● The National UNV Humanitarian Communication Specialist will contribute to strengthening humanitarian communications in the UNFPA Regional Office for West and Central Africa (WCARO)..
● He/she will contribute and provide technical assistance to country offices to build capacity for humanitarian communications.
● He/she will support the implementation of the regional communication and advocacy strategic plan and monitor impact.
● He/she will be passionate and have experience in media outreach, and developing engaging content and campaigns for digital channels that improve the visibility of UNFPA’s humanitarian responses in the WCA region.
● He/she will keep abreast of new developments and opportunities in the field of sexual and reproductive health and rights, gender-based violence and humanitarian aid, and be skilled in critical analysis and strategic thinking.

Under the direct supervision of Regional Communication Adviser, the UN University Volunteer will undertake the following tasks:

● Contribute to the development of the annual humanitarian communications strategy and work plan in the region.
● Participate in supporting countries in the region with the development of humanitarian communications and content.
● Contribute to the development and publication of regional and country situation reports.
● Support with the production of compelling content for traditional and digital channels, including the media – press releases/statements, UNFPA website, social media channels, newsletters, press releases, alerts and videos; and monitor impact.
● Collect key articles and data on humanitarian issues in the region to support communication materials and improve visibility of the humanitarian situation in the region.
● Contribute to ensuring UNFPA’s presence on humanitarian communication platforms including the regional Humanitarian Advocacy and Communications Technical Working Group.
● Provide updates on a regular basis and at a frequency determined by the Regional Office Communications Advisor for West and Central Africa.
● Contribute to the implementation of the regional communication and advocacy strategy.

Furthermore, UN Volunteers are required to:

● 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;
● Reflect on the type and quality of voluntary action that they are undertaking, including participation in ongoing reflection activities;
● 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 organisations to use the UNV Online Volunteering service whenever technically possible.

☒ Accountability
☒ Adaptability and Flexibility
☒ Client Orientation
☒ Communication
☒ Creativity
☒ Ethics and Values
☒ Integrity
☒ Knowledge Sharing
☒ Leadership
☒ Professionalism
☒ Respect for Diversity
☒ Self-Management
☒ Technological Awareness
☒ Working in Teams

● Proven professional experience as a humanitarian communications specialist
● Previous experience with the United Nations, in particular UNFPA, is an advantage
● Ability to edit messages, photos and videos
● Excellent verbal and written communication skills
● Capacity in writing articles and social media posts
● Excellent interpersonal and presentation skills
● Knowledge of online marketing
● Good computer skills
● Proven ability to work in a team
● Previous experience as a volunteer and/or experience of another culture, (i.e. studies, volunteer work, internship) would be highly regarded.

The assignment will take place in the nation’s capital, Dakar, a family duty station (Hardship classification A) with missions to the region. Dakar is a liveable city. The spontaneous reception and hospitality of the Senegalese are among the characteristic features of this West African country. The living conditions in Dakar are good, as well as the access to health services. The yellow fever vaccine is compulsory; vaccination cards should be presented at the entrance. Vaccinations against Meningococcal Meningitis and Hepatitis A and B are also recommended. The basic drugs are available in pharmacies, but it is recommended to bring specific prescription drugs.
According to official estimates from ANSD/RGPHAE 2023, the Dakar metropolitan area population reaches over 3,9 million. The total population of Senegal is 18,032,473 inhabitants (ANSD 2023). Senegal is located on UTC/ GMT. Senegal has a warm climate and sunny days throughout the year that make it a comfortable duty station. Daytime temperatures are, on average, around 30°C. The rainy season is in the northern hemisphere’s summer/fall.
The currency used in Senegal is called Franc CFA (XOF). On 1st January 2024, the average exchange rate is 1 USD = 602,577 XOF. Many hotels, restaurants and businesses in Senegal accept the leading international credit cards (Visa, MasterCard, American Express, etc.). It is also possible to withdraw cash from automatic telling machines found in all the major cities. The accommodation facilities are in general good, and the choice is vast. Renting unfurnished and furnished accommodations from 450 to 2000 USD is possible. UN Volunteers can also co-rent and share private concessions, which must comply with Minimum Operating Residential Security Standards (MORSS). Local taxis can easily arrange Transportation in town.
A valid passport is required to enter Senegal. ECOWAS (Economic Community of West African States) nationals are not required to have an entry visa. Citizens of other countries may be required for an entry or long-stay visa. They should contact the closest Senegalese representation. Senegalese Embassies and consulates in various West African countries and other parts of the world issue visas before travel.