Risk Communication and Community Engagement Specialist

Job Posting Organization:
The World Health Organization (WHO) was established in 1948 as a specialized agency of the United Nations. Its mission is to connect nations, partners, and people to promote health, keep the world safe, and serve the vulnerable. The organization operates globally, advocating for universal health care coverage, monitoring public health risks, coordinating responses to health emergencies, and promoting health and well-being. WHO provides technical assistance to countries, sets international health standards, and collects data on global health issues, with a focus on ensuring that everyone, everywhere can attain the highest level of health.

Job Overview:
The Risk Communication and Community Engagement Specialist will play a crucial role in supporting the national and district-level implementation of Risk Communication and Community Engagement (RCCE) strategies in response to the Bundibugyo Ebola Virus Disease (BEVD) outbreaks in Uganda. This position involves ensuring effective coordination, community mobilization, and real-time information sharing during various phases of preparedness, outbreak response, and recovery. The specialist will work closely with the WHO/RCCE Pillar Lead and will be responsible for developing and updating RCCE preparedness and response plans, providing technical assistance to health teams, and strengthening community structures to enhance public health communication and engagement.

Duties and Responsibilities:
The duties and responsibilities of the Risk Communication and Community Engagement Specialist include:

• Planning and Coordination: Supporting the development and updating of RCCE preparedness and response plans and budgets for BEVD, and providing technical assistance to the National Task Force and District Health Teams in implementing RCCE strategies.
• Strengthening Community Structures: Establishing and strengthening RCCE coordination structures at various administrative levels and facilitating coordination between RCCE, surveillance, infection prevention and control, and case management teams.
• Community Engagement and Mobilization: Mapping and engaging key community influencers, supporting capacity building of schools and organized groups on BEVD prevention, and mobilizing political and administrative leaders for community sensitization efforts.
• Risk Communication: Identifying appropriate community communication channels, ensuring the dissemination of accurate and culturally appropriate messages, and distributing Information, Education and Communication materials.
• Targeting High-Risk Groups: Mapping high-risk communities and ensuring tailored outreach for vulnerable populations.
• Community-Based Surveillance and Feedback: Promoting early detection and reporting of suspected cases, establishing community feedback mechanisms, and supporting rumor tracking and analysis.
• Monitoring, Supervision, and Reporting: Conducting regular supervision of RCCE structures, monitoring implementation of activities, participating in coordination meetings, and preparing timely reports.

Required Qualifications:
The position requires a strong background in public health, communication, or a related field. Candidates should possess excellent interpersonal and communication skills, with the ability to engage effectively with diverse communities and stakeholders. A demonstrated understanding of health communication principles and experience in community engagement strategies are essential. Additionally, candidates should have experience in emergency response settings and the ability to work under pressure in challenging environments.

Educational Background:
A relevant educational background is essential for this position. Candidates should ideally hold a degree in public health, communication, social sciences, or a related field. Advanced degrees or specialized training in health communication or community engagement would be advantageous and may enhance a candidate's suitability for the role.

Experience:
Candidates should have a minimum of 3-5 years of professional experience in public health communication, community engagement, or a related field. Experience working in emergency response situations, particularly in infectious disease outbreaks, is highly desirable. Familiarity with the health system in Uganda and previous work with international organizations or NGOs would be beneficial.

Languages:
Fluency in English is mandatory for this position, as it is the primary language of communication within the organization and with stakeholders. Knowledge of local languages spoken in Uganda would be considered an asset, as it would facilitate better engagement with communities and enhance the effectiveness of communication efforts.

Additional Notes:
The position may involve mission travel to remote or high-risk areas with limited infrastructure. Candidates should be flexible, resilient, and willing to work under emergency conditions. The role may be full-time and could require working outside of regular hours during outbreaks or emergencies. Compensation and benefits will be discussed during the recruitment process.