development of strategy and materials for Emergency Communication

Terms of Reference for development of strategy and materials for Emergency Communication

Individual consultancy

Post Title: Consultant – Emergency Communication

Fee: P3 level

Duty station: Juba, South Sudan

Duration: 5 months

Start Date: 6th Feb 2012

Reporting to: C4D Specialist

Background

South Sudan is the newest nation in the world on July 9 following a historic referendum in which the Southerners overwhelmingly voted for secession. The referendum was part of a 2005 Comprehensive Peace Agreement to end the two decade long war between the North and the South.

The independence, new country vision as well as the large displaced population due to the Abyei crisis and other tribal conflicts has put considerable challenge and pressure on the UNICEF South Sudan Country Programme. Already, a high degree of political and other tensions are apparent in the country with the UN -- and UNICEF as one of the larger agencies on the ground -- very much in the centre of events.

In 2011, there were a number of IEC materials such as SAFEWAYS developed for Communication for Development (C4D) in emergencies. The materials including radio and print materials continue to reach a mjaority of the affected population.

Upon review, it is felt that there is a absence of a comprehesive Emergency Communication Strategy and monitoring framework. This document will provide a clear guidance and direction to existing (Pibor, Abyei etc.) and future emergencies. In addition, there is an urgent need to to review the existing IEC materials to evaluate its effectiveness and adapt for immediate implementation.

With this in mind, UNICEF South Sudan needs to contract an experienced professional for a period of 5 months, beginning 1st week of Feb 2012.

Justification

Communication for behaviour and social change plays an essential part in an Emergency. A timely, well integrated and sustained communication response in emergency situations is necessary to ensure that affected caregivers, families and communities have access to accurate information and know about the services and supplies that prevent diseases, harm, abuse and exploitation. This is particularly important for the most vulnerable populations- which typically are children and women As part of the overall emergency response, C4D has put in place measures to address harmful practices through undertaking communication needs based on knowledge, beliefs, attitudes and practices. Effective roll out and coordination of emergency communication preparedness and response justifies the need for an experienced communication professional and fits within UNICEF SSCO’s Strategic communication programme for emergencies. This has been included in the contingency plan of the UNICEF SA programme for 2012.

Scope of work

1. Literature review of existing emergency communication documents and review of IEC materials.
2. Development of Emergency Communication Strategy (including a well-defined monitoring framework)
3. Organise and conduct a key stakeholders’ workshop for endorsement of the communication strategy.
4. Development of a social mobilisers guide for Emergencies
5. Support the effective coordination and implementation of emergency communication response to South Sudan
6. Ensure timely preparation and sharing of weekly/monthly/regular emergency communication updates for sitrep/etc. and support on fund raising proposals.
7. Support and guide partnerships with CSOs for effective face to face persuasion and support the design, rollout and monitoring of multi-channel communication initiatives on emergency.
8. Establish and oversee mechanism for production/timely distribution of strategic emergency communication materials/packages and institutionalize feedback on its utilisation and effectiveness
9. Support to organise different briefings, activities related to the emergency communication response

Organisational target(s)

It contributes to OTs 190, 290, 390. 490, 590

Reporting

The consultant will report directly to the C4D Specialist and work closely with the communication team. The position is based in Juba, with possible frequent travel to programme areas including those affected by conflict and influx of IDPs Expected Deliverables • Emergency Communication strategy developed and functional • Report on review of existing IEC materials (with recommendations) • Development of strategic communication materials and social mobilisers guide. • Regular field reports/updates from the district and media briefs on status of implementation.

Desired background and Experience

• Advanced university degree in C4D, social sciences, Public Health, or its equivalent with a strong background of working in communities. • Should have good communication and analytical skills. • Should have good knowledge of emergency communication, its urgency, coordination and equity implications. • A good knowledge of Monitoring and impact assessment of communication response is essential. • At least 3 years’ experience in the relevant field with specific skills in emergency communications interventions • Fluency in English and ability to write concise proposals and reports • Knowledge of the local languages will be an added advantage

Conditions (Important)

Terms and conditions to be included in the UNICEF contract.

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How to apply:

jubavacancies@unicef.org