Communication for Development (C4D) Specialist (Polio Eradication), P-3, Kinshasa, DRC (Temporary Appointment 364 days)

Job Number: 528409 | Vacancy Link

Locations: Africa: Congo, Dem. Rep

Work Type : Temporary Appointment

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The DRC was declared free of wild poliovirus circulation on 26 November 2015, however, the nation has been experiencing an epidemic of poliovirus derived from the type 2 vaccine strain since 8 May 2017.  This has resulted in a total of 79 confirmed cases of cVDPV2 to date, including 22 in 2017, 20 in 2018 and 37 in 2019.  For 2019, 37 cases of cVDPV2 were confirmed in Haut Lomami (11), Kasai (8), Tshuapa (1), Kasai Oriental (1) and Sankuru (16) provinces. The date of the beginning of paralysis of the last case is 02 September 2019 in the Kinkondja health zone.  Vaccine responses have been conducted in Haut Lomami, Haut Katanga, Tanganyika and Tshopo, Tshuapa Mongala provinces (Round 1& 2) when the response, round 2 for Bena Dibele’s response is ongoing.

In order to provide an adequate response to new cases and in accordance with the new Standard Operating Procedures (SOPs), CRCA guidelines, and in collaboration with the various partners, The Polio initiative is pursuing vaccination responses in all provinces concerned.

As part of the organization of these responses, a plan has been developed that takes into account both mass Polio vaccination as well as strengthening routine immunization, including strengthening vaccine management and cold chain. To support the country’s efforts, UNICEF deploys human resources, particularly in the areas of Communication for Development (C4D) and vaccine and cold chain management, which are part of UNICEF’s overall mandate.

Faced with these cVDPV2 outbreaks, which occur simultaneously and have a heterogeneous spatial distribution, the country currently has 4 blocks called « cVDPV2 epidemic blocks ».

– Katanga Block (15 HZ)

– Equator block (7 HZ)

– Kasai Block (13 HZ)

– Kwango Block ( 61 HZ)

In DRC, key needs to improving immunization coverage include closer collaboration with unreached populations, especially during routine immunization and SIA campaigns. Challenges include the lack of infrastructure, physical access, and insecurity. In addition, children continue to be missed due to refusals and absences (despite their awareness of the campaigns), weak accountabilities in community engagement, poorly functional health facilities and unstable cold-chain infrastructure.

How can you make a difference?

The current quantity and capacities of C4D staff over the widely affected territories is limited. The C4D Polio section needs additional support to ensure improved accountabilities, more efficient coordination, stronger leadership, and improved evidence-based reporting and monitoring at all levels.

The position will be positioned under the direct guidance of both the UNICEF Polio Coordinator as well as the Chief of the Communication for Development section. Responsibilities include:

Provide technical advice and assistance to all aspects related to communications and advocacy in the polio eradication initiative.

Oversee the design, field-testing, scaling up and monitoring of innovative communication strategies in collaboration with UNICEF sections and government program officers. This includes design, management, and implementation of evidence-based communication strategies and plans of action aiming at: (1) behavior change at individual/household levels; (2) social mobilization of civil society organizations; and (3) increased community participation in EPI and polio eradication programs.

In collaboration with partners, develop, organize and manage necessary formative research, pre-testing, and production of culturally relevant communication materials to ensure effective and efficient program delivery and behavior change. Also, assist in the validation of recently completed Polio communication materials and the film on the role of the CACs in campaigns.

Support the design and implementation of a coherent UNICEF work and operational plan on polio eradication targeting the public and donors; including analysis of provincial proposals in relation to available funding for the first half of 2020.

Contribute to the M&E of communication strategies including design, field testing, compilation, and dissemination of experiences and lessons learned.  Assure quality monitoring, evaluation, and reporting on EPI and polio eradication activities through country-specific and globally established tracking mechanisms.

Report frequently to supervisors and interact with both UNICEF regional office and HQ on all aspects of polio eradication. This includes dissemination of reports and communication findings, and share experiences and methodologies with government officials, EPI and polio staff, and other UNICEF partners. Continue technical exchanges with all stoppers and C4D staff deployed in various provinces for input and quality reporting. Participate in national coordination activities during the national immunization days.

Participate in the recruitment process of 20 local consultants who will be dedicated to conducting communication activities in affected health zones (with special focus on populations refractory to vaccination).

