Apply Now!! UNFPA Programme Specialist Job in Nairobi (P-3) @3)

If you are looking for an impactful career in global health and international development, the Programme Specialist (Governance) position at the United Nations Population Fund could be an excellent opportunity.

Based in Nairobi, Kenya, this role focuses on strengthening governance, partnerships, and communications within major global family planning initiatives.

Applications for this position close on 19 March 2026, making it an important opportunity for professionals passionate about reproductive health, policy development, and global development programmes.

About UNFPA

The United Nations Population Fund is the United Nations agency dedicated to sexual and reproductive health. Its mission is to create a world where:

• Every pregnancy is intended
• Every childbirth is safe
• Every young person’s potential is fulfilled

Through its Strategic Plan 2026–2029, UNFPA works to accelerate progress toward the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) and the Programme of Action from the International Conference on Population and Development.

The organization focuses on four major outcomes:

1. Ending the unmet need for family planning
2. Ending preventable maternal deaths
3. Ending gender-based violence and harmful practices
4. Adapting to demographic changes through rights-based policies and data

Professionals joining UNFPA contribute to global efforts to improve reproductive health systems and empower women and young people around the world.

Overview of the Programme Specialist (Governance) Role

The Programme Specialist (Governance) position is based in Nairobi, Kenya, within the Sexual and Reproductive Health and Rights Branch (SRHRB) of UNFPA’s Programme Division.

The role supports the UNFPA Supplies Partnership, one of the largest global health trust funds focused on family planning and maternal health. The initiative improves access to life-saving contraceptives and maternal health medicines in 54 low-income countries, reaching over 20 million women and girls each year.

Key details of the role include:

• Job Title: Programme Specialist (Governance)
• Grade: P-3
• Contract Type: Fixed Term Appointment
• Duty Station: Nairobi
• Job Category: Programme / Development
• Application Deadline: 19 March 2026

This role is ideal for professionals experienced in programme management, governance coordination, international development, and global health initiatives.

Key Responsibilities

The Programme Specialist will support governance structures, strengthen communication with partners, and assist with grant management activities.

1. Steering Committee and Subcommittee Coordination

A major responsibility is managing governance structures for the UNFPA Supplies Partnership. This includes:

• Coordinating meetings for the Steering Committee and subcommittees
• Preparing agendas, presentations, and briefing documents
• Supporting committee co-chairs in planning discussions and decisions
• Drafting and distributing meeting reports
• Organizing onboarding webinars for new committee members

The specialist will also collaborate with the partnerships team to strengthen relationships with donors and key stakeholders.

2. Governance Systems and Procedures

The role ensures that governance frameworks operate smoothly and efficiently. Key tasks include:

• Updating governance Terms of Reference (ToRs) to match evolving programme needs
• Tracking action items and data requests from governance meetings
• Managing the UNFPA Supplies Partnership Governance Calendar
• Ensuring all governance meetings occur at appropriate times throughout the year

These responsibilities help ensure transparency, accountability, and effective decision-making across the partnership.

3. Strategic Communications

Effective communication is essential to maintain trust with partners, donors, and stakeholders. The Programme Specialist will:

• Prepare briefing notes, statements, and talking points
• Develop presentations and background papers
• Create high-quality communication materials explaining the partnership’s structure and results
• Maintain a central repository of key messages
• Ensure online platforms and communication channels remain updated

These communications help partners clearly understand the value and impact of the UNFPA Supplies Partnership.

4. Grant and Project Management Support

The specialist will also support multi-stakeholder grants, including projects funded by the Bill & Melinda Gates Foundation.

Responsibilities include:

• Managing project timelines and deliverables
• Supporting grant-related meetings and reporting
• Coordinating with regional and headquarters teams
• Assisting programme leadership in managing grant activities

This ensures smooth collaboration between UNFPA and its global funding partners.

Required Qualifications and Experience

Candidates applying for the Programme Specialist role should meet the following criteria:

Education

An advanced university degree in fields such as:

• International relations
• Public health
• Management
• Economics
• Social sciences
• Social work
• Other related disciplines

Professional Experience

Applicants should have at least five years of relevant experience, preferably in areas such as:

• Family planning programmes
• Reproductive health
• International development
• Public health policy
• Programme management

Strong communication skills are essential, especially the ability to translate complex technical information into clear messages for donors and policymakers.

Proficiency with tools like Microsoft Office and Google Workspace is also required.

Language Requirements

• Fluency in English is required
• Knowledge of additional UN languages is considered an advantage

Why Work at UNFPA?

UNFPA offers a dynamic work environment focused on diversity, inclusion, and professional development.

Benefits include:

• Competitive international salary package
• Health insurance and other benefits
• Opportunities to work on global development programmes
• A workplace that promotes gender equality and diversity

The organization actively encourages applications from women, people with disabilities, minority communities, and underrepresented groups.

APPLY NOW

The Programme Specialist (Governance) role at UNFPA offers a unique opportunity to contribute to global reproductive health initiatives. By supporting governance systems, strengthening partnerships, and improving communications, the role helps expand access to family planning and maternal health services worldwide.

For professionals committed to international development and public health, this Nairobi-based position represents a chance to make a meaningful global impact while working within one of the United Nations’ most influential agencies.

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Disclaimer: Global South Opportunities (GSO) is not the organization that is hiring. For any inquiries, please contact the official organization directly. Please do not send your applications & CVs to GSO, as we are unable to process them. Due to the high volume of emails, we receive daily, we may not be able to respond to all inquiries. Thank you for your understanding.