Communications Officer

Volunteering Medical & Health Communications & PR

Overview

Lead effective communication strategies for the UHP cluster

You have:

• Communications experience at national and/or international level required.
• Excellent oral and written skills; excellent drafting, formulation, reporting skills.
• Excellent interpersonal skills; culturally sensitive; ability to work inclusively and collaboratively with various partners.
• Strong computer literacy, including proficiency in MS Office applications and email/internet.
• Ability to work effectively in a multicultural team of international and national personnel.
• Self-motivated, ability to work with minimum supervision and tight deadlines.
• Sound security awareness is required for the position.
• Affinity with or interest in WHO volunteerism as a mechanism for sustainable development.

Contract

This is a UNV International Specialist contract. This kind of contract is known as International UN Volunteer. It is normally internationally recruited only. More about UNV International Specialist contracts.

The WHO Regional Office for Africa (AFRO) is located in Brazzaville, Republic of Congo and serves 47 of the 54 countries in Africa.

The Regional Office translates global health initiatives into plans addressing region-specific needs and challenges. WHO staff at three levels of the Organization (headquarters, Regional Office, and Country Offices) then provide technical support and work with countries on promoting health and addressing risk factors to achieve better wellbeing and health.

The Universal Health Coverage/Healthier Populations (UHP) Cluster fosters a whole-of-government, whole-of-society approach to address social, environmental, and economic factors, including gender, equity, rights, child development, and violence.

• Map the communication/visibility needs of the UHP cluster in consultation with team leads and the Director • Propose a communications plan for the UHP cluster which works in synergy with the global and regional communications strategies. • Liaise and work with team leads and WCOs to develop feature stories which highlight the cluster’s impact on the ground. • Track and identify subjects of interest/communication opportunities and develop media/communication activities within the UHP Cluster. • Manage the Directors’ social media platforms in compliance with guidelines and standards used throughout the Organization, to ensure consistency of approach. • Strengthen UHP cluster brand through the development and publication of visibility materials such as bulletins, press statements and social media posts. • Support the documentation work of the cluster & maintain UHP Cluster digital media archives including photos and videos. • Working with AFRO/COM, organize photographic shoots, interviews, and filming opportunities for Cluster’s leads to support high visibility of UHP achievements. • Perform any other communications related duties as required by the functional supervisor.

• Accountability • Adaptability and flexibility • Creativity • Teamwork • Respecting individual and cultural differences

Communications, a professional work experience at national and/or international level. • Excellent oral and written skills; excellent drafting, formulation, reporting skills. • Accuracy and professionalism in document production and editing. • Excellent interpersonal skills; culturally and socially sensitive; ability to work inclusively and collaboratively with a range of partners, including grassroots community members, religious and youth organizations, and authorities at different levels; familiarity with tools and approaches of communications for development. • Ability to work and adapt professionally and effectively in a challenging environment; ability to work effectively in a multicultural team of international and national personnel. • Solid overall computer literacy, including proficiency in various MS Office applications (Excel, Word, etc.) and email/internet. • Self-motivated, ability to work with minimum supervision; ability to work with tight deadlines. • Sound security awareness. • Have affinity with or interest in WHO volunteerism as a mechanism for durable development, and the UN System.

The State of Eritrea is located in the Horn of Africa, bordered by Sudan to the west, Ethiopia to the south, Djibouti to the southeast, and the Red Sea to the east. Eritrea operates as a unitary state with six administrative regions known as Zobas. The country has a population of approximately 3.5 million people, growing at a rate of 1.4% per year. Eritrea’s economy is largely agricultural, with key crops including sorghum, barley, wheat, and maize. The Gross National Income (GNI) per capita, adjusted for purchasing power parity (PPP), is estimated to be around $1,500. Although significant progress has been made in improving living standards, over 50% of Eritrea’s population still lives below the poverty line.

Asmara, the capital city, is a UNESCO World Heritage site with beautiful Italian-style architecture. It offers basic amenities including supermarkets, health facilities, and a few international restaurants. However, options are limited, and prices for imported goods can be high. Access to quality healthcare and educational facilities can be challenging, and expatriates often seek medical attention outside the country.

The climate in Asmara is mild throughout the year, given its elevation at over 2,300 meters above sea level. Summers are warm, but not extreme, and winters are cool. In coastal regions such as Massawa, the climate is hot and humid, particularly during the summer months.

Infrastructure and Services: Eritrea’s infrastructure development is ongoing, and while Asmara has relatively reliable public services, water and electricity shortages are common, requiring residents to have alternative power sources like generators and water storage tanks. Internet access is slow and expensive, with limited coverage outside of major cities. Mobile phone service is available but may be unreliable in rural areas.

Transportation: The main international gateway is Asmara International Airport, with limited international flights. Road transport is the most common means of travel within the country, but road conditions can vary. Public transport in the form of buses and taxis is available in urban centers, but personal vehicles are recommended for mobility outside the city.

Socio-Economic and Cultural Background: Eritrea is home to nine ethnic groups, each with distinct cultural practices and languages. Tigrinya is the most widely spoken language, but Arabic and English are also commonly used, particularly in business and government sectors. Eritrea is known for its emphasis on self-reliance, and community solidarity is deeply ingrained in the culture. Security in Asmara and other parts of the country is generally stable, though some regions may have travel restrictions due to political sensitivities.

Living Conditions in Eritrea can be basic and require adaptability. Flexibility and a high level of cultural awareness are important for expatriates. The country offers a unique and enriching environment, but the lack of certain modern conveniences and the intermittent availability of services can pose challenges. Living in Eritrea may involve some physical hardships, making resilience and a willingness to adapt essential for a comfortable and successful stay.

Apply now

Potential interview questions

Added 1 year ago - Updated 1 year ago - Source: unv.org