Participate in budget planning and management of program funds and submit a financial plan for C4D initiatives. Approve the use of resources as planned and verify compliance with organizational guidelines, rules and regulations and standards of ethics and transparency.

DELIVERABLES

Reports from Polio coordination meetings both internal and external with partners, and responsible for addressing and reporting on recommended action points.

Reports from coordination TC calls both internal and external including the development of a summary report every two weeks to be shared with Polio coordinator, RO, and HQ.

A national strategic guidance note on the implementation of the C4D Polio work-plan, and share and discuss with the Polio team and concerned field offices.

Documented assurance that funding, IEC materials, and C4D technical assistance will arrive to participating provinces at least 10 days before the launch of Polio campaigns.

Travel reports to provinces for strengthened coordination with partners, follow-up on commitments, quality assurance of interventions, and provide technical assistance where needed.

Reporting, participation, and negotiation in the recruitment of all C4D consultants, stoppers, and local staff.

Provide partner reports that all Polio communication materials have been conceived, pretested, produced and disseminated to the field.

Biannual and Annual reports are prepared and shared according to UNICEF and donor guidance.

Participate in budget planning and management of program funds and submit a financial plan for C4D initiatives. Approve the use of resources as planned and verify compliance with organizational guidelines, rules and regulations and standards of ethics and transparency.

Manage and supervision of staff with regular coaching, supervision, PER, and evaluation.

To qualify as an advocate for every child you will have…

An advanced university degree (Master’s or higher) in behavioral and/or social sciences (anthropology, sociology, psychology, social development, etc.) or public health. Understanding of – or training in – current developments in the field of communication for development theory and research, participatory processes, media; as also strategic communication planning, behavior analysis, formative research, and evaluation

*A first University Degree in a relevant field combined with 2 additional years of professional experience may be accepted in lieu of an Advanced University Degree.

A minimum of [5] five of relevant professional experience in C4D, of which at least 3 years in emergency contexts or dealing with emergency issues.

Proven experience in coordinating and/or facilitating multi-agency C4D preparedness and response in emergencies. Experience in emergency response to outbreaks (Ebola, Cholera, etc.) or understanding of outbreak/risk communications and dealing with the media is an asset

Knowledge of and experience in the social, political and economic environment of West and Central Africa will be an asset

Fluency in English and French is required. Knowledge of another official UN language (Arabic, Chinese, French, Russian or Spanish) or a local language is an asset.

For every Child, you demonstrate…

UNICEF’s values of Care, Respect, Integrity, Trust, and Accountability (CRITA) and core competencies in Communication, Working with People and Drive for Results.

The functional competencies required for this post are :

Core Values:

Diversity and Inclusion

Integrity

Commitment

Core Competencies

Communication

Working with People

Drive for Results

Functional Competencies

Leading and Supervising

Adapting and responding to change

Planning and Organizing

Formulating Strategies and Concepts

Relating and Networking

WORKING CONDITIONS

The post is based in Kinshasa, DRC. Occasional travel is required for field and partner visits to provinces needing technical or team support.  Transportation and security will be strictly controlled, monitored and managed by UN, UNICEF and local security regulations.  All travel of UNICEF staff must be authorized and planned by security commission. A staff member is expected to be adequately briefed on safety measures to reduce personal risks to infection.

View our competency framework at http://www.unicef.org/about/employ/files/UNICEF_Competencies.pdf

UNICEF is committed to diversity and inclusion within its workforce, and encourages all candidates, irrespective of gender, nationality, religious and ethnic backgrounds, including persons living with disabilities, to apply to become a part of the organization.

UNICEF has a zero-tolerance policy on conduct that is incompatible with the aims and objectives of the United Nations and UNICEF, including sexual exploitation and abuse, sexual harassment, abuse of authority and discrimination. UNICEF also adheres to strict child safeguarding principles. All selected candidates will, therefore, undergo rigorous reference and background checks, and will be expected to adhere to these standards and principles.

Remarks:

Mobility is a condition of international professional employment with UNICEF and an underlying premise of the international civil service.

Only shortlisted candidates will be contacted and advance to the next stage of the selection process.

Closing Date Sun Jan 26 2020 23:55:00 GMT+0100 (Afr. centrale Ouest)