Community UNV for Anticipatory Action

Job Posting Organization:
The World Food Programme (WFP) is the leading humanitarian organization dedicated to saving lives and changing lives by delivering food assistance in emergencies and working with communities to improve nutrition and build resilience. Established as part of the United Nations system, WFP operates globally, with a mission to help achieve Zero Hunger in our lifetimes. The organization is recognized as the world's largest humanitarian agency fighting hunger worldwide, with a presence in numerous countries and a workforce that includes thousands of employees committed to addressing food insecurity and related challenges.

Job Overview:
The position of Community UNV for Anticipatory Action is crucial for the implementation of WFP’s engagement with government counterparts and partners in Tanzania. The role focuses on supporting the operational roll-out and readiness activities of the Anticipatory Action project in the targeted districts of Monduli, Same, and Longido. The UNV will be instrumental in facilitating coordination and engagement with local authorities, community leaders, and stakeholders, ensuring effective community-level sensitization and awareness regarding Anticipatory Action concepts. This position requires a proactive approach to collecting and documenting baseline and operational data relevant to early actions, as well as monitoring implementation progress and providing regular updates to the WFP programme team. The UNV will also be responsible for identifying operational challenges and proposing practical solutions during the start-up phase, making this role vital for the success of the program.

Duties and Responsibilities:

• Support the operational roll-out and readiness activities of the Anticipatory Action project in the districts of Same, Monduli, and Longido.
• Facilitate coordination and engagement with district authorities, line departments, community leaders, and local stakeholders to ensure alignment and support for the project.
• Assist in community-level sensitization and awareness initiatives regarding Anticipatory Action concepts and planned interventions.
• Collect, verify, and document baseline and operational data relevant to AA triggers and early actions to inform decision-making.
• Plan and organize meetings, trainings, and field activities at both district and community levels to enhance stakeholder engagement.
• Monitor implementation progress and provide regular field updates and reports to the WFP programme team to ensure transparency and accountability.
• Identify operational challenges and propose practical solutions to address them during the start-up phase of the project.
• Ensure proper documentation of lessons learned and good practices to inform future scale-up efforts.
• Perform any other related duties as assigned by the supervisor to support the overall objectives of the program.

Required Qualifications:
Candidates must possess strong interpersonal and community engagement skills, demonstrating the ability to work independently in remote settings. Flexibility and a willingness to travel frequently are essential, as the role involves working in various locations. Cultural sensitivity and professionalism are critical, along with a commitment to UN values and humanitarian principles. The ideal candidate should be adaptable and capable of navigating diverse environments while maintaining a focus on the mission of WFP.

Educational Background:
A background in social sciences, development studies, environmental science, or a related field is preferred. Candidates should have a solid understanding of humanitarian principles and disaster risk management, particularly in the context of climate change and security" style="border-bottom: 1px dotted #007bff !important;">security" style="border-bottom: 1px dotted #007bff !important;">food security. Relevant training or certifications in community engagement, project management, or related areas would be advantageous.

Experience:
The position requires prior experience in community engagement, project implementation, or humanitarian assistance, particularly in the context of climate services and disaster risk management. Experience working with local authorities, NGOs, or international organizations in similar roles will be highly regarded. Familiarity with the local context in Tanzania, especially in the targeted districts, will be beneficial for effective engagement and implementation.

Languages:
Fluency in English is mandatory, as it is the working language of WFP. Proficiency in Kiswahili is highly desirable, as it will facilitate communication with local communities and stakeholders. Knowledge of additional local languages may be considered an asset, enhancing the ability to engage effectively with diverse populations.

Additional Notes:
The assignment will be for a duration of 6 months, based in Arusha, with frequent travel to field locations including Simanjiro, Same, and Longido. This position is categorized as a volunteer role, and candidates should be prepared for the challenges of working in remote and semi-arid areas with varying road conditions. Basic amenities are generally available in district towns, but volunteers should be flexible and ready for occasional power and internet interruptions. The security situation in the duty stations is generally stable, but adherence to UNDSS security protocols and host entity guidance during field travel is required at all times.