The Open Society Initiative for Eastern Africa (OSIEA) promotes vibrant and inclusive democracies in Eastern Africa. Founded in 2005, OSIEA plays an active role in encouraging informed dialogue about issues of public importance. We promote democratic governance, justice, human rights, equality and non- discrimination, respect for rule of law and protection of rights of minorities. We play a key role in amplifying the voices that promote open society ideals. We do this by supporting individuals, organizations, coalitions, and movements. We do this through grant-making, research, and advocacy. OSIEA works in Kenya, Uganda, Tanzania, Sudan, South Sudan, and Rwanda.
OSIEA seeks to recruit a Program Officer in the Health Rights program.
Overall job purpose
In collaboration with two Open Society Foundation thematic programmes namely the Human Rights Initiative (HRI) and the Public Health Program (PHP); the Programme Officer’s core duties will entail provision of technical support in identification and foster of effective grantmaking relations in a dynamic, creative and committed manner with a focus on key populations.
Key Responsibilities
• Provide a bold vision for innovative work that will add value by identifying grant-making, operational, and advocacy strategies to advance health rights of key populations in Eastern Africa. Participate in the development of overall program strategy.
• Collaborate within and beyond the program team, including building partnerships beyond OSF, to develop knowledge content, identify emerging trends, and conduct strong field assessments employing a rights-based lens.
• Conduct relevant policy analysis in the region for internal and external audiences.
• Support identification of capacity and institutional development opportunities in partner organizations (grantees).
• Support network/coalition building for joint advocacy with grantees and constituents targeting governments, donor agencies, service providers, and the general public.
• Oversee administrative duties within the program and supervision of consultants.
Person specifications
• Advanced degree in a relevant field.
• At least six years’ relevant work experience.
• Strong written and verbal communication skills in English and one other East African language.
• Experience developing and implementing social change strategies through a rights-based approach and substantive knowledge of health rights issues in the Eastern Africa region.
• Experience in working with community-based groups in East Africa on public health and human rights issues relating to LGBTI, sex workers, People Who Use Drugs (PWUD) among others.
• Experience in grantmaking in East Africa.
• Knowledge of the Eastern Africa sexual rights context.
• NGO experience is desirable.
• Ability to manage several simultaneous projects in a fast-paced environment.
• Integrity, teamwork, diplomacy, and professionalism will be essential.
• Willingness to travel as needed.
