Programme Assistant - Sexual and Reproductive Health and Rights

Job Posting Organization:
The United Nations Population Fund (UNFPA) is the UN's reproductive health agency that focuses on population issues and aims to expand the possibilities for women and young people to lead healthy sexual and reproductive lives. Established to address global reproductive health challenges, UNFPA operates in over 150 countries, advocating for the rights and opportunities of individuals, particularly women and youth. The organization works through partnerships with governments, civil society, and the private sector to improve lives and ensure that reproductive health remains a central issue in development agendas. UNFPA's mission includes accelerating universal access to sexual and reproductive health services, including family planning and safe motherhood, and utilizing population data to anticipate future challenges. The organization has made significant progress in reducing maternal mortality and unwanted pregnancies, but recognizes the need for continued efforts to create a world where every pregnancy is wanted and every childbirth is safe.

Job Overview:
The Programme Assistant will play a crucial role in supporting UNFPA Mozambique's humanitarian response efforts, particularly in light of the ongoing humanitarian crises exacerbated by climatic shocks and violence in the northern regions of the country. This position involves providing programmatic and administrative support for the development and implementation of UNFPA’s Humanitarian Programme. The Programme Assistant will work closely with the humanitarian team in Maputo and field offices, ensuring compliance with established rules and procedures while contributing to effective program implementation. The role includes supporting the execution of projects aimed at increasing access to family planning services and improving maternal health outcomes, particularly in vulnerable populations. The Programme Assistant will also engage in monitoring and reporting activities, resource mobilization efforts, and collaboration with various stakeholders to enhance the impact of UNFPA’s initiatives in Mozambique.

Duties and Responsibilities:

• Programme Management Support: Assist in the implementation of projects by conducting budget analysis, monitoring project progress, and reporting on sexual and reproductive health-related interventions. Manage administrative tasks such as fund allocation, procurement requests, and maintaining records of donor agreements. Compile lessons learned and best practices to inform future programming.
• Monitoring and Reporting: Analyze data to identify trends in needs and response gaps, compile reports on program progress, and prepare updates for donors and partners.
• Resource Mobilization: Support resource mobilization efforts by providing inputs for donor reports, taking minutes during donor meetings, and assisting in the development of new proposals.
• Other Tasks: Undertake any additional tasks as assigned by the supervisor, ensuring alignment with UNFPA’s objectives and compliance with organizational policies.

Required Qualifications:
Candidates should possess strong organizational skills, attention to detail, and the ability to work collaboratively in a team environment. Proficiency in project management and administrative support is essential. Familiarity with humanitarian response frameworks and sexual and reproductive health issues is highly desirable. Candidates should demonstrate a commitment to UNFPA’s mission and values, including respect for diversity and a client-oriented approach.

Educational Background:
A bachelor’s degree in public health, social sciences, international development, or a related field is required. Advanced degrees are preferred and may be considered an asset for candidates with relevant experience.

Experience:
Candidates should have at least 2 years of relevant experience in program management, administration, or a related field, preferably within a humanitarian context. Experience working with UN agencies or international organizations is an advantage. Familiarity with sexual and reproductive health issues and humanitarian response mechanisms is also beneficial.

Languages:
Fluency in Portuguese is mandatory, as it is the official language of Mozambique. Proficiency in English is highly desirable, particularly for communication in business and academic settings. Knowledge of local languages may also be advantageous.

Additional Notes:
This position is categorized as a UN Volunteer assignment, which typically involves a commitment to serve for a specified duration. The role is full-time and may require flexibility in working hours to accommodate project needs. The living conditions in Maputo include access to various accommodation options, with a vibrant international community. The cost of living is relatively moderate, with reasonable prices for food and housing. An entry visa is required for international candidates, and the local currency is the metical.