Expert en Communication sur les risques et engagement communautaire (CREC) – NOB

Job Posting Organization:
The job posting organization is the World Health Organization (WHO), which is a specialized agency of the United Nations responsible for international public health. Established on April 7, 1948, WHO has a mission to promote health, keep the world safe, and serve vulnerable populations. The organization operates in over 150 countries and has a workforce of more than 7,000 employees. WHO's initiatives include responding to health emergencies, combating diseases, and improving health systems globally.

Job Overview:
The position of Expert in Risk Communication and Community Engagement (CREC) is crucial for the implementation of the Health Emergency Preparedness, Response, and Resilience Project (HEPRR-MPA) in the Democratic Republic of the Congo (DRC). This project aims to address the high prevalence and lethality of cervical cancer in the DRC by introducing the HPV vaccine and enhancing access to quality healthcare services. The CREC expert will develop and execute a communication strategy that aligns with national health communication strategies, focusing on increasing community participation and trust in health interventions. The role involves creating communication materials, coordinating awareness campaigns, and establishing a rumor monitoring system to counter misinformation regarding the HPV vaccine. The expert will work closely with various stakeholders, including government ministries and community leaders, to foster an environment conducive to the successful introduction of the HPV vaccine and to ensure equitable access to healthcare services.

Duties and Responsibilities:
The main responsibilities of the CREC expert include:

• Developing a project-specific RCCE strategy that aligns with the national communication strategy of the Ministry of Public Health.
• Designing and producing communication tools such as brochures, radio messages, videos, and social media content.
• Coordinating awareness campaigns through media and community networks.
• Establishing a monitoring and analysis system for rumors surrounding the HPV vaccine.
• Collaborating with health program managers and provincial health departments to implement strategic and operational CREC activities.
• Training health workers, teachers, community liaisons, and local journalists.
• Documenting lessons learned and best practices for replication in other provinces. Expected outcomes include a validated RCCE strategy, operational communication plans for each province, produced and disseminated communication materials, monthly reports on community perceptions and activities, training workshop reports, and contributions to quarterly technical and financial reports.

Required Qualifications:
Essential qualifications include a bachelor's degree in communication, journalism, public relations, or a related field. Desirable qualifications include specialization or certified training in public health or health communication. The candidate must possess strong interpersonal communication skills, writing abilities, and experience in community engagement and rumor management. Familiarity with the RCCE landscape in the DRC and the ability to work under pressure to achieve objectives are also essential.

Educational Background:
Candidates must hold a bachelor's degree in communication, journalism, public relations, or a related field. A specialization or certified training in public health or health communication is desirable, indicating a strong foundation in both communication strategies and health-related issues.

Experience:
Candidates should have at least two years of relevant experience in a similar role within public health. Experience in communication for the introduction of new vaccines in the DRC is required, along with proven experience in rumor management, social mobilization, and community engagement. Demonstrated ability to collaborate with governmental and international partners is essential, while experience with the United Nations system, particularly in the context of RCCE with WHO or UNICEF, is preferred.

Languages:
The essential language requirement is excellent proficiency in French and practical knowledge of English. Knowledge of local languages is desirable, as it can enhance communication and engagement with the community.

Additional Notes:
This position is classified as a National Professional Officer role, meaning only applications from nationals of the Democratic Republic of the Congo will be accepted. The contract duration is from June 2025 to May 2028, and the position is full-time. The remuneration will be according to the UN salary scale applicable in the DRC. The WHO emphasizes diversity in its workforce and encourages applications from women and individuals from underrepresented member states. The organization maintains a smoke-free environment and has a zero-tolerance policy towards sexual exploitation and abuse, ensuring a safe and respectful workplace.