat operates from three offices located in Harare, Bulawayo and Mutare. ZLHR’s legal support extends to all ten provinces through the services of 14 full-time lawyers, and the support of its member lawyers in private practice. A total of 35 staff members constitute the secretariat that is responsible for planning and implementing the core activities of the organisation. Apart from lawyers, various ZLHR staff are drawn from the journalism, political science, social science and financial sectors. Governance ZLHR’s Board comprises 11 members – 10 senior lawyers in private practice and the Executive Director in her ex officio capacity. The membership elects the Board at the Annual General Meeting. The Board includes national representatives and regional representatives for Manicaland, Midlands and Matabeleland. The Board meets at least quarterly, and more often if necessary, to consider policy issues and oversee the strategic direction and financial and programmatic integrity of the organisation, and reports to the membership at the Annual General Meeting. The Finance and Administration Committee of the Board meets bi-monthly to monitor financial, programmatic, administrative, and policy compliance. It reports to the Board. ZLHR Annual Report 2015 The Secretariat