CONFLICT PREVENTION AND PEACEBUILDING OFFICER Full-time Job

Mission and objectives

UNDP works in more than 170 countries and territories, helping to achieve the eradication of poverty and the reduction of inequalities and exclusion. We help countries develop policies, leadership skills, partnering abilities, institutional capabilities and build resilience to sustain development results. UNDP has been present in Malawi since 1964. Working closely with the Government of Malawi, civil society and the private sector, UNDP’ s work aims to contribute to economic growth, sustainable environmental management, and democratic governance and accountability in Malawi. UNDP’s Country Programme Document is closely aligned to the Malawi Growth and Development Strategy (MDGS III) and supports Malawi’s aim to achieve the Sustainable Development Goals by 2030. UNDP ‘s programme is designed to address the interlinked issues of poverty, inequality and vulnerability to shocks and is managed within two portfolios: Responsive Institutions and Citizen Engagement which works towards strengthening effective, accountable and inclusive governance that promotes civic engagement, respect for human rights, rule of law, peace and democracy. It also works towards strengthening data generation and analysis. Resilience and Sustainable Growth which focusses on enhancing economic innovation, inclusive business, job creation, and renewable energy access. It also works towards helping Malawi adapt to climate change and build resilience to disasters.

Context

UNDP Malawi has been supporting the Government of Malawi in operationalizing National Peace Architecture through the establishment of Malawi Peace and Unity Commission (MPUC) and District Peace and Unity Committees (DPUCs) to strengthen institutional capacities for conflict prevention under Social Cohesion programme. In coordination with other UN agencies, UNDP will implement conflict prevention and peacebuilding projects funded by the SDG-Accelerator Fund, Peacebuilding Fund and the Japanese Supplementary Budget. In this context, the UNDP Governance Portfolio is looking for candidates with experience in implementing programming in the field of conflict prevention and peacebuilding to support the delivery of the social cohesion programme at UNDP Malawi.

Task description

Within the delegated authority and under the supervision of the Portfolio Manager, Governance or his/her designated mandated representative(s), the UNV Conflict Prevention and Peacebuilding Officer will:

• Facilitate day-to-day implementation of programme/project activities.
• Support the timely delivery of the programme workplans.
• Support the development of timely reporting, including internal and donor reports.
• Support administrative requirements for the timely delivery of project activities, including procurement, travel and finance arrangements.
• Organize and attend project-related meetings and missions.
• Coordinate with administrative and project staff for project activities.
• Contribute to the development of procurement plans and follows up on the status of procurements to implement project activities.
• Facilitating coordination among the Ministry, NPUC and DPUC members, TAs and community members toward the operationalization of MPUC and DPUCs.
• Support the collection of conflict data and analysis.
• Develop and deliver high-quality public information to highlight UNDP’s work in peacebuilding and conflict prevention in cooperation with UNDP comms team.
• Any other related tasks as may be required or assigned by the supervisor.

Furthermore, UN Volunteers are encouraged to integrate the UN Volunteers programme mandate within their assignment and promote voluntary action through engagement with communities in the course of their work. As such, UN Volunteers should dedicate a part of their working time to some of the following suggested activities:

• Strengthen their knowledge and understanding of the concept of volunteerism by reading relevant UNV and external publications and take active part in UNV activities (for instance in events that mark International Volunteer Day)
• Be acquainted with and build on traditional and/or local forms of volunteerism in the host country.
• Provide annual and end of assignment self-reports on UN Volunteer actions, results and opportunities.
• Contribute articles/write-ups on field experiences and submit them for UNV publications/websites, newsletters, press releases, etc.
• Assist with the UNV Buddy Programme for newly arrived UN Volunteers
• Promote or advise local groups in the use of online volunteering or encourage relevant local individuals and organizations to use the UNV Online Volunteering service whenever technically possible.

Required experience

• 3 years of experience in development, governance and/or conflict prevention and peacebuilding or other relevant programmes at the national and/or international level
• Hands-on knowledge and experience in conflict prevention and peacebuilding in Malawi is an asset.
• Excellent oral and written skills; excellent drafting, formulation, reporting skills.
• Accuracy and professionalism in document production and editing.
• Excellent interpersonal skills; culturally and socially sensitive; ability to work inclusively and collaboratively with a range of partners, including grassroots community members, religious and youth organizations, and authorities at different levels; familiarity with tools and approaches of communications for development.
• Ability to work and adapt professionally and effectively in a challenging environment; ability to work effectively in a multicultural team of international and national personnel.
• Solid overall computer literacy, including proficiency in various MS Office applications (Excel, Word, etc.) and email/internet; familiarity with database management; and office technology equipment.
• Self-motivated, ability to work with minimum supervision; ability to work with tight deadlines.
• Sound security awareness. Have affinity with or interest in governance, peacebuilding and volunteerism as a mechanism for durable development and the UN System.

Languages

English, Level: Working knowledge, Required
Chichewa, Level: Mother tongue, Required

Required education level

Bachelor degree or equivalent in Public Policy, Political Sciences, Conflict Prevention or related areas