UNICEF Social Protection Officer Inclusion

Job Posting Organization:
UNICEF, also known as the United Nations Children's Fund, is a prominent United Nations agency dedicated to providing humanitarian and developmental aid to children across the globe. Established in 1946, UNICEF operates in 192 countries and territories, making it one of the most recognized social welfare organizations worldwide. The agency's mission encompasses a wide range of activities aimed at improving the lives of children and mothers, including immunizations, disease prevention, treatment for HIV, enhancing nutrition, improving sanitation, promoting education, and providing emergency relief in response to disasters. UNICEF's commitment to children's rights and welfare is reflected in its comprehensive programs and initiatives designed to address the diverse needs of children and families in various contexts.

Job Overview:
The Social Policy programme section of UNICEF Kenya Country Office is focused on promoting and protecting the rights of every child, with a particular emphasis on reducing child poverty and strengthening social protection systems. The Social Policy Section leads UNICEF's efforts in child poverty analysis, public finance for children, and social protection, generating evidence to inform policy and program decisions. This role is crucial in enhancing disability inclusion in social protection, aiming to ensure that 90 million children globally are screened and have access to disability support services and assistive technology by 202

• The Officer will work under the guidance of the Social Policy Specialist, supporting initiatives related to disability inclusion, social protection reforms for children with disabilities, and enhancing early identification and referral processes. The position offers opportunities for collaboration with a small team of specialists and exposure to national-level policy dialogue, contributing to sustainable initiatives that will benefit children with disabilities and their caregivers in Kenya for years to come.

Duties and Responsibilities:
The Officer will be responsible for several key tasks, including:

• Gathering and communicating lessons learned from the Unpaid Care pilot project and assisting in the development of a government roadmap for implementing a Care and Support System.
• Analyzing lessons learned from the Unpaid Care model in Nairobi County and disseminating findings to relevant stakeholders.
• Providing Secretariat support for collaboration with GIZ and other UN agencies to advance the Amman-Berlin Declaration Targets, ensuring effective documentation and follow-up of engagements.
• Supporting program activities related to systems strengthening for the identification, assessment, and provision of assistive technology for children with disabilities.
• Assisting the Social Policy Specialist in implementing financing received to enhance the NIKO program, focusing on strengthening systems for assistive technology provision.

Required Qualifications:
Candidates must possess a strong understanding of social protection systems, particularly in relation to disability inclusion. They should demonstrate excellent analytical skills, with the ability to gather and interpret data effectively. Strong communication skills are essential for disseminating findings and engaging with government and civil society partners. The ideal candidate should also exhibit adaptability and flexibility in a dynamic work environment, along with a commitment to UNICEF's mission and values.

Educational Background:
A bachelor's degree in social sciences, public policy, international development, or a related field is required. A master's degree in a relevant discipline is preferred and may enhance the candidate's competitiveness for the position.

Experience:
Candidates should have a minimum of three years of relevant professional experience in social policy, social protection, or related fields. Experience working with government agencies, NGOs, or international organizations in the context of child welfare and disability inclusion is highly desirable. Familiarity with the Kenyan context and social protection systems will be an advantage.

Languages:
Fluency in English is mandatory, both written and spoken. Knowledge of Kiswahili is an asset and may be beneficial for effective communication within the local context. Additional languages relevant to the region may also be considered an advantage.

Additional Notes:
This position is based in Nairobi, Kenya, and may involve occasional travel within the country. The role is full-time, and candidates should be prepared to work in a collaborative team environment. The contract duration and specific compensation details will be provided during the recruitment process. It is important for candidates to be aware of the living conditions in Nairobi, including health precautions and security" style="border-bottom: 1px dotted #007bff !important;">security considerations, as outlined in the job description.