Programme Policy Officer

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 in 1961, WFP operates in over 80 countries, employing thousands of staff members who are committed to eradicating hunger and promoting sustainable development. WFP's mission is to ensure that no child goes to bed hungry and that every individual has access to the food they need to lead a healthy and active life. The organization works closely with governments, NGOs, and other partners to implement programs that address the root causes of hunger and malnutrition, focusing on security" style="border-bottom: 1px dotted #007bff !important;">security" style="border-bottom: 1px dotted #007bff !important;">food security, nutrition, and resilience building. WFP's strategic initiatives are guided by the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) and aim to create a world where everyone has access to safe, nutritious food. In Tanzania, WFP is implementing a five-year Country Strategic Plan (CSP) that aligns with national development priorities and aims to support equitable and inclusive economic growth through investments in human capital, resilient livelihoods, and nutritious diets.

Job Overview:
The Programme Policy Officer will play a crucial role in the implementation of a new one-year project aimed at enhancing food security and agroecosystem restoration through the promotion of regenerative agriculture. This position will work directly under the supervision of the Activity 5 manager based in the Dodoma office. The officer will be responsible for delivering programs and interventions that promote agricultural production and productivity through regenerative agricultural practices, post-harvest handling and storage, collective aggregation and marketing, and the establishment of market linkages through business development services (BDS). Additionally, the officer will engage with ongoing initiatives such as the Youth in Work (Vijana Kilimo Bishara) program, which focuses on promoting employment opportunities for youth and women. The role requires strong collaboration with local and international partners to enhance service access for smallholder farmers and to ensure the successful implementation of agricultural development initiatives.

Duties and Responsibilities:
The Programme Policy Officer will have a diverse set of responsibilities, including but not limited to: leading innovative technology transfer initiatives for smallholder farmers through strategic partnerships with organizations such as the Tanzania Agricultural Research Institute (TARI) and SAGRI; acting as a liaison and coordination focal point with local partners, including the Japan International Cooperation Agency (JICA) and local government authorities; coordinating the dissemination of information generated by SAGRI in collaboration with TARI; providing specialized technical support to cooperating partners (CPs) to strengthen agricultural production and productivity; supporting capacity strengthening initiatives by designing and delivering training for technical staff from CPs and local authorities; ensuring the integration of gender, protection, and community engagement approaches across all activity components; supporting the identification and assessment of farmer organizations and pro-smallholder aggregators; providing technical guidance on good agronomic practices (GAP) and regenerative agriculture; facilitating partnerships and strengthening service delivery models; supporting robust monitoring and reporting by reviewing CP progress reports; serving as a field-level focal point for addressing operational challenges; and performing any other tasks required by the Activity and SO Manager.

Required Qualifications:
Candidates for the Programme Policy Officer position should possess a strong background in agricultural development, food security, or a related field. They should have demonstrated experience in project management, particularly in the context of agricultural programs. Strong analytical skills, the ability to work collaboratively with diverse stakeholders, and excellent communication skills are essential. Candidates should also have a proven track record of implementing capacity-building initiatives and engaging with local communities. Familiarity with regenerative agriculture practices and experience in working with smallholder farmers will be highly advantageous.

Educational Background:
A minimum of a bachelor's degree in agriculture, agronomy, development studies, or a related field is required. A master's degree in a relevant discipline will be considered an asset. Candidates should have a solid understanding of agricultural systems, food security, and nutrition, as well as the ability to apply this knowledge in practical settings.

Experience:
The ideal candidate should have at least 3-5 years of relevant professional experience in agricultural development, food security, or related fields. Experience working with smallholder farmers and understanding their challenges is crucial. Previous experience in project management, particularly in the context of international organizations or NGOs, will be beneficial.

Languages:
Fluency in English is mandatory, as it is the working language of WFP. Proficiency in Kiswahili is highly desirable, given the local context and the need to communicate effectively with local stakeholders. Knowledge of additional languages relevant to the region may be considered an asset.

Additional Notes:
This position is based in Dar es Salaam, Tanzania, and may require travel to various project sites within the country. The role is full-time and may involve working in challenging conditions. Candidates should be prepared for a dynamic work environment and possess the flexibility to adapt to changing circumstances. The security level in Dar es Salaam is classified as Moderate (Level 3), and candidates should be aware of the security considerations in the region. Compensation and benefits will be commensurate with WFP standards and policies.