UN Volunteer for First Foods Africa Initiative

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 widespread and recognizable social welfare organizations worldwide. The agency's mission is to advocate for the protection of children's rights, to help meet their basic needs, and to expand their opportunities to reach their full potential. UNICEF's activities encompass a wide range of initiatives, including immunizations, disease prevention, maternal and child health, nutrition, education, and emergency relief efforts in response to disasters. The organization is committed to ensuring that every child has the opportunity to survive, thrive, and fulfill their potential, regardless of their circumstances.

Job Overview:
The UN Volunteer position is integral to the implementation of the First Foods Africa (FFA) initiative in Kenya, which aims to combat child food poverty and improve nutrition among children aged 6 to 59 months. The initiative focuses on three key pillars: supporting local food production, enhancing the policy and regulatory environment for nutritious food consumption, and stimulating demand for diverse, nutrient-rich foods. The UN Volunteer will work closely with the Social and Behaviour Change (SBC) Unit, contributing to the demand generation component of the initiative. This role involves designing and implementing strategies that align with national nutrition priorities, conducting behavioral analyses to understand food choices among caregivers and youth, and developing innovative campaigns to shift social norms around children's diets. The volunteer will also engage with various stakeholders, including government entities, civil society, and the private sector, to foster collaboration and enhance the effectiveness of nutrition communication efforts.

Duties and Responsibilities:
The UN Volunteer will undertake a variety of tasks under the supervision of the SBC Specialist and the FFA Manager. Key responsibilities include:

• Supporting the design and implementation of the demand generation component of the FFA initiative, ensuring alignment with national nutrition priorities.
• Conducting behavioral and consumer analyses to identify barriers and drivers influencing food choices and consumption patterns among caregivers and youth.
• Translating insights into audience-segmented demand generation strategies using evidence-based social marketing approaches.
• Developing innovative campaigns to increase demand for nutritious foods and shift social norms regarding children's diets.
• Creating messaging frameworks and content guidance for partners and implementing organizations.
• Facilitating co-creation processes with youth and communities to inform campaign design.
• Integrating demand-side strategies with other FFA pillars to ensure coherent alignment.
• Providing technical inputs to partner coordination platforms and stakeholder consultations.
• Supporting monitoring and learning by tracking behavioral indicators and documenting lessons learned. 1
• Contributing to knowledge products and donor updates related to SBC and demand generation results.

Required Qualifications:
Candidates for this position should possess a strong understanding of social and behavior change communication principles, as well as experience in nutrition, public health, or related fields. They should demonstrate excellent analytical skills, creativity in campaign design, and the ability to work collaboratively with diverse stakeholders. Strong communication skills, both written and verbal, are essential, as is the capacity to engage effectively with youth and community members. Familiarity with the local context and challenges related to food and nutrition security" style="border-bottom: 1px dotted #007bff !important;">security in Kenya is highly desirable. Additionally, candidates should be adaptable, flexible, and committed to continuous learning and professional development.

Educational Background:
A bachelor's degree in public health, nutrition, social sciences, or a related field is required for this position. Advanced degrees or specialized training in social and behavior change communication, public health, or nutrition will be considered an asset. Candidates should have a solid understanding of the principles of nutrition and food security, as well as experience in program implementation and evaluation.

Experience:
The ideal candidate should have at least 2-3 years of relevant experience in social and behavior change communication, public health, or nutrition-related programs. Experience working with children and families, particularly in the context of food and nutrition security, is highly valued. Familiarity with community engagement strategies and experience in campaign development and implementation will enhance the candidate's suitability for this role. Previous work with international organizations or NGOs, particularly in a volunteer capacity, is also beneficial.

Languages:
Fluency in English is mandatory for this position, as it is the primary language of communication within UNICEF and the UN system. Knowledge of Kiswahili is highly desirable, as it will facilitate engagement with local communities and stakeholders. Additional language skills may be considered an asset, particularly if they relate to the local context or the communities served by the FFA initiative.

Additional Notes:
The contract for this UN Volunteer position is for a specified duration, with the possibility of extension based on funding availability and satisfactory performance. The role is full-time, and the volunteer will receive a Volunteer Living Allowance (VLA) to cover basic living expenses. The VLA is calculated based on the cost of living in Kenya and is adjusted monthly. Volunteers may also receive a settling-in grant if they are new to the duty station. Additional benefits include life and health insurance, travel allowances for official duties, and a resettlement allowance upon completion of the assignment. The UNV program promotes diversity and encourages applications from qualified individuals regardless of gender, nationality, or cultural background.