Communications Expert – Nairobi, Kenya (2024)

Job Opening: Communications Expert in Nairobi, Kenya

• Communications Expert – Nairobi, Kenya (2024)
• Position: Communications Expert
• Location: AU-IBAR Headquarters, Nairobi, Kenya
• Job Category: Consultancy – Communication
• Type of Job: Contractual (6 Months)
• Years of Experience: (0-2 )years
• Reporting to: Project Coordinator and Senior Knowledge Management Officer
• Application Deadline: 27 December 2024

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Introduction and Context

The African Union Inter-African Bureau for Animal Resources (AU-IBAR), a specialized technical office under the Department of Agriculture, Rural Development, Blue Economy, and Sustainable Environment (DARBE), seeks a Communications Expert for the Pan-African PPR Secretariat (PAPS) based in Nairobi, Kenya.

The AU-IBAR Strategic Plan (2024-2028) envisions a transformative Africa where animal resources significantly contribute to integration, prosperity, and peace. Guided by Agenda 2063 and the Livestock Development Strategy for Africa (LiDeSA), AU-IBAR promotes sustainable livestock economies to support Africa’s development.

This consultancy aligns with AU-IBAR’s objectives to eradicate Peste des Petits Ruminants (PPR)—a transboundary disease impacting small ruminants—through strengthened coordination, governance, and evidence-based interventions.

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Key Responsibilities

As the Communications Expert, you will undertake the following tasks to ensure the successful execution of the PPR Eradication Programme:

Strategic Communication and Advocacy

1. Develop and implement comprehensive communication strategies aligned with AU-IBAR’s objectives and strategic plans.
2. Advocate for AU-IBAR’s achievements in eradicating Peste des Petits Ruminants (PPR) across the continent.
3. Coordinate social mobilization activities to enhance public awareness and stakeholder engagement.

Media Relations and Information Dissemination

4. Prepare media briefings, organize press engagements, and manage AU-IBAR’s communication with diverse audiences.
5. Establish and maintain relationships with media outlets, journalists, and science communicators at continental, regional, and national levels.
6. Draft engaging content for social media platforms, newsletters, and other digital channels.

Knowledge Management and Collaboration

7. Collaborate with the Knowledge Management Officer and Webmaster to develop and update the AU-IBAR Knowledge Sharing Platform and project microsites.
8. Promote the use of collaborative tools for idea and information sharing among stakeholders.
9. Document success stories, lessons learned, and best practices in animal resource management across Africa.

Content Development

10. Develop tailored communication materials, including newsletters, videos, and multimedia productions, to amplify AU-IBAR’s visibility.
11. Work closely with graphic designers to create visually appealing content for dissemination.

Capacity Building and Training

12. Conduct training sessions on communication platforms and tools for internal and external stakeholders.
13. Facilitate knowledge-sharing workshops and focus groups to strengthen AU Member States’ communication practices.

Program Branding and Visibility

14. Ensure maximum visibility of project donors and implementing partners through strategic communication efforts.
15. Enhance AU-IBAR’s reputation as a leading organization in animal resource development.

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Requirements

Academic and Professional Qualifications

• Bachelor’s Degree in Development Communication, Mass Communication, or a related field.
• Post-graduate qualifications in communications or similar fields will be advantageous.

General Experience

• Minimum of 0-2 years’ experience in communication within regional, continental, or international organizations.
• Proven track record in delivering effective communication programs.

Specific Experience

• Proficiency in development communication, media relations, and advocacy management.
• Hands-on experience with digital communication tools, content management systems (CMS), and social media platforms.
• Familiarity with the animal resources sector will be a plus.

Other Skills

• Strategic thinker with excellent interpersonal and teamwork capabilities.
• Exceptional English communication skills (fluency in another AU working language is desirable).
• Proficiency in problem-solving, analytical thinking, and information sharing.

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Duty Station

The position is based at AU-IBAR Headquarters, Nairobi, Kenya, with periodic travel as required.

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Duration

This is a 6-month consultancy, renewable based on satisfactory performance and funding availability.

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How to apply

Submission of the application

Applications are open to individuals of eligible nationalities. If your career aspirations, qualifications, and experience match the above requirements, please email your application stating Communications Expert as the subject to procurement@au-ibar.org.

The application should include the following documents:

• Detailed curriculum vitae with names and contact details of professional referees (reference letters may be provided)
• Copies of academic and professional certificates
• Signed declaration on exclusion criteria (format provided in website)
• Copy of identification documents

The deadline for receipt of applications is 27th December 2024 at midnight Nairobi local time.

Documents

• Terms of Reference (English Version)

• AU-IBAR Personal Data Protection and Privacy Statement

• AU-IBAR Declaration Form

• TELEGRAM CHANNEL

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Equal Opportunity Statement

We are an equal opportunity employer and are committed to attracting and retaining the best employees from all backgrounds.

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