SAF Feasibility Model

The background to the process we are to embark on is that the confederation would like us to have more impact with less resources and as you are all aware, the organisation is stretched resource wise and some of you will agree that we are also struggling with a sense of complexity in our current set up which is generating some risks at different levels. The context we operate in is also shifting and there is need for us to be relevant and fit for the future. We are an organisation that is trying hard to confront the legacy of our history in terms of programme approaches and delivery. Indeed, SAF as a region, has not been spared from the impact of the shrinking resources as well as the impact of the complexity we are in.

When the EDs met last year, they concluded that “We are working in too many countries” and therefore “spread too thin.’’ They agreed to explore a combination of potential exits or lighter models of presence in some countries to free up some resources that could be reinvested more strategically. In other words, they want to ensure that the future models to help the confederation to balance the more sophisticated program models we are involved in, and likely to be more so with the upcoming OI Strategic Plan, with the right business models and therefore the redistribution of the existing financial resources and support. Overall, we are required to ensure that we balance reach, quality and management load with reduced financial resources.

As you might recall, last year we embarked on a review of the SAF operating model under the leadership of the RGG through a Task Team they set up to lead this process. Our ideas were shared with the EDs in their October 2018 meeting and the outcome was a commission for us to do a feasibility study on the proposed ideas. When cyclone Idai hit last March, the exercise was suspended to allow for time to respond to the crisis.

Below are some of the frequently asked question that are normally asked when organisations undertake such a process. This is a living document and we will be updating as we go. Note also that some of the questions that will be raised either in meetings or through other platforms will be also be included here for the benefit of everyone across the region.