Consultant for Community Engagement Assessment

Job Posting Organization:
The World Food Programme (WFP) is the world’s largest humanitarian organization dedicated to saving lives in emergencies and using food assistance to build pathways to peace, stability, and prosperity for people recovering from conflict, disasters, and the impacts of climate change. Established in 1961, WFP operates in over 80 countries, employing thousands of staff members who are committed to the mission of ending global hunger. WFP's vision emphasizes diversity, inclusion, and a healthy work environment, ensuring that all employees are selected based on merit and are supported in their professional development through various training and mobility opportunities. WFP is also recognized as a Nobel Peace Prize Laureate in 2020, highlighting its significant contributions to humanitarian efforts worldwide. For more information, visit their website at https://www.wfp.org and follow them on social media platforms for updates on their initiatives and achievements.

Job Overview:
The consultant will play a crucial role in leading a comprehensive Community Engagement Assessment aimed at mapping community structures, information flows, participation barriers, gender and power dynamics, and related risks across WFP intervention areas. This position requires a deep understanding of community engagement principles and practices, as well as the ability to analyze and synthesize complex information to inform the development of a Community Engagement Action Plan, a Community Communication Strategy, and a Community Gender Dialogue Manual. The consultant will work closely with various stakeholders, including the Head of Programme and the Gender and Protection unit, to ensure that the assessment aligns with WFP's operational priorities and strategic goals. The role emphasizes the importance of community participation in decision-making processes related to nutrition" style="border-bottom: 1px dotted #007bff !important;">food and nutrition security" style="border-bottom: 1px dotted #007bff !important;">security, ensuring that the voices of affected populations are heard and considered in design" style="border-bottom: 1px dotted #007bff !important;">program design and implementation.

Duties and Responsibilities:
The consultant will be responsible for conducting a thorough assessment of community engagement practices within WFP's intervention areas. This includes reviewing current sensitization messages and communication channels, mapping community structures, identifying influential community members, and examining how information flows within communities. The consultant will also assess barriers to participation and trust in communication, as well as risks related to exclusion, gender norms, and conflict dynamics. Based on the findings, the consultant will develop a Community Engagement Action Plan that outlines objectives, expected outcomes, and indicators, as well as a Community Communication Strategy that enhances two-way communication with affected populations. Additionally, the consultant will create a Community Gender Dialogue Manual that provides structured sessions for community-level dialogues aimed at addressing harmful gender norms. The consultant will facilitate validation sessions with WFP, partners, and community representatives to ensure the deliverables are contextually relevant and effective.

Required Qualifications:
Candidates must possess an advanced university degree in Social/Behavioral Sciences, Communications, Community Development, Social Work, Humanitarian Studies, or a related field. A minimum of 8-10 years of experience in community engagement, gender equality, or social behavioral change is required. Candidates should have demonstrated experience in food security, nutrition, or humanitarian programming, as well as a strong understanding of conflict sensitivity and protection principles. Experience in developing and implementing assessments, participatory approaches, and inclusive communication frameworks is essential. Familiarity with WFP or UN operations is preferred, and experience working in Northeast Nigeria or similar complex humanitarian settings is an asset.

Educational Background:
An advanced university degree in relevant fields such as Social/Behavioral Sciences, Communications, Community Development, Social Work, or Humanitarian Studies is required for this position. This educational background provides the necessary theoretical foundation and practical skills needed to effectively engage with communities and address the complexities of humanitarian work.

Experience:
The position requires a substantial level of experience, specifically a minimum of 8-10 years in community engagement, gender equality, or social behavioral change. Candidates should have a proven track record in food security, nutrition, or humanitarian programming, demonstrating their ability to navigate the challenges and dynamics of these fields. Experience in developing and implementing assessments and participatory approaches is crucial, as is familiarity with the operational realities of humanitarian work in complex settings.

Languages:
Fluency in English is mandatory, while proficiency in Hausa and Kanuri is highly desirable. The ability to communicate effectively in multiple languages is essential for engaging with diverse communities and ensuring that messages are understood and trusted by all stakeholders involved.

Additional Notes:
This consultancy position is expected to be full-time and will involve working in various locations across Nigeria, particularly in areas where WFP is implementing General Food Assistance, Resilience, and Livelihood activities. The consultant will be required to engage with community members, government partners, and other stakeholders to gather insights and validate findings. The compensation package will be attractive and in line with WFP's Terms and Conditions. The organization is committed to providing reasonable accommodations for individuals with disabilities throughout the recruitment process.