Project Officer - Social Behaviour Change and Communication

Are you ready for a challenge to help bring lasting health change in Africa?  Come join a dynamic team if you are organized, highly motivated and results oriented individual in the position of Project Officer (SBSS).  Under the Child and Reproductive Health Programme with a funding from CIDA through Micronutrient Initiative, the project will be implemented in Kakamega Central, Mumias and Matungu districts, Western Kenya.  The Project will focus on maternal and newborn health and nutrition interventions working in collaboration with PRONTO International, Ministries of Health and the University of Nairobi, Applied Nutrition Program.

The position reports to the Project Manager and is based in Kakamega.

Purpose of the Job:

To provide technical support in the implementation of Behavior Change and Communication activities, identify and design appropriate strategies to address barriers to SBCC change.

Key Responsibilities:

• Providing technical support to the Community Health Workers (CHWs), Community Health Extension Workers (CHEWs), TBAs and District/County health teams to design BCC services in line with each county needs.
• Developing strategies to address local beliefs and practices that hinder uptake of ANC, new born care practices and maternal health and nutrition by working with TBAs, CHWs, and CSOs.
• Providing capacity building for various teams to enable them design and implement effective MNCH activities.
• Targeting men and elders who enforce the cultural practices that prevent women from receiving modern health care BCC messages.
• Identifying and engaging with custodians of culture and work with CHWs and TBAs to advance adoption of key MNH practices at community level.
• Working with partners to mainstream/address underlying issues including gender, human and legal rights, and harmful traditional practices among others.
• Support the Local Implementing Partners (LIPs) and District/County Health Teams in translation of key IEC materials into the local languages.
• Assist in preparation of quality monthly, quarterly and annual reports relating to the project as per donor requirements.
• Provide technical support in development and writing of concepts and proposals for research, documentation and fund raising.
•  Support in the development/adoption of SBCC tool kits

Qualifications and Competencies:

The ideal candidate should have a first degree in Social Sciences or its equivalent.  Must be ICT proficient.  At least four (4) years relevant work experience in BCC and health promotion field.  The candidate should have proven abilities in mainstreaming gender, human and legal rights.  Experience in community mobilization, advocacy and collaboration with key stakeholders are essential.  Should be a team player, work under minimum supervision and a good communicator.

If you believe you fit the profile, please submit your application letter and CV that includes contract details of three work related referees to the Human Resources Manager, AMREF Kenya by e-mail to recruitment@amref.org.  Quote the position and reference number (KCO/MIP/001/2013) in the subject matter.  The closing date for submitting applications is Friday, 22nd March, 2013.  We regret that only short-listed candidates will be contacted.

Please do not attach certificates and testimonials to your application.

You are not required to pay any fees to apply for jobs in AMREF.

AMREF is an equal opportunity employer and has a non-smoking environment policy.