National Volunteer – Peacebuilding & DRR Advisor

Job Posting Organization:
VSO is a not-for-profit organization dedicated to promoting volunteering as a powerful and practical means to combat poverty and inequality. Established with the mission to create lasting change through volunteering, VSO operates in some of the world’s poorest and most fragile regions. The organization believes in empowering individuals rather than merely providing aid, working alongside volunteers and partners to enable people to shape their own futures. VSO's approach, known as Volunteering for Development (VfD), prioritizes the most marginalized individuals, fostering active citizenship that drives community-led change and contributes to sustainable development goals even after projects conclude. VSO has a rich history grounded in evidence and learning, which informs its strategies and interventions across various countries.

Job Overview:
The National Volunteer – Peacebuilding & DRR Advisor plays a crucial role in implementing conflict-sensitive peacebuilding and disaster risk reduction initiatives as part of the RECAP project. This position is centered on enhancing community-based peace mechanisms, improving preparedness for climate-related and disaster-related shocks, and fostering peaceful coexistence and resilience among cross-border communities, particularly in the Moyale and Sololo sub-counties of Kenya. The advisor will work closely with local communities to identify their needs and develop strategies that promote peace and resilience, ensuring that interventions are tailored to the specific contexts and challenges faced by these communities. The role requires a deep understanding of the local dynamics and the ability to engage effectively with various stakeholders to facilitate positive change.

Duties and Responsibilities:
The National Volunteer – Peacebuilding & DRR Advisor will be responsible for a range of duties, including but not limited to:

• Supporting the design and implementation of peacebuilding and disaster risk reduction strategies within the RECAP project framework.
• Collaborating with local communities to strengthen existing peace mechanisms and develop new initiatives that promote conflict resolution and social cohesion.
• Conducting assessments to identify vulnerabilities and capacities related to disaster risks and conflict in the target areas.
• Facilitating training and capacity-building workshops for community members and local organizations on peacebuilding and disaster preparedness.
• Monitoring and evaluating the effectiveness of interventions, providing feedback and recommendations for improvement.
• Engaging with local government and other stakeholders to advocate for policies and practices that support peace and resilience.
• Documenting lessons learned and best practices to share with the broader VSO network and contribute to organizational learning.

Required Qualifications:
Candidates for the National Volunteer – Peacebuilding & DRR Advisor position should possess a strong set of qualifications, including:

• Proven experience in peacebuilding, conflict resolution, or disaster risk reduction, preferably in a community-based context.
• Strong understanding of the socio-political dynamics in Kenya, particularly in relation to cross-border communities.
• Excellent facilitation and communication skills, with the ability to engage diverse stakeholders effectively.
• Demonstrated ability to work collaboratively in a team environment and build sustainable relationships with community members and partners.
• Strong analytical and problem-solving skills, with the ability to adapt to changing circumstances and challenges.

Educational Background:
A relevant educational background is essential for this position. Candidates should ideally hold a degree in social sciences, international development, peace studies, or a related field. Advanced degrees or specialized training in peacebuilding, conflict resolution, or disaster risk management will be considered an asset.

Experience:
The ideal candidate should have a minimum of 2-3 years of relevant experience in peacebuilding, disaster risk reduction, or community development. Experience working in Kenya or similar contexts, particularly in cross-border areas, will be highly advantageous. Familiarity with participatory approaches and community engagement strategies is also important.

Languages:
Fluency in English is mandatory for this position, as it is the primary language of communication within VSO and with international partners. Knowledge of local languages spoken in the Moyale and Sololo regions will be considered a significant advantage, as it will facilitate better engagement with community members and enhance the effectiveness of interventions.

Additional Notes:
This position is a full-time volunteer role, and while the salary is not specified, volunteers will receive an allowance in local currency to cover reasonable living expenses. It is important to note that this allowance may not be sufficient to send money home. Accommodation provided will be basic, reflecting the organization's commitment to working with some of the poorest communities in the world. The application closing date is set for February 23, 2026, with interviews scheduled for March 10, 2026, and the anticipated start date for the role is April 1, 202

• VSO promotes equal opportunities and values a diverse workforce, and reserves the right to close the job early if a sufficient number of applications are received.