International UN Volunteer

Job Posting Organization:
The United Nations Human Settlements Programme, known as UN-Habitat, is the agency responsible for promoting socially and environmentally sustainable towns and cities. Established by the UN General Assembly, its mission is to provide adequate shelter for all and to coordinate human settlement activities within the United Nations System. UN-Habitat collaborates with governments and various partners, including local authorities and non-governmental organizations, to implement the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), particularly Goal 11, which focuses on making cities inclusive, safe, resilient, and sustainable. The organization has been pivotal in the development of the New Urban Agenda, adopted during the Habitat III conference in Quito, Ecuador, in 201

• UN-Habitat operates globally, with numerous projects aimed at enhancing urban living conditions and addressing housing challenges.

Job Overview:
The International UN Volunteer will play a crucial role in supporting the implementation of the Partnership Implementing the New Urban Agenda (PINUA) project in Kenya, which aims to address the affordable housing gap in the country. This position involves collaborating closely with various stakeholders, including government officials and consultants, to consolidate and document data related to housing and slum upgrading. The volunteer will assist in aligning this data with the Government of Kenya’s Affordable Housing Programme, ensuring consistency with UN-Habitat’s project data. Additionally, the volunteer will contribute to the development of knowledge products, such as reports and manuals, and support the monitoring and evaluation of projects within the Kenya Country Programme. The role requires a proactive approach to knowledge management, including the creation of strategies for effective data collection and dissemination, as well as the incorporation of innovative tools and technologies to enhance project outcomes.

Duties and Responsibilities:

• Support the consolidation and documentation of data and information in the Kenya Country Office by collecting, organizing, and documenting data from housing and slum upgrading specialists. This includes baseline surveys, analytics, financial models, and community engagement strategies.
• Align documented data with the Government of Kenya’s Affordable Housing Programme to support policy harmonization and ensure consistency with UN-Habitat project data.
• Develop relevant knowledge products, including reports, presentations, and guides, ensuring compliance with legal and regulatory requirements.
• Participate in the development of a comprehensive Knowledge Management and dissemination strategy, outlining systems for collecting, storing, and sharing best practices.
• Support stakeholder mapping and facilitate networking among national and regional stakeholders to enhance collaboration.
• Provide feedback on new tools and technologies to improve knowledge management and dissemination strategies.
• Assist in the production of UN-Habitat’s normative work on housing and urban development.

Required Qualifications:
Candidates must possess strong analytical and organizational skills, with a demonstrated ability to work collaboratively in a team environment. Proficiency in data management and knowledge sharing platforms is essential. Familiarity with housing and urban development issues, particularly in the context of sustainable development, is highly desirable. The ability to communicate effectively with diverse stakeholders, including government officials and community members, is crucial for this role. Additionally, candidates should exhibit adaptability and flexibility in their approach to problem-solving and project implementation.

Educational Background:
A degree in urban planning, social sciences, environmental studies, or a related field is required. Advanced degrees or specialized training in housing and urban development, knowledge management, or related areas will be considered an asset. Candidates should have a strong understanding of the principles of sustainable development and the challenges facing urban areas, particularly in developing countries.

Experience:
Candidates should have at least 2-3 years of relevant experience in urban planning, housing, or knowledge management. Experience working with international organizations, particularly in the context of the United Nations or similar entities, is highly advantageous. Familiarity with the Kenyan context and experience in stakeholder engagement and collaboration will be beneficial for this position.

Languages:
Fluency in English is mandatory, as it is the primary language of communication within UN-Habitat and the Kenya Country Programme. Knowledge of Kiswahili or other local languages is considered a valuable asset, as it can facilitate better communication with local stakeholders and communities.

Additional Notes:
This position is a full-time role as an International UN Volunteer, with a focus on the duration of the assignment being determined by project needs. The volunteer will be expected to work closely with their supervisor to develop a work plan that outlines key objectives and activities. The living conditions in Kenya, particularly in Nairobi, are generally favorable, with access to essential services and a diverse cultural environment. The volunteer will receive support and guidance from UN-Habitat staff and will have opportunities for professional development and learning throughout their assignment.