Consultancy Opportunity: Water Feasibility Study

Consultancy Opportunity: Sinamatella Water Feasibility Study, WWF Zimbabwe WWF Zimbabwe invites expressions of interest for a consultancy to conduct a comprehensive water feasibility study at Sinamatella, located within Hwange National Park. This consultancy aims to assess current water sources, evaluate water quality, and provide actionable recommendations for borehole drilling and treatment solutions.

1. Background

Sinamatella, located within Hwange National Park, faces persistent challenges in water provision, particularly due to limited infrastructure, hard water sources, and seasonal variability. This consultancy seeks to assess current water sources, evaluate water quality (including hardness), conduct a water survey, and provide recommendations for borehole drilling and treatment solutions.

2. Objectives

• Assess the status of water provision infrastructure and sources in Sinamatella.
• Conduct a comprehensive water survey to identify potential new water sources.
• Evaluate the chemical composition and hardness of existing and potential water sources.
• Recommend appropriate hard water treatment technologies.
• Provide technical guidance on borehole sitting and drilling feasibility.

3. Scope of Work

The consultant will:

1. Conduct a situational analysis of existing water infrastructure (boreholes, pumps, tanks, etc.).
2. Map and characterize all current and potential water sources (surface and groundwater).
3. Undertake a hydrogeological survey to identify suitable sites for new boreholes.
4. Test water samples for hardness and other relevant parameters (e.g., calcium, magnesium, iron).
5. Review existing literature and case studies on hard water treatment in similar ecological contexts.
6. Engage stakeholders (ZimParks, local communities, NGOs) to understand water use patterns and challenges.
7. Recommend appropriate water treatment options, including:

• Filtration systems
• Ion exchange
• Reverse osmosis
• Lime softening
• Solar-powered treatment units

1. Provide costings as well as a cost-benefit analysis of each recommended option.
2. Develop a borehole drilling plan, including:

• Recommended drilling locations
• Estimated depths
• Infrastructure requirements
• Environmental considerations

1. Develop an implementation roadmap for water provision and treatment.

4. Deliverables

The consultancy will span 15 calendar days, broken down as follows:

• Days 1–2: Site assessment and document review.
• Days 3-6: Hydrogeological and technical assessment.
• Days 7–10: Costing and feasibility analysis.
• Day 11: Presentation to stakeholders
• Days 12–15: Final Report with Recommendations and Implementation Plan (8 Days)

5. Qualifications and Experience

• Degree in Hydrogeology, Water Engineering, Environmental Science, or related field.
• 5 years' experience in rural water supply systems, hydrogeological surveys, and water quality analysis.
• Familiarity with hard water treatment technologies.
• Experience working in conservation or remote field settings is an advantage.

6. Application Requirements

Interested consultants should submit:

• A technical proposal outlining methodology and work plan.
• A financial proposal.
• CV and a minimum of three references including two from similar assignments.

7. Reporting and communication

• The consultant will report directly to the WWF Zimbabwe Country Coordinator or designated representative.
• Regular progress updates will be expected throughout the consultancy.
• All deliverables must be submitted on time and aligned with WWF Zimbabwe’s expectations.

Interested consultants are requested to submit their bids to hrmanager@wwf.org.zw with the following:

• A technical proposal outlining methodology, relevant experience, and understanding of the assignment.
• A financial proposal, including a breakdown of daily rate and total consultancy cost.
• CVs or portfolio of relevant work.

Email header should include the words “ Sinamatella Water Feasibility Study”.

Deadline for applications: 3 December 2025