FAO Regular Volunteer Programme for Africa

FAO Regular Volunteer Programme for Africa

Food and Agriculture Organization of the United Nations (FAO)

October 1, 2026January 1, 2027Multiple Duty Stations
Job Description
Job Posting Organization:
The Food and Agriculture Organization (FAO) of the United Nations is an international organization that leads global efforts to defeat hunger and ensure security" style="border-bottom: 1px dotted #007bff !important;">security" style="border-bottom: 1px dotted #007bff !important;">food security for all. Established in 1945, FAO has over 195 member countries and operates in more than 130 countries worldwide. The organization is dedicated to achieving food security and improving nutrition, promoting sustainable agriculture, and eradicating hunger. FAO's mission is to help eliminate hunger, food insecurity, and malnutrition, and it works towards transforming agri-food systems to be more efficient, inclusive, resilient, and sustainable. The organization emphasizes the importance of collaboration and volunteerism in achieving the UN Sustainable Development Goals, particularly in relation to food and agriculture.

Job Overview:
The FAO volunteer" style="border-bottom: 1px dotted #007bff !important;">Regular Volunteer Programme offers individuals the opportunity to contribute to the organization's mission by engaging in volunteer actions that align with the UN Sustainable Development Goals and FAO's Strategic Framework. Volunteers will be involved in activities that support the 2030 Agenda, focusing on creating better production systems, improving nutrition, and fostering a better environment. The role of a volunteer is to assist in various fields relevant to FAO's mission, and they will report to an assigned supervisor. This position is designed for individuals who are passionate about making a difference in the fight against hunger and food insecurity, and who are willing to work in a multicultural environment.

Duties and Responsibilities:
Volunteers will perform tasks as specified in the Terms of Reference (TOR) provided by the hiring office. Responsibilities may include supporting projects related to food security, assisting in research and data collection, participating in community outreach programs, and contributing to the development of educational materials. Volunteers are expected to engage with local communities, collaborate with other team members, and contribute to the overall goals of the FAO. They will also be involved in reporting on their activities and outcomes, ensuring that their contributions are aligned with FAO's objectives.

Required Qualifications:
Candidates must have completed secondary school education and possess a working knowledge of at least one FAO language, which includes Arabic, Chinese, English, French, Russian, or Spanish. Knowledge of a second FAO language is considered an asset. Candidates should be nationals of FAO member countries and must be at least 18 years old. Additionally, candidates should demonstrate the ability to adapt to an international multicultural environment and possess good communication skills. FAO values commitment, respect, and integrity, and candidates are expected to adhere to these values.

Educational Background:
The minimum educational requirement for this position is the completion of secondary school education. Candidates are encouraged to have additional qualifications or training relevant to the fields of food security, agriculture, nutrition, or related areas, which may enhance their application and effectiveness in the role.

Experience:
While specific prior experience is not mandatory, relevant working or research experience in fields related to FAO's mission is highly desirable. Candidates should demonstrate a willingness to learn and contribute to FAO's objectives, and any previous volunteer or community service experience will be viewed favorably.

Languages:
A working knowledge of at least one FAO language (Arabic, Chinese, English, French, Russian, or Spanish) is mandatory. Knowledge of a second FAO language is considered an asset and may enhance the candidate's ability to perform effectively in a multicultural environment.

Additional Notes:
This is a volunteer position, and FAO does not provide any remuneration to volunteers. The organization encourages applications from qualified female candidates, nationals of non- and under-represented member countries, and candidates from Low-Income Food-Deficit Countries (LIFDCs), Least Developed Countries (LDCs), Land-locked Developing Countries (LLDCs), and Small Island Developing States (SIDS). Selected candidates must have appropriate residence or immigration status in the proposed country of assignment prior to joining FAO. Candidates with family members employed by FAO under any contractual arrangement are not eligible for this program. FAO maintains a non-smoking environment and does not charge any fees during the recruitment process.
Apply now