UNFPA in South Africa is hiring a Programme Assistant (Monthly Allowance – R22,926.08): Apply!
The United Nations Population Fund (UNFPA) is the UN agency dedicated to sexual and reproductive health and rights. Our mission is to create a world where every pregnancy is wanted, every childbirth is safe, and every young person’s potential is fulfilled.
UNFPA strives to achieve universal access to sexual and reproductive health, uphold reproductive rights, and reduce maternal mortality, advancing progress on the International Conference on Population and Development (ICPD) agenda. Our work is driven by a commitment to adolescents, youth, and women, guided by population dynamics, human rights, and gender equality.
To accelerate global impact, UNFPA has set three transformative goals:
1. Ending the unmet need for family planning
2. Ending preventable maternal deaths
3. Ending gender-based violence and harmful practices
Recognizing the power of innovation, UNFPA is harnessing new solutions to reach the most vulnerable populations. We focus on:
Strengthening innovation systems and capabilities
– Scaling up proven, high-impact solutions
– Building strategic partnerships and innovation ecosystems
– Expanding funding for innovative approaches
– Fostering a culture of creativity and collaboration
Context
As an international development agency, UNFPA champions the right of every woman, man, and child to a life of health, dignity, and equal opportunity. Our key priorities include:
🔹 Raising awareness about population challenges and solutions
🔹 Providing aid to developing countries
🔹 Coordinating efforts across UN agencies and global partners
🔹 Preventing and responding to gender-based violence (GBV)
🔹 Eliminating harmful practices, including FGM and child marriage
🔹 Engaging men and boys to promote gender equality
The East and Southern Africa Regional Office (ESARO) leads innovation mainstreaming across 23 countries in the region, working to accelerate progress on our Transformative Goals.
As part of this mission, the UN Volunteer (UNV) will join the Innovation and Programme Coordination Unit (PCU) to provide technical and programmatic support, particularly for the Zonta Foundation-funded Climate Innovation Project. The Programme Assistant will work closely with PCU, EKI Programme Associates, and the International Operations Manager (IOM) to ensure efficient operations and administration across regional initiatives.
Role & Responsibilities
The Programme Assistant plays a vital role in programme, administrative, and financial support, particularly in implementing donor-funded projects. Key responsibilities include:
Programme & Operational Support
– Assist the programme team in coordinating with Country Offices (COs) on operational and programme matters
– Organize technical workshops, inter-agency meetings, and events
– Support budget preparation, monitoring, and reporting on regional projects
– Manage incoming correspondence and draft responses
– Assist in travel arrangements and authorizations
Data & Research Assistance
– Maintain and update country, partner, and project files
– Track programme progress reports, work plans, and budgets
– Generate financial reports via Quantum and Quantum Plus
– Ensure compliance with UNFPA rules, regulations, and procedures
Administrative & Volunteer Engagement
– Promote UN Volunteerism, sharing field experiences and best practices
– Assist in new UN Volunteer onboarding
– Encourage the use of UNV Online Volunteering
Other Duties
– Support financial reporting and donor compliance
– Provide general administrative support as required
Eligibility & Requirements
Nationality: Candidates must be nationals or legal residents of the country of assignment.
Education:
Bachelor’s degree in Public Administration, Finance, Economics, International Development, or a related field.
Experience:
– At least 3 years of relevant experience in finance, administration, and programme coordination
– Previous experience in the UN system is an advantage
– Strong knowledge of UN financial systems (Quantum, PeopleSoft, ERP systems)
Skills & Competencies:
– Strong analytical and strategic thinking skills
– Excellent organizational and interpersonal skills
– Proficiency in Microsoft Office (Word, Excel, PowerPoint)
– Experience in gender equality and GBV-related programmes is a plus
– Ability to work under pressure and meet deadlines
Living Conditions & Benefits
Location: South Africa offers a vibrant, cosmopolitan lifestyle with access to world-class amenities, diverse cuisines, and cultural experiences. However, crime rates are high, requiring vigilance, particularly in urban areas. Security updates are regularly provided by UNDSS to ensure safety.
Benefits for UN Volunteers:
– Monthly Volunteer Living Allowance (VLA): R22,926.08
– One-time entry lump sum: $400 (at the start of assignment)
– Medical insurance, life cover, and annual leave
– Access to UN learning platforms
– One-time exit lump sum at the end of assignment
Application Deadline: 7 March 2025
