Background and Introduction

The Research Department under the Information Direction Services, is responsible for research, information analysis and delivery services. Across the world the importance of having rigorous research evidence to inform legislative, representation and oversight work of parliamentarians is now a key requirement given citizens’ demand for accountability.  

 

The genesis of the Research Department, Parliament of Zimbabwe, can be traced back to 1982 when it started with a staff complement of two Research Officers. With the passage of time, the demand of research and information analysis services increased immensely. There are 19 Portfolio Committees, six (6) Thematic Committees, and there is also Public Accounts Committee and any other ad hoc Committees as may be appointed from time to time, require research services. The number of parliamentarians in the National Assembly has also increased to 360. To provide adequate research service the department has a complement of 26 researchers. The department which is comprised of researchers with various academic backgrounds is headed by the Director.

 

Department objectives

  • To provide information to parliament committees through research products which include bills digest, policy briefs, fact sheets and draft questions for probing oral evidence during inquiries and field visit.
  • To draft background papers, speeches and intervention notes for Presiding Officers, chairpersons of committees, and parliament delegates attending meetings and conferences locally, regionally and internationally.
  • To rapporteur and produce reports of parliament and committees seminars and conferences conducted locally, regionally and internationally.
  • To proffer advisory services to committees and chairpersons of committees.
  • Collect, compile and analyze constituency informatics data base and profiles.
  • Draft motion notes for parliamentarians
  • To draft research papers on topics and subject of relevance and importance to parliament and committees work.