PROJECT COORDINATOR: TENURE REFORM IMPLEMENTATION

This position offers an opportunity to contribute directly to land reform and tenure security in South Africa, working within the District Office in KwaZulu-Natal, based in Vryheid. As a Project Coordinator for Tenure Reform Implementation, the successful candidate will be responsible for driving communal land tenure projects and ensuring that communities understand and exercise their rights under relevant legislation. The role sits within a government directorate focused on land rights management, and it requires a blend of legal knowledge, community engagement, and project management skill. The work is practical and field-oriented, involving direct interaction with communities, traditional structures, and land rights management bodies, as well as administrative and reporting responsibilities.

Applicants must hold a Grade 12 certificate and a National Diploma at NQF Level 6 in Humanities, Social Sciences, Law, or a related equivalent qualification. At least three years of relevant experience is required, along with a valid driver’s licence and a willingness to travel extensively. The role demands thorough knowledge of land tenure security matters, tenure legislation and policies, strategic planning, human resources, financial management, supply chain management, and economics. Strong communication skills, both verbal and written, are essential, as are negotiation and conflict resolution abilities. The coordinator must also demonstrate strategic management, leadership, networking, project management, team management, customer and client focus, and statistical forecasting skills.

The core duties involve implementing communal land tenure projects and initiating awareness and capacity-building programmes on communal land management and relevant laws for stakeholders. The coordinator will liaise with and provide support to land rights management structures, offering legal protection and awareness. A key part of the role is facilitating and mediating in cases of land rights violations and disputes on communal land, in line with applicable legislation. The coordinator will also conduct the implementation of communal tenure upgrade programmes and land rights projects, respond to queries, and support the Land Rights Management Facility. Another significant responsibility is the establishment and support of communal property entities, including Communal Property Associations (CPAs). This includes initiating their formation, maintaining a database of CPAs and similar entities, conducting awareness activities, investigating their affairs, and intervening where necessary. The coordinator will also engage in mediation and dispute resolution proceedings involving CPAs.

Supervisory support is another important element, including implementing the provincial implementation plan on tenure projects, conducting stakeholder relations services, and representing the directorate at various forums. The coordinator must facilitate CPA compliance with legislation, attend to external and internal audits, implement risk and audit action plans, and compile reports. This is a demanding role that requires both strategic oversight and hands-on community engagement. The department has set employment equity targets for this post, specifically encouraging applications from Coloured, Indian, and White males and females, as well as persons with disabilities. This is a Level 10 position within the public service, offering a chance to make a meaningful difference in land rights and tenure reform.